Look at alternate airports although that s not a new suggestion anymore, it remains a valid one. A willingness to drive an extra hour or so at either end of your trip can cut hundreds of dollars off the cost of your air ticket. Alternate airports work in Europe as well as in the United States. If you want to go to London, you may find better deals to Gatwick or Stansted than Heathrow or even to airports as far out as Birmingham or Manchester. Similarly, the ability to adjust your departure date plus or minus a week gives you a big advantage when you re looking for a deal.
Flexibility is especially important for last minute deals.
More than ever, it s important to see if a low-fare line flies where you re headed, both within the United States and to Europe. Also check charters. If you live within easy driving distance of Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver, have your travel agent investigate one of the several big Canadian charter programs, which have plenty of flights to Europe this summer. High regular fares make the discount market especially attractive. As to hotels, try the usual discount programs through your travel agent, over the Internet or with a half-price directory.