Technique #4: Become an Air Courier
Companies all over the world ship small packages overseas. Sending them without a warm body often means a lengthy stay for the package in a Customs holding facility. So these companies have discovered it's far more efficient to "hire" a courier who delivers the goods in his or her checked baggage allotment.
The pay for this "hire" is usually a greatly reduced airfare. But the deal comes with a catch that eliminates many would-be couriers: you must yield your entire baggage allotment to the company's shipping needs. That means you'll be traveling to, say, London with only a carry-on bag.
Schedules can be tricky, too. You'll be flying based on the shipper's needs, not your own.
But for those with flexible schedules and light luggage, the rewards can be astounding.
A few years ago, couriers would snag international flights to places like London for $100 USD or less. It's still possible, but increasingly unlikely to do so today. But if you find a reputable booking company and you have an open-ended schedule, there are still deals available.
Technique #5: Get "Bumped" for a Free Ticket
If your ticketed flight is overbooked, did you know the U.S. government requires the airline crew to ask for volunteers before anyone is "bumped" against their will from the flight?
That little piece of legal trivia can earn you a free flight on your next trip.
You see, overbooking is a common problem that is here to stay. Airlines would rather give away a few free tickets once in a while than risk empty seats.
It is not a given that being bumped is going to make you happy. Some airlines offer discounts for future flights, not free tickets. There are times and places when boarding the next flight will mean hours of waiting and much inconvenience.
Always find out exactly what is being offered and what alternative arrangements can be made prior to the bump. These details might even include a hotel room or a meal at the airline's expense--but you must ask and not assume.
