Booking an airline ticket can seem complicated as there are so many websites, airlines and travel agents to choose from. Airfare prices also fluctuate constantly, making the booking process even more difficult. But with some research and flexibility, you can easily book your next airline ticket.
Booking an airline ticket online
Search for flights in advance. Booking your tickets in advance can help you get tickets at a lower price. The best time to book a domestic flight is between 112 and 21 days before departure to secure the lowest fare. 54 days before is considered the ideal time. However, even booking 54 days in advance does not guarantee the lowest fare.
If you are booking an international flight, book as early as possible, especially if your destination is smaller or has only one airport nearby.
If you are flying to a popular destination at a popular time, such as Florida during spring break, you should book as early as possible. Since this flight is popular, it is unlikely that the cost will be reduced.
Check airfare websites. Before you book, scan an airfare website such as Airfare Watch Dog. This is especially useful if your destination or travel dates are flexible so you can take advantage of any offers.
Airlines sometimes share sales with their customers through their websites or newsletters. You can subscribe to the newsletters of your top airlines or visit their sites to find deals.
Enter your travel details on the aggregator website. Visit an aggregator website that searches across multiple airlines, such as SkyScanner, Momondo or GoogleFlights, and enter your travel information. The website will be able to show you many flight options for the requested destination and date, which you can sort by price, airline, or travel duration.
Many aggregator sites will allow you to enter multiple destinations and search for flights for different dates. This will help you find the best deal if your travel is flexible.
If you have time, check out several aggregator websites. Some sites may advertise different prices, so it’s worth checking them out and making sure you’re getting the best deal.
Choose how many stops you want to make. Many flights, especially to remote locations, will require stops at airports. Sometimes this will require changing planes and going through security again. When looking at flights, keep in mind how many stops you are comfortable making. Also check how long and at what time of day the stops last.
You may find a cheaper flight if you are comfortable adding an extra stop. However, it is important to take into account whether the length and time of the stopover is worth the money you will save.
Go to the airline’s website. Once you find the best trip, select it on the aggregator site and go to the direct airline site to book your tickets. Some aggregators allow you to book tickets through their websites, but additional service fees may apply.
Choose your seat. Many airlines will allow you to choose your seat during the booking process. Make sure you select seats for all passengers for whom you are booking tickets. You can sit together if there is space for your party, whether you want an aisle, window or middle seat. You can also opt for seat upgrades, such as extra legroom, for an additional fee.
If your airline does not allow you to choose your seat at the time of booking, you can do so at check-in. If you have a specific seat or need to sit with your companions, for example if you are travelling with a child, call your airline to find out how you can make arrangements in advance.
Decide whether to make it a package deal or not. At the end of the booking process, your airline may offer additional services that you can book, such as hotels or car rentals. You can add them during the booking process or book them separately from your flight ticket.
Before you choose an additional service like a hotel stay or car rental, you should do some research online and make sure that your airline offers you a good deal.
You can usually buy tickets at a lower price if you stay at your destination on Saturday night.
Business travelers pay the most because they can’t stay over on Saturday night.