Video:Tips for Calling Airlines to Book Flights

Transcript:Tips for Calling Airlines to Book Flights

Hey guys, Greyson Ferguson here with About.com. Today we are going to discuss calling an airline in order to book a flight.

Be Prepared When Calling Airlines to Book Flights

Before you call the airline, you need a few important documents on hand. First, you need to know your desired travel dates. You also need to have a state-issued ID, and for international flights, a passport. Your passport number is required when booking these flights. Have your credit card on hand also in order to purchase the flights.

If at all possible, be flexible with your arrival time and even date. If you are willing to move the time and day around, you are most likely going to receive a cheaper ticket. This is because some days of the week are actually cheaper than others to fly. Generally this is mid-week, as most flying takes place over the weekends, but it is not always the case.

Call Airlines in the Morning to Book Flights

Try to call the airline in the morning. This ensure you have plenty of time to complete your transaction and purchase the ticket. The airline should also be less busy at this time.

Select the kind of seat you want. This is either an aisle or window seat. The window seat allows you to watch outside the plane, but you are left to crawl over the passenger next to you when you need to go to the bathroom. On the other hand, with an aisle seat you are packed in against the plane wall, but you must allow others to squeeze past you when leaving their seat.

Ask About Layovers When Calling Airlines to Book Flights

When buying the flight, make sure to ask where the flights stop over at, and how long the layover is. You may opt for a different flight if you find you have a long layover between flights. Although it is generally good to have at least an hour in between flights, just in case of a delay, if you see your layover is several hours long, you can ask if there is a sooner flight out, or one with a shorter wait period.

Well, there you have it. To learn more, visit us on the web at About.com.