Plane tickets: how to compare flights and pay less
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In short: compare several dates and airports, look at the price including baggage, beware of very short connections and separate tickets, and check who handles after-sales service before paying.
6 criteria to compare a flight
1. Dates
Moving your departure by a day or two often changes the price a lot. Use the price calendars on comparison sites and, if possible, avoid the start and end of school holidays.
2. Airports
Large cities often have several airports, and a regional airport near your final destination may be more practical. Add the cost and time of getting to the city centre.
3. Baggage
Many fares only include a small under-seat bag. Compare prices with the baggage you need: a cheaper ticket can end up costing more.
4. Stopovers
A direct flight is sometimes pricier but saves time and reduces risk. For a connection, leave enough margin, especially with a terminal change or security check.
5. Change conditions
Refundable, changeable with a fee, non-changeable: the price gap is often about flexibility. Choose according to how certain your dates are.
6. The seller
Airline or online agency: the price may differ, but so does the service if your flight changes or is cancelled.
Summary
| Criterion | Check | Common trap |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Total price with baggage and seat if needed | Base fare without checked bag |
| Stopover | Duration, terminal change | Connection too short |
| Ticket | Single ticket or separate tickets | No rebooking if delayed |
| Conditions | Changes, refund | Non-changeable fare picked by default |
| Airport | Distance and cost to the centre | Remote “low-cost” airport |
What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
Keep your boarding passes and all receipts. Depending on the route, you may be entitled to assistance and compensation. You can claim yourself, for free, from the airline; specialised services can also do it for you in exchange for a commission on the compensation obtained.
Frequently asked questions
Should I book with the airline or through a comparison site?
A comparison site helps you find the best option. For booking, the airline often provides simpler after-sales service if something changes; an online agency may offer a better price or combinations you won't find elsewhere. Check who you'll deal with in case of problems before paying.
What is a “self-transfer” flight?
Two separate tickets combined by an agency. If your first flight is late and you miss the second, the second airline doesn't have to rebook you. Some agencies offer a guarantee: read its terms.
My flight was delayed or cancelled: am I entitled to compensation?
For flights departing from the European Union, or arriving in the EU on an EU airline, EU passenger-rights rules may provide compensation depending on distance and length of delay, except in extraordinary circumstances. You can claim for free yourself from the airline. [TO CHECK: exact conditions on the official EU website]