Is it better to use a travel agent?

Generally, no. Agents add fees and make changes difficult. Use the airline's official mobile app to manage your bookings.

Why is my credit card being declined on a local airline site?

Many South American airline websites struggle with international cards due to 3D Secure verification issues. If this happens, try booking through the airline's mobile app or use PayPal if available.

Do I need to print my tickets?

In smaller regional airports, yes. While digital is becoming standard, having a printed PDF can save you 20 minutes of hassle at a check-in counter in remote areas.

Booking Multi-City Flights in South America

Use a combination of major search aggregators for long-haul legs and local airline websites for regional hops. Always check individual airline sites like LATAM or Avianca directly, as they often offer cheaper 'multi-city' bundles than third-party sites.

Use an aggregator to map your route. Use Google Flights or ITA Matrix to identify which carriers serve your specific regional routes. Do not book yet; just identify the connections.
Check regional carrier hubs. South American aviation is dominated by a few major groups. If you are flying between countries, check LATAM, Avianca, and Gol directly. They often have 'multi-destination' search tools that bypass the high markups of travel agencies.
Book one-way tickets strategically. Don't force a single 'multi-city' ticket if the price is high. It is often cheaper to book separate one-way tickets on low-cost carriers like JetSmart or Sky Airline, especially when moving between neighboring countries.
Verify baggage policies. Low-cost carriers in South America often have 'Basic' fares that exclude carry-ons. Always select the tier that includes at least one 10kg carry-on, or you will pay a massive premium at the gate.

Is it better to use a travel agent?: Generally, no. Agents add fees and make changes difficult. Use the airline's official mobile app to manage your bookings.
Why is my credit card being declined on a local airline site?: Many South American airline websites struggle with international cards due to 3D Secure verification issues. If this happens, try booking through the airline's mobile app or use PayPal if available.
Do I need to print my tickets?: In smaller regional airports, yes. While digital is becoming standard, having a printed PDF can save you 20 minutes of hassle at a check-in counter in remote areas.