With rapid advancements in information technology, one of the sectors which has experienced the maximum transformation is the ticketing segment of the travel business that has completely moved from physical over-the-counter transactions to the online mode. Online booking is beneficial to all parties concerned as air carriers do not have to pay any intermediary and receive payments directly from the customers. The savings they incur are passed off to customers as discounts. In terms of convenience, online booking is unmatched, as passengers can not only buy tickets from the comfort of their homes but can also place special meal/seat requests online.

However, you need to keep certain points in mind before making online reservations.

As a rule of thumb, try and book your ticket as early as possible to get the best price as airfares typically go up when the departure date draws near. Combo deals that offer air-tickets and hotel rooms as a bundled offer prove to be a lot cheaper. Keep in mind that the date and time of your flight also has a bearing on your ticket price. If the flight you choose arrives or departs after midnight, then you stand a higher chance of getting a cheaper fare. Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays would prove to be a lot cheaper as compared to weekends & Mondays. Using co-branded credit cards offered by airlines would be a good idea as you are not only entitled to special discounts but can also redeem the frequent flyer miles earned in your previous trips. Another wise idea would be to fly to lesser known airports located in close proximity of major airport hubs. Flights landing in these feeder airports typically cost less provided you have the time to travel from the feeder to the main airport.

It would be in your best interest to obtain comprehensive travel information about the destination you intend to visit. Keep a tab on the weather conditions in that area and pack your luggage accordingly else you might get some unpleasant surprises. The best way to get cheap tickets is that each time you fly is to keep yourself informed through email alerts that offer information about the latest deals and airfares being offered. Quite a few travel portals also offer fare alerts via email whenever there is a steep drop in airfares on your preferred routes.

Remember, finding the best airfare is all about timing. But before you begin searching for cheap airfares yourself find a good travel agent who is willing to go that extra mile for you. You will be glad you did!