The current global economic recession has left many people struggling to pay the bills. It’s left others with the opportunity to score some real deals when it comes to traveling by air. While it is likely that most people’s minds are not turned toward thoughts of world travel to extravagant locations, there are some really great airfare deals out there if you know where to look. Taking the time to really sit down and research your destinations and the air carriers that offer service to them can save you hundreds in this buyer’s market.

Before you run off to talk with a travel agent, consider this: the lack of demand for seats on planes coupled with the relatively low price of fuel these days can lead to some great finds that don’t require an agent. Recently, while booking a flight to Paris, I was able to score a really cheap flight for less than $500. That’s right, everything from taxes to security fees to the flight itself for $500. At no other time have I seen better buys on flights to international destinations.

The Paris flight is one recent example of cheap airfare, but if you do your math, you can save no matter where you’re headed. Many times the flights directly to major destination cities are more expensive than say flights to cities located near these major destinations, but off the beaten path a little. Instead of flying to Paris, try flying to London or Lyon, and then catching a train to the City of Light. While it may consume more time, a friend of mine saved over $600 buy flying into London instead of Rome, and then paying only $80 for a flight from London to their final destination in Italy. It took him an extra day, but consider the amount you’re saving and do the math. Many times it’s worth hundreds a day to look for alternates.

The best times to book flights are far in advance and at the last minute. There exists a kind of bell curve that makes booking a month or so in advance very expensive, but allows people who have the ability and inclination to plan ahead three or four months to save hundreds. If you’re not concerned about a guaranteed flight, try looking for last minute deals. Many times an airline will have empty seats a day or two before the flight that they would rather fill at half price than take a complete loss on.

Try booking your flights from the air carrier’s website. I’ve found that 9 times out of 10 it is cheaper to do this than to go to any travel agency site. Unless of course you’re looking to purchase a whole package, which could include a rental car and hotel, in which case it is cheaper to book on the mega travel websites or with a travel agent. But for just flights, check out the company’s own websites. They will also often advertise last minute deals here instead of on the larger travel sites. I’ve saved about 20%-30% over other sites by booking directly with the carriers.