How to Get a Last Minute Deal on Airfares

Picking the right day to travel can help keep fares low. (Photo: Airport Terminal Sign image by Diane Stamatelatos from Fotolia.com )

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Items you will need

• Computer with an Internet connection Flexible travel dates

How to Get a Great Last-Minute Fare

Step 1

Think of some flexible travel dates. Keep in mind the best days of the week to travel, which are usually the least popular. Often, the best days of the week to travel are Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Step 2

Access an all-encompassing travel website that will allow you to see the best deals for several different dates. Don t squeeze the trigger at the first deal you see; sometimes, the best deals can come at the very last minute -- within a day or two of travel.

Step 3

Mix and match your departure and arrival dates. For instance, if you call up a decent deal for departing on a Tuesday and returning on a Friday, change the return date to a Saturday. Sometimes, a one- or two-day difference in either the departure or the return can make a big difference in fares.

Before purchasing a ticket, try a general travel website, such as Expedia, Travelocity or Orbitz, for a last-minute package deal. All of these websites have last-minute sections that allow you to choose city pairs and travel dates for long weekends during the week you access the site, and during the following week. These will usually include hotel or rental car, and can offer especially good deals if you re traveling with more than one person.

Finally, book that fare! Because airfare changes rapidly, if you find a good deal, you ve got to go with it. It might not be there tomorrow.