Cheap rate airfare tips

[Mandy]

I know some of you must have some great tips for the best airfare rates! So can we share them?

I am not leaving until may 22 so I still have some time. But so far this years airfare looks to be more expensive for me than in a long time!

What are your favorite tips and/ or tricks to getting the best deals?

[never2many]

I saved a fortune the last trip by using Southwest and booking fairly early. Dont know if that helps you?

[rustedduck]

Best site for researching airfare is matrix. They do not sell tickets, but you can go directly to carrier or travel agent with info.
Matrix only lists IATA carriers (ie Delta, united, american etc). Also check websites of non-IATA carriers like Southwest, Spirit.
Use the flexible dates button to see fares for 30 days. Link - http://matrix.itasoftware.com/#

[fargoman]

I agree with Rustedduck..I use matrix all the time..also vary the days of stay to see pricing difference..sometimes you can fly cheaper on 10 day flight and the money you save versus 7 day flight can pay the room difference..Tuesday and Wednesday seem best days on average

[rocknrollfarmer]

I agree with fargoman on alot of stuff.

[Mandy]

Thanks! I'll check out matrix!

[wha gwan]

The Matrix app is very useful for a phone or tablet. I find www.google.com/flights to be more helpful when using a computer (matrix/google is the same software). The other helpful search engine is www.fly.com