We invented it. We even have a word for it: cheapflights-ology. If you want to go away, but don't want to spend a fortune, then follow these recommendations for a life of affordable travel.
- Shop around for the best deal and be patient. One company will never ever always have the cheapest price.
- Be flexible with your flight times. Try flying on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday rather than at weekends.
- Generally speaking you will get a cheaper fare by booking early.
- Remember that travel agents do not search all the low fare airlines.
- Be flexible, if possible, with your airports. Flying to or from a nearby or secondary airport can save you money, but remember to add in the cost of getting to the airport and getting from the airport when you land. Read our Airport Guides to find out how far airports are from their local towns.
- Always compare like with like: first, watch out for taxes, surcharges and fees. Secondly, some airlines are more comfortable (offering seat allocation, food and drinks) so price is not always the only factor. To compare the costs of airline's meals, seats and in-flight entertainment for the main airlines in the UK in our handy comparison tables.
There are some other considerations. The rise and rise of no-frills airlines has forced traditional airlines to be more competitive. There are advantages to travelling with a traditional carrier if you can find a bargain. These include assigned seating so you can avoid that scrum at the departure gates and you may get some kind of in-flight service too. If your flight is cancelled or delayed, the traditional airlines will be able to get you on another flight or help you with accommodation for the night. With the low-costs, you are mostly on your own.
More ways to find a cheap flight
Cheapflights.co.uk is an independent guide to the best deals from hundreds of flights companies including airlines (traditional and low-cost), consolidators and travel agents. Compare prices to your chosen destination and consider using a specialist for long-haul flights. For example, Canadian Affair specialises in flights to Canada. You will find these companies on destination pages (Alicante for example), or use our agents and operators' contact list.
Use our handpicked deals page to find a daily selection of the best flights, holidays and car hire available from the UK and Ireland.
Cheap Flight News is our travel news blog which provides a handy roundup of seat sales and special offers as well as airline news.
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Oonagh Shiel
© Cheapflights Ltd
Updated April 2009
