subject: Buying Last Minute Airline Tickets: Not Just At The Airport Anymore [print this page] Years ago, when you had a need that forced you to travel without much notice you went to the airport and sat around on stand by. This was the best way to get to where you wanted to go as soon as possible. With this came long lines and the possibility of not getting a seat, although you didn't have to spend as much as if you purchased tickets for the same flight earlier. Travel agencies weren't usually able to help you with obtaining these last minute airline tickets, and when they were able, you were charged a hefty fee for their service. Calling the airlines was a possibility, but they typically couldn't give you a flight the same day or the nest day- you had to wait until they had one available, and you paid out of the nose for it.
Today there are more options for you to purchase last minute airline tickets. Because of the invention of the internet and the incorporation of numerous sites that offer travel deals, you can find low cost airline tickets on your own. You can even find tickets for same day travel. Because there are hundreds, if not thousands, of sites out there, you should compare pricing on a few of them before making a purchase. The same fight pattern may cost a lot less on another site. Big names sites aren't always the cheapest, either- you can find websites of small travel companies that offer deep discounts on hotel stays, present opportunities to buy low cost airline tickets, and help you with getting car rentals. Up to the minute airfares are available on most travel sites, but if you find one that doesn't allow this flexibility, just go to another one!
Travel agencies aren't as popular as they once used to be, but they are definitely still a viable option. If travel planning stresses you out or you're attracted by the guarantees and assurance you get from someone else planning your trip, you probably already take advantage of the service they provide. If you like planning things yourself and don't mind a little uncertainty or risk in your plans, you may feel that paying the extra money to someone else just isn't worth it. You shouldn't discount this service, though- travel agents have special relationships with airlines and hotel chains and other travel companies and can present you opportunities you cannot acquire on your own, no matter how much time you spend searching yourself.
Booking your travel with the assistance of an agency or by yourself is the way to go. The hassle of going to the airport directly for buying last minute airline tickets is no longer necessary with today's technology. Take advantage of the innovations in travel booking- you'll waste less time, save more money and avoid undue stress.
