Search travel sites online. Depending on where you want to go, certain airlines offer the best option to reach your destination city. Scan airfare lists. Find special airfares that might not be publicized by phone or in-person visits. In addition to airline websites, do not forget travel sites such as Orbitz, Expedia, Kayak and Hotwire. These sites compile fares from several sources and give you a chance to compare prices and times.
Call airlines directly. An airline's 800 reservation number allows you the chance to speak directly to a reservation agent. The agent will walk you through all the steps needed to secure a seat. Depending on the time of year and the competition between carriers, reservation agents might have access to seats just released at a lower cost than what is shown on airfare websites. Certain airlines, such as AirTran and Southwest, may have lower fares than others.
Visit a travel agent. The advent of websites such as Expedia and Orbitz give you the chance to do most of the legwork yourself, but if you are looking for a package deal then this is a recommended step. Travel agents know ways to search for fares that may not be easily available to the general public, and they can connect you to special packages for your city with airfare, hotel and rental car booked together.
Book directly at the airport. If you are in a hurry to get to a destination from St. Louis and time is of the essence, this might be your best step. Airlines at Lambert often have self-reservation kiosks available at ticket counters. You can make reservations and check bags all in a few convenient steps, and you leave the counter with ticket in hand ready to proceed to security screening.
