How to find the best flight for any trip

I have traveled to over 50 countries world wide, so I am a seasoned traveler.  Below are items you need to research before planning your vacation.  One simple misstep can ruin a perfect trip.


Weather - Find out the average weather for the city your planning to visit during that time of year.  Go onto Google and type "#cityname# average weather"   One week before the trip, check the actual weather.  This will determine if you need an umbrella or sun screen.  Last thing you want is to visit a country during typhoon season.
Visas -  Some countries require you to purchase visas before hand.  Brazil and China are among the few that require you to spend a day at their embassy lining up for a visa.  On the contrary, some countries also allow you to purchase visa once you arrive. Be prepared. Go to Google and type in "#cityname# required visa".
Travel shots – Make sure you obtain proper travel shots before visiting certain countries.  To find out which shots you require, visit this website : http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

Research your vacation between Monday to Wednesday.  Most people are usually working on these days and normally don't book their vacations during this time. --  Travel companies know that.

Flight research
1) Go onto Orbitz and Expedia.  Enter your vacation destination and dates.  Select "non-stop" flights only.  If non-stop is not available, select the least amount of stops.
2) Sort by the "Fastest flight duration".This will give you an idea of the quickest possible time to get there.
Now sort the list by "Lowest price"  Go down the list to see the quickest and cheapest way to get there.
Do this on both Orbitz and Expedia.
3) Once you determine the flight you want, record the airline name and flight number.  Go directly onto the airline site and search for the exact same flight.  Sometimes you end up saving money be cutting out the middle man (Orbitz and Expedia).
4) When booking the flight, make sure you are guaranteed a seat.  If not, call the airline and make sure they guarantee you a seat.  A lot of the time airlines over book a flight hoping that some passengers may not show up.  Your seat is based on a first come first served basis.

Written by : Johnson Huynh