Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Airfare Dirt Cheap. Yes! It is still possible!

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!

Although things have changed dramatically over the last year or so, it is still possible to get really good prices on airfare if you know how to do it.

And remember, airfare dirt cheap only means getting a heck of a lot better deal than the person sitting next to you got.

1. A Bump Off The Old Airfare Log!

This method had become less of an option over the years as fewer flights were completely booked but these days as the airlines cut flights and personell look for this to become more popular as less flights mean less seats.

This technique has lost it's popularity over the years due to the sheer number of flights the airlines had running but I foresee a great comeback in the near future as less flights lead to more overbooking.

You must be able to have a somewhat flexible schedule and get to the airlines well before your departure time to let the staff know you will bump if the flight is overbooked. Once you get the hang of how this technique works be prepared to save some real money!

2. Let's Go Bucket Shop!

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?

It is possible to save up to %50 or more using this method. Even better is that these aggregators are just as easy to deal with as using the internet to book your flights.

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.

They can still be selling airfare dirt cheap long after the airlines have sold all their tickets for a particular flight.

Some of the best consolidators are of course Bucket Shop, Air Brokers and Travel Hub to name a few. Get creative with these guys and save a bundle!

3. Break Up Your Flight And Save Some Cash!

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. As For Your Luggage? Ship it!

If you plan your trip correctly you can save big bucks by just shipping your luggage UPS. The airlines are charging more and more these days for your luggage and that doesn't guarantee it will even get there.

You may find that buy shipping with carriers such as UPS you may cut the expense in half. Check around with other carriers as well such as FedEx and even the U.S. Postal Service. You may be surprised.

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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