If you plan to travel to more than one continent, your best option is to get an RTW ticket. This is a ticket that gives you unlimited time, usually a year, to go around the globe in one direction with a predetermined number of stopovers. There are a lot of RTW combinations, so if you want to visit more places in less travel time, this kind of ticket is usually much cheaper than trying to buy individual tickets as you go.
You can get ticket discounts if you travel with a group. Other airlines offer discounts for teachers, students and holders of youth cards.
Avoid buying secondhand tickets that are usually worthless and do not match your identification. Immigration officials will most likely stop you from getting on that flight anyway. Once you have a clear idea of your travel plans and the amount of time can afford to be away, purchase your airline ticket directly from an airline company, from selected travel agents, or through reputable travel magazines.