While air travel used to be one of the most expensive modes of transport a few decades ago, the era of expensive flight tickets is now gone. The development of modern, cheaper technology has given rise to various low-cost carriers (LCCs) that emphasize on providing affordable options to flyers. While most LCCs fly domestically, there are some that offer cheap international flights to travelers. Though most people can now afford to travel by air, flyers are continuously on the lookout to save more money. The following are a few things that travelers can do to ensure that they get the best deals available.
Book Tickets Early
It is no secret that the price of flight tickets rise as the departure date comes close. Especially during peak travel periods, people could be facing situations when they have to pay a price that is significantly higher than the usual amount charged for the same ticket. To avoid such circumstances, flyers should book their ticket at least two to three weeks before the domestic flight, and three to six months in the case of international.
Buy Tickets as Late as Possible
People, who have lost the opportunity to book flights early, could delay booking the flight as sometimes the prices go down near the departure date. This scenario is perfect for travelers who are flexible with their itinerary and can adjust their plans according to the deals in the market. Such offers can easily be found on the web pages of airlines or various portals of online travel agencies (OTAs). Such portals also offer cheap international flights to various destinations of the world.
Use Frequent Flyer Points
Almost all carriers, whether it is Air India, United Airlines or Emirates, have frequent flyer programmes. People who travel often can register themselves in a frequent flyer programme and start accumulating points from their first flight. These air miles can be used for availing different benefits that are especially tailor-made for members only. While some airlines give extra baggage allowance to their frequent flyers, a few even provide priority check-in and baggage handling as well as lounge access and award tickets.
Know Various Offers
Flyers can also avail cheap airfares while booking flights with OTAs. For instance, Yatra.com is currently offering an eCash of up to 25 per cent on booking international flights. This cashback or credit can be utilised by a flyer while buying another flight tickets with the portal. The website is also offering other discounts like a 100 per cent eCash on bus booking and buying flight tickets with its partner banks.
Check the Hidden Costs
Though various airlines offer cheap international flights, there are many hidden costs that a flyer should be aware of at the time of booking. Fees for carry-on bags, checked bags and advanced seat assignments/selection can sometimes cause the ticket total to go up. Such situations can be avoided by checking or booking all the required amenities in advance. Along with this, being aware of fuel surcharges, carbon tax and airport fees will always ensure better calculation of expenditure at passenger level.
Buy Packages
Almost all travel agencies or OTAs offer special packages that include flight tickets and hotel stays in their itinerary. By buying such packages, flyers not only get cheaper deals, but they can also ensure the availability of accommodation for a hassle-free journey.
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