Allow yourself plenty of time to arrange travel plans.

Ideally, you should book your flight at least a month before your departure. In fact, it's a good idea to order your ticket shortly after your student visa application is approved. Many airlines offer discounts for tickets bought several weeks in advance. These reduced prices are called Advance Purchase Excursion (APEX) fares. Be sure to ask about these rates when you order your tickets.

Compare the rates of several airlines in the United States and your own country. Sometimes an US airline carrier will be less expensive; other times an airline from your nation will offer a better deal. 

The largest airlines in the United States are:

American Airlines http://www.im.aa.com/
Continental http://www.continental.com/
Delta http://www.delta.com/home/index.jsp
Northwest http://www.nwa.com/
Southwest http://www.southwestairlines.com/
TWA http://www.twa.com/
United http://www.united.com/
US Airways http://www.usair.com/

Trip Tips

• Pack Sensibly. Most airlines allow only one carry-on bag and two pieces of luggage. That means you'll want to plan what you pack. In case your luggage gets delayed, be sure to keep your important paperwork, passport, telephone numbers, toothbrush and change of clothes in your carry-on bag. Other good items to have on the flight are bottled water, books or magazines, and aspirin. 
• Plan Ahead. Knowing what to expect when you arrive can save you headaches down the road. Familiarize yourself with the customs regulations in the United States, and arrange ground transportation before you leave.
• Arrive Early. Allow plenty of time to arrive at the airport before your flight. For international trips, it's a good idea to arrive two hours prior to your departure time. This will allow you to check in and get to your gate without rushing. 
• Have Insurance. You'll need health insurance before you enroll in college, and many students purchase insurance from their school. Unfortunately, most of these policies don't actually come into effect until after classes begin. That means you are not insured for accidents or illnesses that occur from the time you leave home and school begins. With U.S. medical care so expensive that can be very risky. Learn more about a new insurance plan that addresses this and other needs of international students.

Enjoy your trip!