Emergencies happen when you least expect them, and sometimes you need to fly home or out of state to be there for family and friends. In these situations you don't have to break the bank on a plane ticket to get there in a hurry. Instead, take advantage of online tools or specials with airlines to assure you can be at your family's side. Some discounts are not immediate, but airlines will work with you.
Bid on last-minute flights on travel search engines like Priceline, Hotwire or Kayak. If bidding is not available, airlines also book last-minute deals through these sites for a set rate. Often when a flight doesn't book you can purchase a seat for a high discount.
Fly standby. If you are in a hurry, it's not a guaranteed flight. However, standby flights can save you money because airlines want to fill the plane up.
Purchase tickets using bereavement airfare. With proof of death (copy of death certificate) airlines offer discounted airfare to passengers traveling for a funeral. Book your ticket, provide the proof and you will receive a refund for the discount.
