Research your destination. Every country has a peak tourist season, during which time airfare will rise. Find out when your travel destination is most littered with visitors, and avoid booking during that time frame. By booking during an off-peak time, your international flight migh be significantly cheaper.
Agree to stops on your travel itinerary. Long haul flights are generally cheaper if you're willing to make at least one stop and transfer planes. While this will add to your journey time, it will help your pocketbook.
Buy your airfare at least several months in advance. According to Independent Traveler, international flights are best booked about three to six months in advance of your departure date. Wait too long, and finding a discount rate will become increasingly difficult, unless you happen across a last-minute deal.
Shop around. Compare at least three or four rates to make sure you are really getting the best deal. Research student rates, military discounts and any other special circumstance discounts that might apply to you. Many airlines don't widely advertise such discounts but will apply them if you specifically inquire.
Look for discount airlines once you get to your international continent. For example, if you're going to Europe, fly on a major airline to Heathrow Airport outside of London, then use a cheaper airline such as Ryan Air (ryanair.com) or Easy Jet (easyjet.com) to your final destination. While you will have to forgo amenities such as a reserved seat number at the time of booking, discount airlines will help you save cash once you're abroad.
