Just some random observations about GF and ITA, in no special order:
-often it seems that if an airline is having a sale or discount, then you'll see better prices on their own website.
- Some LCCs don't seem to show up on GF or ITA
- Often using the multi-city tool in GF will find better prices than simple returns
- In ITA be sure to allow unlimited stops. Also being flexible with +/- days can make a huge difference
- Do use the nearby airports for departure and arrival
- Just for fun, try adding one extra short domestic flight to the end of your multi-stop itinerary.
- I've had luck on GF with things like SYD-AKL-NTL. It forces convoluted but cheap itineraries to appear. E.g SYD-AKL-MEL-BNE-NTL all in J for a few dollars more than SYD-AKL return.
- The map function on GF is great, especially for things like positioning flights.
- Of my last three big international trips, 2/3 have still been booked for the best available price via the airlines direct. 1/3 came via ITA (using the browser add-on that allows bookings from ITA.
