Recently USA Today aviation columnist Bill McGee (blog.USAtoday.com/sky) wrote on the issue of finding the least expensive fare when individuals are in urgent need of travel due to the death of a family member. Several important facts are worth remembering when searching for the best available fare. First and foremost, don’t assume that just because you call a particular carrier and explain your situation that the fare that is quoted is the least expensive. Take the time to check with several carriers. Some offer discounts, while others do not. Secondly, always call the reservation centers rather then trying to do anything through the internet. Once you receive those pricing terms, check travel sites and booking engines to see if cheaper fares are available than what you were quoted.

Carriers usually require documentation such as funeral home locations, name of the deceased, or doctor’s name and number. Other questions might be the deceased person's relationship to yourself or other circumstances. While you’re in the process, if you require hotel accommodations or rental cars, be aware that some chains also offer reduced pricing in this situation as well. 

During a stressful event such as a death in the family, a little extra time and research might save you money in the long run.