Search the search engines. It may seem obvious, but fare comparison is the only way to know whether you are getting a deal. While some travel search websites may have better deals with one airline or in one region, another search engine could come out on top on a different route.
Fly with small carriers. Often, low-budget or discount airlines will not show up on a fare comparison website. Check the websites of Southwest, AirTran, Frontier or JetBlue, which offer lower fares than mainstream carriers in the United States. In Europe, budget carriers such as Ryan Air and Easy Jet offer frequent service for highly reduced rates. However, they do charge for checked luggage, meals and most other extra services.
Choose the "Flexible Dates" option when searching for your flights. If you can fly midweek or at off-peak times, you often can find much better prices. Leaving a day earlier or later sometimes can mean a dramatic drop in the price.
Include nearby airports in your search criteria. Because different airports are hubs for different airlines, you may find the prices change when you are flying from Newark Liberty International Airport rather than John F. Kennedy International Airport, or vice versa.
Book your ticket at least 21 days in advance. You will find more options for fare classes and prices when booking well ahead of time. Sometimes, airlines offer last-minute travel deals to those willing to take the risk and wait, but if you're not in the position to wait, booking ahead of time gives you a much better chance of finding the best fare.
