Airfare deals are typically only available on limited dates. We recommend that you use Google Flights to find dates to fly, then book through an online travel agency, such as Orbitz, which allows you to cancel flights without penalty by 11pm Eastern Time within one day of booking. Remember: Fares may disappear quickly, so book right away and take advantage of Orbitz’s courtesy cancellation if you’re unable to travel.
Deals to South America are back this week with flights to Brazil from the US. Earlier this fall, we saw some deals to Colombia from $267 and to Chile from $400. Today’s deals aren’t quite as cheap, but you can find nonstop service for under $500.
These discounted flights are available from October through December, and are serviced by a mix of Oneworld partners, including American, LAN and TAM. Depending on travel dates, airlines and your destination, you might have a connection in Santiago (SCL), Sao Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG). Additionally, it seems that the absolute cheapest fares must be booked via Orbitz, whereas you can purchase directly through the airlines at a small premium.
Don’t forget that you need a visa to visit Brazil, so make sure you’re able to enter the country and get your visa in order before you’re locked into the ticket. If you book through Orbitz, you’ll be guaranteed a full refund if you cancel by 11pm ET the day after booking.
Airlines: American, LAN and TAM.
Route(s): JFK to GIG and GRU
Cost: $476-516+ round-trip in economy
Dates: October 2015 through December 2015
Booking Link: Orbitz
Pay With: American Express Premier Rewards Gold, Citi Prestige or Chase Sapphire Preferred
Here are a few examples of what you can book:
New York (JFK) to Sao Paulo (GRU) for $476:
New York (JFK) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG) for $516:
Maximize Your Purchase
Don’t forget to use a credit card that earns additional points on airfare purchases, such as the American Express Premier Rewards Gold or Citi Prestige (3x on airfare) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2x on all travel purchases). Check out this post for more on maximizing airfare purchases.
H/T: The Flight Deal
If you’re able to score one of these tickets, please share the good news in the comments below!