In order to allow students the flexibility to plan independent travel and to take advantage of travel benefits such as frequent flyer miles, ISA does not coordinate airfare for students. Instead, we are happy to direct students towards airlines, travel agencies, and other resources that we find useful when planning a trip. Thorough research, well in advance (at least two months), is the key to finding a reasonably priced airline ticket (though uncontrollable factors can sometimes affect airfares regardless of when tickets are purchased). Nonetheless, we recommend inquiring with three types of resources before purchasing a ticket: student travel agencies, discount internet search engines, and the airlines themselves.

Student travel agencies tend to offer discounted rates. They are especially accommodating when a change or cancellation is made to the flight, as they tend to charge nominal fees for such changes compared to the fees charged by most airlines and travel agencies.

Internet search engines provide a quick and easy method for comparing multiple airlines at a glance, and at times special "web fares" may be offered.

It is always good to call the airline directly for concrete information, special deals, and to inquire whether frequent flyer miles may be applied to the ticket.