How to Fly for Free

Aching for an exotic vacation but short on funds? Drastically discounted or free fares can be yours if you're willing to pack light, travel solo and work for a courier. Complete a few simple tasks, save yourself hundreds of dollars--and collect frequent-flier miles to boot!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide where and when you'd like to go, but be sure to choose a destination outside of North America. There are no courier flights within North America.
2. Find a courier company by looking in the Yellow Pages under "Air Courier Services," "Air Transportation" or "Courier, Air Travel."
3. Be prepared to offer a $500 deposit that will be returned to you a couple of weeks after the completion of the trip.
4. Make your reservation through the courier company's travel agent. Call the airline a few days in advance of your flight to verify your reservation and request a seat assignment.
5. Pack sparingly. You can only take carry-on baggage since your check-in space will be used for the company parcel.
6. Upon arrival, carry out your agreed-upon responsibilities, such as delivering a manifest to a representative at the destination and completing paperwork.

What to Look For:

• Destinations beyond North America
• Reputable courier companies
• Carry-on bag

Tips & Warnings

• Couriers must join a courier organization such as the International Association of Air Travel Couriers. You can contact other couriers for referrals via Courier.org.
• Ask about earning frequent-flier miles.
• There is only one courier seat per flight.