How to Pinch Pennies on Airfare Travel
- 1). Use a website that searches the Internet for the best airfare prices. One such website is Yahoo Farechase. This website compares the prices of many airlines to show you the best fares available for your chosen dates and times.
- 2). Avoid paying money for checked bags. The easiest way to do this is to only use carry-on luggage. Check with the airlines to find out their checked baggage policy. Southwest does not charge for the first or second bag. AirTran charges for the second bag.
- 3). Avoid paying for food. Bring food with you in your purse or carry-on. You can get through security with food. Most airlines now charge even on international flights for sandwiches and snacks.
- 4). Eat at home before your flight. You'll save the money you would have spent buying overpriced food at the airport.
- 5). Book your tickets online. Many airlines charge a fee to book over the phone. If you book online, you won't have to pay this extra fee.
- 6). Avoid change fees. Be certain of your travel dates before you book your tickets. If you change dates, you could pay $75 or more. Southwest Airlines is the only airline that doesn't charge this fee.
- 7). Be flexible with your travel dates and times. If you come home Monday instead of Sunday, the prices for your flight could be less. Visiting Grandma next weekend instead of this weekend could save even more.
- 8). Book your travel early to get the best prices. The lowest prices sell out as travel dates get closer. Some lower fares require at least 7 or 14 days advance booking.
- 9). Fly with the same airline as much as possible to build frequent flyer miles for free flights. If you fly often, using a frequent flyer card to build miles can get you a free flight.
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