UK to Western USA - looking for flights help

x_missymoo_x

I am in the same boat - I'm looking to do a trip next August and, never having been to America before, I'm unsure of what would be classed as a cheap flight and the best times to book.

blindman

x_missymoo_x wrote: »

I am in the same boat - I'm looking to do a trip next August and, never having been to America before, I'm unsure of what would be classed as a cheap flight and the best times to book.

I've been to USA several times :cool: over the past 10 years but it's been a while since I actually paid the "proper" price:D

I've used FF miles and "mistake" prices the last few times:D

My previous earlier trips have been about £300-£400 max to the West coast and IMHO the price in June to West coast should be around £400 max.
But that was a few years back and things change a lot.

There are usually sales now (:cool:) for flights up to March 31st and then just after Xmas-Jan there are more sales for up to end of June/July.

August prices tend to be highest TBHO and anything around £500 to the West coast is (IMHO) considered good.

Where are you hoping to go?

x_missymoo_x

Thanks blindman!

We have got 2 weeks for our holiday and are planning to visit San Francisco, Napa (to visit relatives), drive the coastal road and stop somewhere along the way, stay in LA, then head to Vegas and Grand Canyon.

Have read a few of the threads here which have filled me with ideas, but feel at a loss of what to do at the moment as it seems I'm looking too far in advance!

blindman

x_missymoo_x wrote: »

as it seems I'm looking too far in advance!

For airfares you are too early to book to get a good price IMHO.

Usually cheaper flights are midweek dept and arival (Tues-Wed cheapest) and indirect (one change) can save money.
Look at "open Jaw" tickets to save back tracking and even USA airlines like Southwest and Jetblue to get you one way cheap tickets if needed.

Best bet is to decide your self what is a "reasonable" fare (my guess in August is £600 max) and when that come up, book it -but never check back later !

May be worth joining a FF mile plan as a trip to West Coast USA can get you miles for another European trip-but don't base your fare on this. When in economy always go for the cheapest-most convenient journey.

Look for my other posts as they usually link to the bigger USA West coast threads.:cool: