Can I buy flights from a US website if I live in the UK?

Question

Due the current exchange rate, it would appear to be cheaper to buy 2 one-way flights from a US airline website rather than a Return ticket from a UK airline website. Assuming you live in the UK, have a british passport and can arrange international delivery of the actual tickets, is this legitimate?

Answer 1

If you are a UK citizen and resident you should be able to purchase your ticket from a US website HOWEVER it is not advisable for several reasons.  First, the bank that issues your credit card will probably charge you a fee for the conversion of the purchase from USD to GBP.  Depending on the bank this fee can range anywhere from 0.5%-3% of the total purchase price.  The bank may also not give you the most favourable exchange rate either.  Secondly, if there are any problems with your departure ie cancelled or delayed flights etc. the airline agent in the UK may have difficulties re-issuing your tickets to accomodate you on a new itinerary.  You mention "delivery of the actual tickets" however airlines rarely issue hard tickets anymore and if they do charge fees which, when added to your bank's fees for the transaction, may all but erradicate the savings you realise by booking on the US website.  My advice is to purchase your tickets from the UK or EU website to avoid any difficulties should there be any irregularities in your travel.

Answer 2

I don't see why not. I have done this from Australia instead of the UK and there was no problem using my US issued credit card. I've also bought Singapore airlines tickets to fly within asia using the same card, and that ticket I bought while in Paris. From Tokyo I have bought tickets on NWA to fly to Detroit. You just have to be sure you are on the right website. Some international sites automatically detect your location and send you to their local site. Another thing I've noticed is when you do this, you have to show your credit card when you check in.  

By the way, I used both American Express and Visa credit cards, and I was never charged anything extra. The total shown at purchase, in whatever currency, is what I paid.

Answer 3

You absolutely can do it IF the website allows you to put in international addresses.  My bf in the UK just bought me a plane ticket on a US website and didnt have any trouble.  I agree with the above poster, though, check with your credit card and make sure you arent going to actually end up paying more than you expect b/c of surcharges and such.  And you shouldnt have to have tickets delivered, so that wont be a problem.  If I were you, I would call the website and ask for any problems they are aware of in case of cancellation or other need to change your flights, but as far as purchasing the ticket, you wont have any trouble.

Answer 4

try this site for cheaper fares

also try to book on the week days..it is cheaper

http://asianairfares.com