Looking for flights on a budget? Consider price freezing and other newer trends

As higher inflation and interest rates continue to strain consumer pocketbooks, air travel may feel increasingly out of reach.

But a handful of novel approaches to buying fares has hit the market, offering snowbirds and infrequent fliers alike a chance to purchase tickets in ways that allow small savings or flexible payment.

Price freezing, subscription plans and buy now, pay later are among the newer options.

The first of these refers to spotting a price for a plane trip, hotel or car rental and freezing it on the spot for potential purchase later.