Trying to book the cheapest possible flights for any area can be tricky, at times seeming overwhelming due to searches that result in finding continual, frustrating prices on different websites. However, there are some ways to help you save time and money when booking your next flight, and the following are some tips to help you:
1. Maintain top-secret searches.
When you repeatedly search a site for flights, you might notice that prices tend to increase. When this happens, you’ll be more likely to book—and book fast—so that you can avoid seeing even higher prices in the future. How do airline websites know that you’ve looked at the same flights many times in a short span of time? Because of cookies! By switching to private browsing or Incognito mode, you can stop airline sites from tracking you. This way, you’ll see the lowest prices and eliminate the possibility of increased prices based solely on your prior viewing history.
2. Utilize the best flight searching sites.
There will naturally be some inflation of costs on all booking sites so they can make a profit and continue operating. However, some sites inflate prices much higher than others. So, it is important to do your research. Get familiar with sites that offer the best prices and look into comparison sites to more easily compare rates.
3. Think regional.
Each airport has its own regulations for airlines and routes. As a general rule, though, regional airports are regularly more affordable than bigger ones.
4. Be flexible on your travel dates.
Because traveling during the week is not as popular as on the weekends, the prices are cheaper then. So, if you are able to be more flexible with your timing, try to book flights during the weekdays. It could save you hundreds of dollars! Comparison sites, such as Skyscanner or Skiplagged, are created to give you constant updates on airline prices. However, you must quickly purchase your ticket with a spectacular rate before someone else gets it.
5. Plan ahead.
How far ahead you book your flights can also save you some serious coin. Check for fares approximately three to four months out, and you could enjoy some serious savings.
6. Get Points
Getting reward or loyalty program points can really help you out if you travel frequently. If don’t have points, you can sign up for a credit card with travel rewards and hit the lowest spend; that can yield you major bonus points, usually enough for a free flight. You can redeem points at various airlines upon signing up for a general travel rewards card, or you can sign up with a particular airline for an airline rewards card to earn points.
For those with a business, you can sign up for a business reward card instead. You also will earn major bonus points after spending a certain amount in a certain time period from the time you opened the account.
Airlines that Consistently offer Good Rates and/or Frequent Discounts.
Budget airlines can offer good rates. However, these great rates often come with compromises, such as no free drink or food allowed on board, and having less legroom. When you’ve booked and paid for your baggage, read the restrictions concerning the height, weight, and the number of bags permitted. Some airlines have expensive fees if the luggage reaches a certain height and weight. So, only paying for the exact luggage weight and/or space needed is how Budget airlines maintain lower prices than other airlines. It is imperative to always review the fine print. You must do your research to learn all the details of the restrictions and requirements whatever airline you choose to travel with.
Some popular airlines that tend tend to have lower rates include Southwest Airlines, AirTran Airways, Allegiant Air, JetBlue, and American Airlines.
Conclusion
Trying to book the cheapest possible flights can be overwhelming. If you continually find frustrating prices on different websites, it can seem like an endless search.
However, this situation can be a thing of the past when you use the tips mentioned above. From using Incognito mode to exploring budget airlines, you will be on your way to finding the most affordable airfare possible. Happy Booking!
