Everyone loves a good deal on flights, but airlines have mastered the art of pricing tickets strategically to maximize their profits. However, savvy travelers can use a few secret tricks to outsmart the system and book the cheapest flights possible. Here are the insider tips airlines don’t want you to know.
1. Use Incognito Mode When Searching
Airlines and travel websites track your searches using cookies and may increase the price if they detect repeated searches for the same route. To avoid this, search for flights in an incognito or private browsing window. Additionally, using different devices or networks can sometimes yield different prices.
2. Book at the Right Time
-
The best time to book domestic flights is typically 1-3 months in advance, while international flights should be booked 2-6 months in advance.
-
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the best days to book tickets, as airlines release new fare deals early in the week.
-
Flights are usually cheaper at midnight or early in the morning, as airlines adjust their prices based on demand.
-
Avoid booking flights during peak seasons, holidays, and major events when prices tend to be significantly higher.
3. Fly on Cheaper Days
Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays tend to be cheaper because fewer people travel on these days. Avoid flying on Fridays and Sundays when demand is highest. Additionally, red-eye flights and those with long layovers often come at a lower cost.
4. Use Flight Comparison Websites
Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, Momondo, and Hopper allow you to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals. Be sure to check multiple platforms to get the lowest fare. Also, booking directly through the airline’s website may sometimes offer better rates or additional perks, like free cancellations or seat selection.
5. Set Price Alerts
Sign up for price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner to be notified when fares drop. This can help you book at the right time and save money. Some websites, like Airfarewatchdog, provide notifications about flash sales and limited-time offers.
6. Be Flexible with Your Destination and Dates
If you have flexible travel dates or can fly to an alternative airport nearby, you can save significantly. Use the “Everywhere” search option on Skyscanner to find the cheapest destinations. Also, consider traveling during the off-season when flights and accommodations are more affordable.
7. Consider Budget Airlines
Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Spirit Airlines, and AirAsia often have significantly lower fares than major airlines. Just be mindful of additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and onboard amenities. Be sure to read the fine print to avoid unexpected charges.
8. Use Airline Miles and Credit Card Rewards
Frequent flyer programs and travel credit cards can help you earn points and miles that can be redeemed for free or discounted flights. Take advantage of sign-up bonuses to accumulate miles faster. Some credit cards also offer travel perks such as free checked bags, lounge access, and travel insurance.
9. Book One-Way Tickets Instead of Round Trips
Sometimes booking two separate one-way tickets on different airlines can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket from the same carrier. Compare both options before purchasing. Additionally, mixing and matching airlines may provide more affordable fares.
10. Clear Your Browser Cookies or Use a VPN
Some airlines show different prices based on your location or past searches. Try clearing your browser cookies or using a VPN to search from different locations and compare prices. Certain destinations may offer lower fares based on regional pricing differences.
11. Use Hidden City Ticketing (With Caution)
Hidden city ticketing is when you book a flight with a layover at your actual destination and skip the second leg. Websites like Skiplagged help find these deals, but be cautious—airlines frown upon this practice and could penalize frequent users by revoking loyalty points or canceling future flights.
12. Check for Airline Mistake Fares
Airlines sometimes publish mistake fares due to technical glitches or human error. Websites like Secret Flying and Scott’s Cheap Flights (now Going) track these deals and alert travelers. If you spot a mistake fare, book quickly as airlines may correct the price soon after.
13. Pay in a Different Currency
Sometimes, booking a flight in a currency other than your home country’s currency can be cheaper. Check if the airline offers price differences based on location and use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to maximize savings.
14. Avoid Extra Fees
-
Pack light to avoid baggage fees. Some airlines charge extra for checked bags and even carry-ons.
-
Bring your own snacks and water bottle to avoid paying for expensive airport food.
-
Check in online to avoid airport check-in fees with some budget airlines.
-
Use digital boarding passes to avoid printing fees at certain airports.
15. Use Student or Senior Discounts
Many airlines offer discounts for students, military personnel, and seniors. Always check if you qualify for special fares. Certain membership programs, such as ISIC (International Student Identity Card), can provide access to exclusive travel deals.
16. Consider Alternative Routes
Instead of booking a direct flight, look for multi-city routes or stopovers that can reduce your fare. Sometimes flying into a nearby city and taking a budget airline or train to your final destination can be significantly cheaper.
17. Join Airline Loyalty Programs
Signing up for airline loyalty programs can earn you points with every flight, leading to free flights, upgrades, and other travel benefits. Even if you don’t fly frequently, many programs allow you to accumulate miles through credit card spending and partner promotions.
Final Thoughts
Airlines use sophisticated pricing algorithms to maximize profits, but with these insider tricks, you can beat the system and book flights for much less. Being flexible, using smart booking strategies, and leveraging travel tools can save you hundreds of dollars on airfare.
Start applying these tricks today, and happy travels!
lorenest.com | Knowledge You Need, At Your Fingertips