booking online air, first-timers ?????

[goofy4tink]

Okay. I'm just a wee bit nervous here. We're going to wdw in Aug.'03. The windows have opened up for booking our travel dates as far as airfare goes. I've always booked everything, except air, myself. I've used TA for the air part of my travels. Now I want to do this myself. It looks like I can get a better fare if I do it myself. Right?? So, are there any areas I should be careful about, anything I need to watch out for? Are any carriers better to work with than others? I'm thinking of using Delta only because my dh has started using them on business. Any tips, info, whatever, would be greatly appreciated. TIA.

 

[peg2001]

My only advice is to stick with websites that you are comfortable with. For example, the websites of the airlines themselves, and the travel websites that family and good friends have used successfully. I don't feel comfortable using obscure websites (www.cheaper-than-them.com).

Check several of the main travel websites and compare prices. In the end, you can usually get the best deal at the airline website itself.

I have bought tickets from the Delta website several times. It is simple and safe.

Good luck
Peggy

 

[cheshirekitty]

I used delta.com last time I wend to Disney. Got a great rate from Newark round trip - $130pp!!!

If you can't find low prices on the airlines websites you can try Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, and Orbitz.com. They are safe to use!

 

[Dopey Sharon]

I know how you feel. I booked our upcoming trip, on my own. I have always used a TA in the past, but this trip I did myself. I'm going to the airport with a printed out e-mail for airline tickets! I'm used to having the real thing in my hand! I hope all goes well...I'll let you know when we get back (if we get there! lol)

 

[disnurse]

I have used expedia.com for many years without any glitches. This week I discovered samsclub.com travel and they do an extensive search for all available flights, you do need to change times a few to get the best combo. I then took that flight info and booked directly thru delta and got about 1/2 off the going rate.

 

[peg2001]

Do you have to be a member of Sams Club to use their travel website?

Thanks for the tip.

Peggy

 

[disnurse]

yes you do but if you know anyone you could use thier id number if its just to check for flights. Their site checks many more airlines than any other online site I have ever tried before.

 

[Disneyolic]

We just bought tickets online from USAir. It was really simple. I, too, was a little apprehensive at first but am glad I did it that way. I did call a TA to see what kind of rates they had and then did my own research at the main airlines websites and found better rates. We haven't actually used the "tickets" yet - we go in November to Ft Myers, FL, but I don't think there will be a problem.

I can't wait until the window opens to start my research for airlines to Disney next Fall! Good luck to you...

 

[Mrs. Snowgod]

Hi, goofy4tink

I see you are from Central MA. If coming up to Manchester, NH is within your consideration, you might want to think about doing so to travel via Southwest. Perhaps they run out of Boston, I don't know, but Manchester is becoming a wonderful option. We are going on 10/20 through 10/25, and flying both trips non-stop on 3-hour flights. The RT cost each is around $173. Go right to the SWA website and start trying about 6-months out. When you see the price drop, keep checking. Book when you think you have the highest price you are willing to pay. I think I got the lowest fare about 2 to 2 1/2 months before my flight date.

Earlier this year (May) I helped a co-worker book a RT flight for 2 for $219!!! I wish I could have gotten that this time for DH & I, but alas, the specials are what they are.

We have flown SWA several times now, and though it is far from first-class, the cost and quick non-stop flights are worth while.

 

[Mrs. Snowgod]

Oh, forgot to add that Manchester has a really nice new parking garage, and I think the rates are about $8 to $12 per day, which I understand beats Boston parking prices significantly. Feel free to PM me if you wish with any specific questions.

 

[cindala]

I have booked our airfare on-line for the past 4 years, and so far so good! I use Delta only because they have the best rates for the days and times we need to travel. The websites are pretty easy to navigate, and all transactions are done on secure servers.

I would first look on Orbitz, Expedia, or Travelocity, and find the best rates. Then go directly to the airline that is showing the best rates, and find those flights. It is usually cheaper because you don't have to pay the $5 or $10 handling fee many of the search websites charge.

And don't worry about having a e-ticket. They work absolutely fine. Just print out all of your itinerary, and take it with you. Good luck!

 

[goofy4tink]

Thanks everyone. Hi Mrs. Snowgood. We haven't used Manchester yet. Have been using TF Green in RI. Like it very much. Maybe Manchester is in our future. When we use Logan, we try to do the shuttle in from the suburbs. It's much cheaper to park that way. Thanks again.