Rick Steves Recommends This Type Of Airplane Ticket To Save The Most Money

Traveling is a fantastic way to experience new cultures, try unique cuisines, and make memories that far outlast the dent in your wallet that comes with leaving your comfort zone. However, that doesn't mean budget-conscious travelers aren't always looking for ways to save, especially on flights. Travel aficionado Rick Steves offers advice on many aspects of traveling, including things like when to visit popular European countries for lower prices and fewer crowds. So when he recommends buying a certain type of airplane ticket that can save you money, it's not a bad idea to take note. More specifically, on Steves' list of thrifty travel tips, he explains that consolidator tickets for overseas flights have the potential to save you hundreds of dollars.

While purchasing airplane tickets from a consolidator could save you a ton of money on your next trip, there are some important things to know. First, these low-cost fares come from third-party sellers that buy airline tickets in bulk from airlines at wholesale prices. These companies can then resell the tickets at a discount compared to what airlines charge — often to travel agents but sometimes also directly to consumers.

Obviously, one of the greatest advantages of buying consolidator airplane tickets for overseas flights is the cost savings, which can be significant. According to FCM Travel, per Motley Fool Money, the average cost of an international flight from the U.S. was $1,217 in 2024. Saving even just a few hundred dollars on this big travel expense can mean more money for your trip to spend on things like dining, shopping, and experiences — as long as you don't make other unnecessary travel purchases that is.

Plus, working with a consolidator can provide you with booking options that aren't necessarily available through other channels while also simplifying the process of booking a flight. Another big benefit of working with a consolidator is having a wider range of options when it comes to selecting dates, airlines, and even the route you want to take for your flight.

Like most savings opportunities, though, there are disadvantages to Rick Steves' recommendation. For instance, a major drawback can be that there are typically no changes allowed, meaning you're stuck with the flight once it's booked. Plus, you can't rack up any frequent flyer miles with the purchase of a consolidator airfare because you're buying the ticket through a third-party seller.

It's also important to know that not all consolidators offer the same level of customer service that you might get when working directly with an airline. While some can provide top-notch service, others can drop the ball, leaving you confused about the terms and options of your ticket. Also, if you do have questions or problems, getting answers might be more challenging and take longer. This can be frustrating to travelers looking to make or change plans quickly, or even at the last minute. That said, Steves does offers a ton of other excellent travel tips to help you save, like not booking a hotel room for just one night. Ultimately, it's important to do your own research before deciding if buying a consolidator ticket is worth it.