This was published 8 years ago
Airline early bird airfare tips: How to take advantage of cheap flight deals
By Julietta Jameson
Qantas' early bird sale is on now.
UP IN THE AIR
Airline early bird sales are on, with premium carriers offering discount fares on a plethora of routes. But if you're not sure of your 2016 travel plans, how can you take advantage of the sales?
The short answer, is to plan around the available travel dates, if you really want to nail a bargain. But don't rush into anything you might regret.
Get to Europe for less: Geiranger fjord, Norway.
As Flight Centre's head of leisure travel Tom Walley says, "The good news with early bird fares is that most are valid for sale into October and November, so you still have time to think about what you want to do.
"Cathay Pacific has a particularly good deal with its sale fares valid for sale until December 31, for travel well into November 2016."
Still not able to commit? Walley says that doesn't mean missing out altogether.
"If you're still unsure of your exact travel plans, look for a flexible fare which will allow a date change to the ticket. There will be a small cost involved in adjusting your dates but it does give you the freedom to modify your booking."
Adds Richard Jones, Cathay Pacific's Australian sales and marketing manager, "If you're unsure about your travel dates, a good option is to book via your preferred travel agent or directly via our reservations team, as you can make changes to your booking, including your travel dates, up until the ticket is issued.
"Cathay Pacific's early bird Fares are also available until the end of the year, which gives you plenty of time to think about it."
Emirates and Qantas have recently announced their early bird sale.
Qantas has deals going on hundreds of international destinations across Britain and UK/Europe, North and South America South America and South Africa, until November 11.
With return economy flights to London priced from $1786, the airline's advice is simple: "Book early," says a spokesperson.
See also: Traveller's hand-picked best deals of the week
Gebicki tip
Big cities are not the cheapest places to stay, but they're packed with cultural institutions with free admission.
London's British Museum, the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, the Pantheon in Rome and Victor Hugo's house in Paris, for instance, are all free. Add a park and a stroll and you've got an inexpensive day out.
- MICHAEL GEBICKI
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