Booking Flights Like a Pro

18 items · Travel · Easy difficulty · 30 min

Book flights smarter: compare fares, secure seats, and avoid surprise fees.

• Set flexible travel dates

  Search +/- 3 days or midweek to find lower fares

• Compare fares across multiple sites
• Use Google Flights for a broad search

  Use the calendar view to spot the cheapest days

• Set price alerts on Kayak or Skyscanner

  Enable email or app alerts for price drops

• Check final price on the airline website

  Confirm taxes, fees, and seat/baggage add-ons before booking

• Search in private or clear cookies

  Use incognito to avoid dynamic price bumps

• Check baggage policy and fees

  Note size, weight limits and fees for carry and checked bags

• Verify fare rules and change/cancel policy

  Confirm change fees, refundability, and rebooking rules

• Match traveler names to passport

  Enter full legal names exactly as shown on passports

• Check passport expiry and visa requirements

  Confirm passport validity and any required visas for destinations

• Choose seats and request upgrades if needed

  Pick seats early to avoid fees or secure extra legroom

• Add travel insurance if required

  Compare cover for cancellations, medical, and baggage

• Apply loyalty numbers and promo codes

  Enter frequent flyer and promo codes before payment

• Select payment method and check foreign transaction fees

  Use cards without FX fees or enable preferred payment options

• Review full itinerary and total price before purchase

  Check dates, times, stopovers, airport codes, and totals

• Save confirmation and e-ticket copies

  Download PDFs, screenshot confirmation, and email to yourself

• Add flight details to your calendar and travel app

  Include confirmation number and check-in window

• Set up flight status alerts

  Enable airline or app alerts for gate changes and delays

Printed from TickYouOff — the interactive version tracks your progress and can be shared with others.