Is it cheaper to buy an airplane ticket at the last minute at counter or booking ahead of time?
mel_ortega asked:
my travel is originating in okinawa, japan on a space available flight to seattle. so there’s no guarantee that i will make my connecting flight to tx. in the past i’ve always booked ahead of time and made my connecting flight. i’ve always bought nonrefundable tickets so if i didn’t make it there, i would lose the money. i don’t want to risk that again so i was wondering if buying a ticket in seattle to tx once i get there would be cheaper than buying ahead of time?
Riley
my travel is originating in okinawa, japan on a space available flight to seattle. so there’s no guarantee that i will make my connecting flight to tx. in the past i’ve always booked ahead of time and made my connecting flight. i’ve always bought nonrefundable tickets so if i didn’t make it there, i would lose the money. i don’t want to risk that again so i was wondering if buying a ticket in seattle to tx once i get there would be cheaper than buying ahead of time?
Riley
August 14th, 2008 at 6:14 pm
cheeper at last minute.
but very risky! there might not be any seats left or whatever.
August 18th, 2008 at 4:32 am
It’s usually cheaper to book ahead of time. Trying to book at the last minute is expensive and runs the risk of not getting the flight that you want.
August 19th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Ahead of time. Tickets at the counter are the *most* expensive, because they know that you are already in the airport and need to fly, so they don’t have any reason to give you a discount.
August 21st, 2008 at 9:55 am
Book ahead of time. It is much cheaper and safer.
August 24th, 2008 at 1:35 am
Book ahead of time. The earlier , the better. Also book online. It’s way cheaper!
August 24th, 2008 at 7:59 am
no it is cheaper to book ahead time the last minute is more money
August 25th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
It’s been my experience that it’s almost always cheaper to book ahead of time. The exception has been when the destination is not popular and the airline has trouble filling the seats.
No one can guarantee anything, but in general, advance planning and buying tickets ahead of time is usually the best way to go.
August 26th, 2008 at 12:00 am
Actually some travel agencies have insurance so if you miss you’ll get a refund. Check your local AAA to see as I’m certain they offer it. But I’ve found from personal experience it’s always less to purchase before hand and less risky.
August 27th, 2008 at 1:36 am
It’s always more expensive to buy a ticket at the counter because you are at the mercy of the airline. On top of that if you pay cash and it is a one way you are put on a high risk list and you will be scrutinized at security. If you have to buy a ticket at the counter use your credit card, it will save you time and grief.