How to Compare Flights
By Chris Joseph
If you are like most people, you'd rather spend your money on golf and other fun activities during your golf vacation than on the airfare to get to your destination. By taking the time to compare flights, you can uncover the lowest possible fare for your trip. The Internet is filled with sites to help you in the process, and a bit of negotiating on your part may help as well.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Log on to an Internet search site (i.e., FareCompare.com) that allows you to compare flights. Enter your specific search criteria for flights originating from your airport of choice. Look for special deals, and sign up to receive free alerts about flights and future deals.
Use the travel guide on FareCompare.com to learn more about each airline and decide which offer is right for you. Determine which is more important: price or comfort/convenience.
Contact the airline directly that is offering the best flight and fare. The airline's website may offer additional savings if you book online. Also, call the airline to try to negotiate a lower price. This may be possible, if the flight is not filled to capacity.
Contact a travel agent to compare your findings. Travel agents may be able to provide you with a golf travel package to your destination that includes a reduced price on airfare. The end result may be cheaper, and it can save you the time of making all of the travel arrangements yourself.
Continue checking with your airline of choice even after you've made your reservation. If you booked your flight well in advance, check the website periodically to see if the price of your fare is now lower. Depending on the airline's exchange policy, you may be able to swap your ticket and save money. Also check for possible upgrades that may be available.
Tips & Warnings
Plan your flight as far in advance as possible. The fares are generally lower the further in advance you book. This also gives you additional time to compare.
About The Author
Chris Joseph is a freelance writer residing in Pennsylvania. He has written hundreds of articles for newspapers and the Internet on a variety of topics, including several on golf for GolfLink.com. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from York College of Pennsylvania.
