Tips on Purchasing an Airplane Ticket

written on May 30th, 2013 by Jean Del Mar

Are you like the many folks having difficulty searching for airline fares? Do you wonder when is the best time to buy a ticket to get a good rate? Confused by the many choices of airlines? Rejoice! I’m here to give you helpful tips on your ticket purchase.

1.    Book in advance to get cheaper fare.

The secret to availing the cheapest fare is to book early. If you travel during the off peak season, you are more likely to get a cheaper fare. Likewise, if your trip falls on the peak season, the earlier you book, the better.

Be on the lookout for airline promos! The airlines offer plenty of promos, but you need to act fast. Seats are almost always limited and are on a first come first serve basis. Also take note of the restrictions that come with the promo tickets. These tickets tend to be the one with the most penalties. You don’t want to end up paying more on penalties than the ticket itself.

2.    Plan ahead. Get the flight dates right.

You would be surprised how many people forget to do this, especially when they are trying to catch a promo fare. You don’t want to miss a great affordable price just because you haven’t sorted out when you can take the trip.

When you are planning to book/buy a plane ticket, flight details are needed. (If you aren’t sure yet on the exact details and you are inquiring with a travel agency, you can provide tentative details.)

You must answer these important questions:

• Where is your destination? (Be specific. Don’t tell the ticketing agent that you want to go to Canada. Canada is big and has several airports. You might land in Toronto, but your destination is Vancouver. That’s a 4-5 day drive.)
• When are you departing?
• When are you coming back? (These dates are obviously important, but more so when you realize that there are rebooking fees whenever dates are changed.)

Here are a few more questions to think about:

• What is your preferred airline?
• Do you prefer to fly economy class, business class or first class?
• Given the choice, which to you prefer a direct flight, non-stop flight or connecting flight?
• Do you have any special needs? (This includes special meal requests, seat requests, and/or special assistance if passenger is disabled or pregnant)

3.    Provide complete information

Make sure all the details are correct and accurate. Double check the spelling!

• Complete name (ticket name must match passport name – especially for international flights)
• Date of birth (required for senior citizens or infants)
• Contact numbers (contacts in your origin and destination)
• Email address
• Home/hotel address and contact person (if necessary)

4.    Present necessary documents (if needed)

Travel documents are necessary for international travel and must be presented to the immigration for exit of origin and entry for destination. It is advisable to present these documents upon purchasing the plane ticket for advance checking and proper guidance and instructions. These travel documents include:

• Passport (at least 6 months valid from the date of departure)
• Visa (if necessary; check validity)
• Overseas Employment Certificate (for overseas workers)
• DSWD clearance (for minors travelling without a parent)
• Reduced Travel Tax Certificate

5.    Know your ticket restrictions.

Every plane ticket has its own restrictions. Cheaper tickets tend to have more restrictions. Be aware of the restrictions to avoid surprise charges.

The good travel agents remind the passenger of their ticket conditions. Hence, it is best to ask the ticketing agent regarding your ticket limitations.

Here are some questions you might like to clarify with your ticketing agent:

• How much is my allowable baggage? (carry-on and check-in)
• How much will I pay if I have excess baggage?
• Is my ticket refundable?
• Can I rebook my ticket?
• Are there any additional payments during check-in? (toll fee, etc.)

There are plenty of advantages for booking through the internet. But if you want to be able to have someone to talk to in case of emergency or if you need any clarification, seek the assistance of a good and reputable travel agent. If ever there is a problem, you can put the blame on them. Just kidding!

I hope these tips will help you – especially for the first-time flyers.

Have a safe trip and enjoy your flight!