Tips for obtaining cheap flights:-

Scheduled, Charter or Low Cost 'No Frills' -
Flight prices can vary enormously due to the laws of supply and demand so we show scheduled, charter and 'no frills' flights to find the best airfares available. Never assume that a 'no frills' or charter flight will offer the best value.

Book Early - Whilst we have all heard of people obtaining a real last minute bargain the general rule with airline tickets is the earlier you book the larger the saving. This is almost always the case with low cost airlines where there may only be a handful of seats available on each flight at the advertised bargain fare.

Be Flexible - If possible try to travel on a Tuesday or Wednesday as these are normally the least busy days for airlines. If you need to fly on other days try adjusting your departure time as an early or late departure can often make a major difference to cost.

Stay over a Saturday -
Fly midweek and stay at least one Saturday to take advantage of leisure rate fares.

Indirect Flights - Non stop flights are the most convenient and therefore the most popular. If you are prepared to make a connecting flight on route you will often make a large saving although your travel time will of course increase. Make sure the connecting flight is with the same airline to avoid problems with missed flights if you experience delays.

Low Cost no frill budget Carriers -
Can offer great deals but make sure you check the return price including all taxes and charges which are often not included in the advertised price. Also ensure you are flying from/to a suitable airport. The low cost carriers often fly into small airports which may be a considerable distance from your destination.

Charter Flights -
If you are travelling to a popular holiday destination it is worth checking the charter flight prices. These are the flights used by package holiday companies and can offer large savings. To take advantage of a charter flight you normally have to be away for 7, 14 or 21 nights so they are not normally suitable for business travel or weekend breaks.

Consider a Package Holiday -
If you are booking a flight and hotel for your holiday consider booking a package as this can often work out cheaper and provide you with better financial protection through ABTA and ATOL. Scheduled and 'no frills' carriers are not required to hold an ATOL bond.

Dont always book direct with the airline -
If you book directly with the airline you will normally pay the full published fare, although they do sometimes have special offers. Online flight reservation specialists negotiate special rates with the airlines due to the volume of business they do and pass discounts on to the traveller. With the budget airlines you will normally have to book direct with the airline.

Check Total Cost - UK law states that prices must include taxes, fees and charges. Although the majority of websites comply with the law not all do so check for any hidden extras.

Book Online - To encourage online bookings which are most cost effective for the airlines almost all now offer discounts when you make your reservation online rather than by phone or through a high street travel agent.

Pay by Debit Card - Due to the low margins on airline tickets most companies make a surcharge when you pay by credit card to cover their costs. This is typically between 1% and 4% of the total cost but can be avoided by using your debit card.

Food & Drinks - If using a low cost airline remember you will have to budget for any onboard drinks and food as these are not normally complimentary.

Departure Airport - Try to fly from the most convenient airport from your home or business. Any savings made by departing from a different airport can be quickly eroded by travel costs and possibly an overnight hotel stay pre and post departure.

If you are confused by the difference between scheduled, charter and no frills budget airlines click here.