Airlines also fill unused inventory by selling seats at discounts to a wholesaler, which will pass some of its savings to consumers. Discounts can vary by route, season and flight time, among other factors. Generally you will save the most from consolidators if you are looking for a seat at the last minute or in high season. That discount comes at a price: Tickets often can't be returned, changed or exchanged, and in some cases you won't get frequent-flier miles. Often you can find consolidators' ads in newspaper travel sections.
To make sure you are dealing with a reputable company, check if the company is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents, which lists members at
ASTA
