How to Find Last-Minute Flight Deals
- 1). Research online possibilities. Look online for low-budget, last-minute flight deals. Consolidators make it possible for the ordinary traveler to find many options. For example, Kayak.com offers access to a large number of airline websites with a single site. Users can put in information about their desired destinations, preferred airports and length of stay. Kayak gathers data from other sites and will offer flights to you. Some sites may offer last-minute deals to those who can fill empty seats in a short period of time.
- 2). Be very flexible. If you're flying last-minute and want a deal, flexibility is key. Be prepared to take flights that leave very early in the morning or late in the day. High-budget passengers may have to settle for business or economy class. Budget travelers may have to accept a middle seat if that's the only one left.
- 3). Travel standby. Standby travelers arrive at an airport with no guarantee of a reserved seat. They are allowed access to a flight in the event of last-minute cancellations and seats that would otherwise go unfilled. In return for accepting this last-minute uncertainty, passengers can save on airfare. A standby flight can be ideal if you want to travel last-minute but have no need to arrive by a specific time or date.
- 4). Work with a travel agent. Even in the age of the Internet, a good travel agent can be a great help. An agent can offer access to less-publicized deals and help you search for flights that fit your needs. Some airlines will work directly with travel agents, who can help them fill otherwise empty seats. The agents can then pass the savings on to you.
- 5). Fly into less-traveled airports. A flight to an airport that's less popular or convenient can help you save money. Many large cities have major and minor airports. A minor airport may be situated slightly less close to your intended destination. Many often have good transportation connections to major cities.
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