Whenever possible, Priceline will buy e-tickets. Those aren't tickets at all, just a record in the airline's computer that you're flying. Most travelers nowadays prefer e-tickets to the real thing. You can't lose them, you don't have to pay for shipping, and they give you just as many rights as paper tickets.

Airlines don't offer e-tickets on many international flights, so Priceline will tack on a $19.95 fee to send you paper tickets. Unfortunately, you can't avoid this. The fee will appear on your Please Review Your Request screen, so just factor it in when you make your bid.