by Barry Crewse
Airfare dirt cheap just isn’t possible anymore you say? The truth is you can still save a bundle. The current economic conditions with gas prices and the shrinking dollar has has a huge effect on travel over the last 12 months but you can win the war against high prices!
The last year or so has seen dramatic changes in travel costs but it really is possible to secure yourself some great prices on cheap airfare if you know the tricks.
Just remember this rule. Getting airfare at dirt cheap prices only means one thing and that is that the price you paid for your ticket cost way less than the price the guy paid sitting next to you.
1. A Bump Off The Old Airfare Log!
This is an oldie but goody but getting harder to do these days. Basically what you are trying to do is give up your seat on an overbooked flight in order to secure another seat on a future flight at a comped rate.
Although not as feasible as it was in the past look for this opportunity to get better as airlines cut back. Less flights mean less seats so I expect this to become popular again soon.
Just remember that you must have a flexible schedule in order for this to work and you must get to the airlines well before the actual departure time in order to make it known you are willing to give up your seat. This technique can actually save you a ton of money once you get the hang of it.
2. Bucket Shop: The Only Way To fly!
Of course you have heard of Travelocity, Expedia, Hotwire and others and you have probably save lot’s of money using them but have you tried the Bucket Shop?
Never heard of it? Using this method can actually save you upwards of %50 or more. If you’ve ever book a flight online, you will find these types of aggregators just as easy to deal with.
Consolidators such as Bucket Shop but their tickets in big bulk blocks. Buying from them saves you a ton and also saves you the worry about restrictions or other airline rules when buying straight from the airlines.
It is quite common to find tickets for seats that are still available through consolidators that are no longer available through purchase from the carriers themselves.
Get creative and give these guys a try. Some of the best in the business is, of course, Bucket Shop, Travel Hub and Air Brokers just to name a few. There are more if you know where to look!
3. The Break Up Your Flight Method.
I know it might sound crazy but breaking up your flight just a little might save you a small wad of cash. Instead of buying that single trip ticket, “hop” your way to wherever it is you are going. If you can make your “hop” city a hub that the airlines must fly to anyway, the savings could be even more.
I know it may mean an extra stop but so what. You are looking for airfare dirt cheap right? There are ways and times they are a changing. You can save big bucks if you are willing to play the game.
4. What? Just Ship Your Luggage?
You betcha! Remember, the airlines are forced into trying to save some money anyway they can and that means slapping you for some pretty hefty charges for that luggage you are packing.
You may be surprised to find that by doing a little research with UPS, FedEx and others that you could save a small bundle by just shipping with them instead! You may just be able to cut that expense in half.
If you have a ton of bags you are carrying of just a large family in tow the savings will wow you! Another great perk? Shipping your luggage will guarantee they get there when you do! No such guarantee from any of the airlines I have ever flown with.
These are but just a few tricks of finding airfare dirt cheap. There are many more if you know where to look. Stop paying full price! It’s easier than you think.
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Posted: August 23rd, 2008 under Business.
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