How To Book Lowest Air Fare Tickets

Booking a flight ticket can be challenging if you are unaware of the booking methods. If you are planning an upcoming trip and want to book a flight seamlessly then no need to look further.

All the details about various ways to book air fare tickets, and how you can get prepared for your trip are mentioned in this blog. Apart from that, you will get some additional tips to get the best deals on your tickets without any struggle.

Comparison of Two Methods for Booking Flight Tickets

Booking a flight ticket can become easy with some research and flexibility. The two prominent methods to book air flight tickets are elaborated below;

Booking an Airline Ticket Online

One of the easiest and most comfortable methods to book a flight ticket is the online method. With this method, you can purchase the ticket while sitting on your couch and sipping some hot tea.

However, if you are not aware of the procedure, then you might face some problems. But no worries. Below are some general methods following which you can get your ticket easily.

Look for flights in advance: Determine your travel dates, destinations, and preferred airlines, then proceed with the booking procedure. Always try to book your flight at least 112 or 21 days before the flight date to get the lowest price possible. I would advise you to book the ticket 54 days before the actual flight day to get the perfect deal.
Click through to the airline’s website: Visit the official website of your preferred airline and enter your details such as your departure and arrival cities, travel dates, the number of passengers, and any other relevant information requested.
Choose your seat: Once you are done, then you can select a seat as per your preference. However, not all airlines allow their passengers to select a seat during the booking time. In that case, you can select the seat during the check-in.
Choose additional services: During the booking process, you may have the option to select additional services, such as seat selection, extra baggage, travel insurance, or in-flight meals. Choose these options based on your preferences and needs.
Choose to make it a package deal or not: Now, you are coming to the end process. During this, your airline may ask you to add on some additional facilities. For instance, booking hotel rooms or opting for a car rental service.
However, before you proceed with these facilities, it is advisable to do a thorough research.
Request special accommodations: If you need some special accommodations such as service animal, pet, or wheelchair assistance, then you can add on that while completing your booking procedure. If you are comfortable sharing those details online, then you can directly connect with your airline authority.
Choose to add insurance or not: If you have any travel insurance, then you can add on that while booking a ticket to get some discount on the ticket value. However, before opting for this option, read all the details carefully to prevent any mishap.
Make Payment: Once you are done with the online flight booking procedure, you can proceed with the payment. But before you proceed with it, kindly cross-check all the details carefully to avoid any end-time problems.
Receive your confirmation and receipt: After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket. This serves as proof of your booking and contains important information such as your flight details, booking reference number, and instructions for check-in.

Note: Remember to check the specific policies of the airline regarding cancellations, changes, and refunds, as these can vary. If you encounter any difficulties or have specific requirements, you can also consider contacting the airline's customer service for assistance during the booking process.

Book an Airline Ticket Via Mobile Apps

Apart from the online booking method, you can also go for the mobile booking option. Select your desired airline and download their mobile application on your smartphone.

Once you are done with that, you can follow the below-given simple steps:

Download the App: Install the specific airlines’ app from the Google Play Store or app store to your phone or tab.
Create an Account: Once you download the app to your device, you can create an account. To create an account, you have to provide your personal information such as your name, mail ID, and your contact details. Some apps may allow you to skip this log-in step and proceed as a guest. But having an account can offer you some additional benefits like easy access to booking history and preferences.
Enter Travel Details: Once you are done with the login procedure, you will get access to select the option to book a new flight. Enter your travel details, including the departure and arrival airports, travel dates, and the number of passengers. Along with these, you can choose whether you want to book a one-way flight trip or a round-trip flight.
Select Flight: After that, you will a list of available flights based on your selected criteria on your phone screen. You can typically sort the results by price, departure time, or other filters. Review the options, including flight times, layovers, and fares, to find the most suitable choice for your needs.
Enter Passenger Details: Then, enter the asked details for each passenger, which include full name, date of birth, and additional information (if any). Ensure that the information matches the official identification documents you are going to use during travel.
Select Seat: After that, you can select the seats as per your preference. In case, if you are not allowed to select a seat during the air ticket booking time, then do not panic, some airlines allow that during the check-in time.
Add Additional Facilities: If you want to add any extra facility like baggage allowance, in-flight meals, or seat upgrades, the app will usually provide an option to do so at this stage. All you have to do is to check all the available options and select the ones you want.
Cross-check the details: Before finalizing the booking, carefully review all the details of your trip, including the flight itinerary, passenger information, and any extras you've added. Check for any spelling mistakes or errors. Pay attention to the fare conditions, cancellation policies, and any associated fees.
Proceed with Payment: Once you are satisfied with the booking details, proceed to the payment section. There will be various payment methods, for instance, you can proceed with your credit card, debit card, mobile wallet, or by airline’s loyalty points. You are free to select a payment method as per your preference. Once you select the method, you need to provide all the necessary information to complete the transaction securely.
Receive Confirmation Message: After you complete your payment, you will receive a confirmation of your flight booking. This confirmation will include your flight details, booking reference number, and any e-tickets or boarding passes if applicable. You may also receive a confirmation email or SMS.

Researching and Comparing Airlines

To get some great deals on your ticket, you can do some research and compare some major domestic airlines.

In the below-given section, I have briefed a few necessary details about some airlines. You can take these points into consideration before choosing an airline.

Finding airlines that fly to your destination

Finding a good airline is a big task, as it can hamper your trip in a positive or negative way. So, you must choose wisely. To make your task easier, I have mentioned three major airlines below;

Southwest Airlines

First, we have Southwest Airlines. This airline is one of the popular airlines as its policies are very flexible and you will get 2 free checked baggage irrespective of your flight ticket.

Southwest Airlines’ booking policy is very easy and convenient. In case of any kind of emergency, you can cancel your ticket easily.

This airline’s cancellation policy is very smooth and does not charge any additional fees from its passengers. Apart from that, if you fly with this airline, you can get choose a seat as per your own preference.

American Airlines

The second airline that we have is American Airlines. This airline is known as one of the safest airlines and offers excellent mileage redemption options.

To fly with American Airlines, you can book your flight ticket 331 days before the flight date. In case you want to cancel your refundable flight ticket, then this airline will not charge any penalties.

If you are flying with American Airlines then you can upgrade your seat without any problem.

United Airlines

United Airlines flies to over 200 destinations in the U.S. You can book your ticket online at least 330 days before the flight date. All the tickets can be canceled without any charges only within 24 hours of flight booking.

Due to some emergency, if you cancel your ticket and don't choose a new one right away then the airline will give you a flight credit that you can use within one year from the date of your original ticket booking.

How to Get Low Prices on Tickets?

The ticket prices may increase or decrease based on the airline’s terms and conditions. However, there are some loyalty rewards that you can get with the below-given airline;

Southwest Airlines

If you are a frequent flyer with Southwest Airlines, then you can get its loyalty points known as Rapid Reward Points.

How to Earn Rapid Reward Points and What are the Benefits?

Well, earning reward points is very simple. All you have to do is to fly with this airline. If you are a business ticket buyer, then you will get 12 points per dollar. If you are an Anytime ticket buyer, then you will receive 10 points per dollar. Similarly, if you buy a Wanna Get Away Plus ticket, then you will earn 8 points per dollar. And if you purchase a Wanna Get Away ticket, the airline will give you 6 points per dollar.

There are some other ways through which you can earn points. The ways are;

If you are short of reward points then you can separately buy the points. If you buy some points then you will get a few additional bonus points.
You can also earn these points by purchasing something from Southwest Airlines’ partners.

Benefits

There are several benefits of these points. Some are;

You can use the Southwest Rapid Reward Points to purchase your flight ticket, additional checked baggage, and other amenities.
These points do not have any expiry date.
You can fly with these points anytime and anywhere.

American Airlines

If you want to get some discount on your ticket booking price, then you can use the AAdvantage program points of American Airlines.

How to Earn Advantage Program Points?

By following the below-given points, you can earn AA points;

Fly frequently with American Airlines and earn AA points.
Get 5 points per dollar spent on this airline.
Fly with this airline’s partner and get AA points.
Book hotels and rent cars with these points and get additional points.

United Airlines

If you are planning to fly with United Airlines and want to get lower prices on tickets, then you can use MileagePlus Rewards.

What are the Ways to Earn MileagePlus Rewards?

Ways to earn MileagePlus Rewards are given below;

Every time you fly with United or United Express, you will get MileagePlus rewards credited to your account.
If you refer a friend then also you can get bonus miles rewards.
Apart from that, you can do shopping or dine with the partners of United Airlines and can get these loyalty points.

Preparing for Your Trip

Along with a seamless air fare tickets booking, I have added some additional tips for a hassle-free trip. So, without wasting any additional time, let’s check the details below;

Checking passport and visa requirements

Before you leave your house to reach the airport to board your flight, you must check your bag or purse carefully whether you have put your passport and visa documents or not.

Without these two documents, you will not be able to board your international flight. To avoid any kind of unforeseen situation, you must check these documents thoroughly.

Packing Tips

For a nice and comfortable journey, you must pack your essential items carefully. In the below-given points, I have mentioned some major tips for your convenience.

Make a checklist: Before you start packing, create a checklist of all the essential items you need to take with you. This will ensure you don't forget anything important.
Check baggage allowance: Familiarize yourself with the baggage restrictions and weight limits imposed by your airline. Pack accordingly to avoid excess baggage fees.
Travel-sized toiletries: To comply with carry-on liquid restrictions, transfer your toiletries into travel-sized containers or purchase travel-sized versions. Place them in a clear, resealable bag for easy inspection at security checkpoints.
Clothing considerations: Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack clothes suitable for the climate. Opt for versatile items that can be mixed and matched. Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save space and reduce wrinkles.
Essential documents: Keep all your travel documents in a secure and easily accessible place. This includes your passport, tickets, visas, identification, and any other necessary paperwork.
Electronic devices: Pack your electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, and cameras, in your carry-on bag to keep them safe. Don't forget to bring charging cables and adapters suitable for the destination's electrical outlets.
Medications and first aid: If you take prescription medications, ensure you have an ample supply for the duration of your trip. Carry them in their original packaging and keep them in your carry-on bag. Additionally, pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications or supplies.
Entertainment and comfort: Long flights can be tiresome, so bring items to keep yourself entertained and comfortable. This could include books, magazines, a travel pillow, noise-canceling headphones, or a portable charger for your electronic devices.
Secure valuable items: If you are traveling with some valuable items like jewelry, expensive electronics, or important documents then pack them in your carry-on bag rather than in your checked checked baggage for better security.
Luggage identification: Attach a unique luggage tag with your contact information to your checked and carry-on bags. This will help identify your bags in case they get misplaced.
Pack snacks: Airline meals may not always be to your liking or available, so pack some snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit to keep you fueled during the journey.
Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for the flight. Dress in layers to adjust to temperature changes in the cabin.

Arriving at the airport on time

If you have not completed your check-in procedure online and want to complete it at the airport then you must reach the airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight. And 3 hours before your international flight. By reaching on time you can avoid a missed flight situation.

Note: Always try to reach the airport at least 1 hour before the above-mentioned time, so that you can get some extra time to park your car, and to handle some uncertain situations.

Final Thought

By following all the above-mentioned steps and tips, you can book your air flight tickets without any struggle. Hopefully, this blog was helpful. If you like the article then do share it with others. Have a safe and sound trip.