Avoiding getting bumped on your next airline flight

Nothing is worse than getting ready for your air flight or vacation only to find out the airlines have over sold your flight. I've listed some tips to avoid getting bumped on your next flight: 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don't be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the "standby" seat assignment list.

Here are some tips to remember when bumping your way to cheap travel:

• Pay attention. If you volunteer your seat and the bump reward later goes up, make sure you get the top reward as well.
• Get it in writing. If the airline promises you travel credit, an upgrade, dinner – or anything else, if you don't have proof of the offer, you could miss out.
• Ask for more. When the agent rebooks your flight, ask for an upgrade.
• Have a good night. If your new flight schedule requires a night stay, the airline will likely provide a hotel voucher good at certain airport hotels. Make sure you get a hotel with adequate airport transportation, or get a taxi voucher.
• Waste time wisely. If the airline books you on a flight requiring more than a two-hour wait in the airport, ask for permission to use its club lounge.
• Do it all again. If your re-booked flight is also oversold, go ahead and give up your seat again.

Happy Travels!