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You know where you are and you know where you want to be, so the next step is to determine which carrier you will use and to book a flight.

The Internet enables an individual to search through several opportunities and to book flights to destinations around the world, according to their individual needs and requirements.

1. A simple search using the phrase 'Flights' will lead to a list of thousands of websites offering discounts and 'cheap' flights. You know there are opportunities but choosing which website to look at appears daunting.

Two options prevail:

A. Enter your departure and destination, followed by the word flight, i.e 'New York to Heathrow flight' will limit available sources for you to scour through.

B. Begin by looking at specific, popular websites:

* Airline websites - American Airlines, British Airways, EasyJet.

* Comparison Websites - These offer the ability to search through several providers to list all availability.

Examples of comparison sites:

* www.travelsupermarket.com

* www.flightsdirect.com

* www.cheapflights.co.uk

* www.lastminute.com

* www.lonelyplanet.com

* www.expedia.com or www.expedia.co.uk

* www.travelocity.com

* www.orbitz.com

* www.tripadvisor.com

* www.travelzoo.com

The advantages with the comparison website is the ability to search for accommodation, tours and reviews in addition to flights. The disadvantage is that flights booked through travel agents or 'middle party' companies will charge a commission, compared to if you booked direct with the airline.

A simple, usually free, subscription to these websites can allow you to receive updates through email regarding any offers available.

2. Understand that the day you travel on can influence the cost of your ticket. Certain days of the week can prove more expensive. Weekdays tend to be cheaper than the weekends when the majority travel.

3. Time of day. Booking flights that are either early morning or late at night can also be cheaper.

4. Certain discounts are available depending on age and occupation. Military, students and senior citizens may qualify for an additional discount, so be prepared to make the information available to the airline when booking a flight.

5. Be prepared to allow a certain flexibility in your airport. Options of flying to a less well known airport instead on the main internationals can provide a discount.

6. Try to book early for the best available price. If needed certain websites like www.lastminute.com can provide options for those last minute needs, but these tend to be higher priced.

7. Read through the small print. Be aware of the providers terms and conditions, with regards to extras, cancellation fees and refunds.

8. Check to see if you qualify for extras such as air-miles. Some credit cards offer this facility as an added benefit.

In principle the advise is to search carefully and be aware of your own particular requirements before committing yourself. The cheapest option is not always the best one for you.

Learn more about this author, James Mockridge..
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