Some of the very things that make cheap airfare possible can actually cause you a few headaches. To begin with, you need to do some research. Establishing a baseline ticket cost, by contacting the major airlines, will help immensely when you begin comparison-shopping, but it is time consuming, and requires you to keep careful records.
Internet sites that provide inexpensive flying deals, have made air travel not only more affordable, but also more accessible for a lot of people. Despite this, there are some definite downsides. Not knowing where to start is one headache. There are numerous sites out there selling cheap tickets. Do not assume the stipulations that govern one, will apply to the others. In order to find the travel site that best suits your needs you will probably have to do some searching. Again, this can be a time-consuming process. Jumping from place to place, searching out a bargain, means you are going to spend a lot of time at your computer, and it does not guarantee you will find the best airfare.
Keep in mind that some cheap fare sites will not confirm your airline or flight times, until after you have committed to purchasing a ticket. If you have the luxury of flexibility, you may not find this challenging.
If you do not, it could be a problem. One way you save on the cost of a flight is by choosing an alternate airport. However, a few sites require that you do so. You need to weigh in some factors to determine if such a move really does save money. Keep in mind the time factor, as well as the cost of a taxi or car rental. Also, consider weather conditions and the lay of the land. Unexpected detours, getting lost or dealing with icy conditions, can make that savings disappear fast.
Most flights purchased through a cheap-fare site, are non-refundable. You can reduce the cost of your ticket by booking the flight early, but that also means you are more vulnerable to unexpected changes in plans. If this happens, you may have to eat the cost of that 'cheap' ticket, not to mention the fee most sites will charge for a cancellation.
More often than not, travel deals on low-cost sites have some restrictions. You may not be able to use your frequent flyer miles or a stand-by option. It is important to inform yourself before committing your money, but sometimes, finding all the facts you need takes time and patience. Information on restrictions is available, but it is sometimes hidden in different niches throughout the website, making it very difficult to find.
Finally, keep in mind that when you go online to book that 'cheap fare' ticket, you are not going to deal with a real person. If you do run into problems or have questions that need answering, you are definitely on your own.
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for South Africa's leading Flight comparison & Booking portal, to book a flight, simply visit our website at: http://www.saflights.co.za
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