Saving on Air Ticket

Recently we just bought air tickets to Malaysia and Bali; and yes, we've definitely saved on our air tickets! We've saved AUD $700 on the tickets from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur compared to normal retail ticket price. That's AUD $700 we can spend on shopping and dining while we're at our destination. How did we do it you ask?

Answer: Budget airline.

Malaysia airlines: Approximately $2200 for 2 including tax.

Airasia X (Malaysian own budget airline): Approximately $1500 for 2 including tax.

Other tips on saving on air tickets are:

1. Use websites that let you compare ticket prices such as Webjet. There are plenty of others too.
2. Search budget airlines online - they are sometimes not listed in the comparison websites.
3. Wait for sale or special offer. There are always special offers and sale, budget airlines or retail airlines. Subscribe to their newsletters so that you don't miss out on those great deals! I have bought a domestic $1 ticket + airport tax and service charges one-way ticket few years back during a promotion by one of the budget airlines.

Note:

1. If taking budget airlines, make sure you read the terms and conditions. Some airlines will not replace your ticket if there are last minute cancellation or will not let you board if you check in late (very strict rules). We always check in online and get to the airport early.
2. We also make sure we leave plenty of time for transits (eg. many hours) if we travel internationally on budget airlines. (Somehow budget airlines are more prone to delays and do not offer luggage transfer for connecting flights - you will need to collect your luggages and recheck in.)
3. In addition, make sure you buy enough check-in luggage allowance and pre-book meals and drinks onboard as everything is 'optional' on a budget airline.
4. Budget airlines may not be suitable for people with mobility problems as many budget airlines do not hire ramps to the plane and you may have to walk a long distance including walking up stairs to board the plane - always check with the airlines regarding these issues.