The holiday flight prices these days are rising and don’t seem to be decreasing any time soon. Inflation is dipping its greedy little hands in all of our pockets. From the price of groceries to the cost of auto maintenance, no one is exempt. So it’s no wonder that the price of flights are following the inflation trend. I travel often and have a few tips for booking the best flights.
Be flexible with your travel
The more flexible you are, the more likely you are to find a great deal. Consider traveling during off-peak seasons or on weekdays instead of weekends. Also, consider booking your flights well in advance. Airlines tend to offer cheaper prices for those who book their flights several months ahead of time. I usually try to book my travel for the middle of the week on a Tuesday through Thursday. Consider alternate airports when possible for booking your flights departure or return. Smaller airports may have lower fees and taxes, which can result in cheaper flights. Additionally, some airlines may offer flights to these smaller airports at a lower cost. So, instead of flying into the main airport of your destination, consider flying into a smaller airport nearby. Now, please keep in mind this is not always the case. Check out the fare for different departures and dates to compare the nearest and furthest airports.
Pay attention to additional fees that may be added to your flight
Some airlines may charge extra fees for checked baggage, carryons, seat selection, beverages, snacks, wifi, and in-flight meals (when available). Be sure to read the fine print and factor in these additional costs when comparing flight prices.
Look for promo and loyalty offers
Be make sure you compare prices from different airlines. There are many online tools available to help you compare prices easily and quickly. Don’t forget to also check the airline’s own website, as sometimes they offer exclusive deals that aren’t available on third-party websites. Another tip for booking the best flights is to sign up for email alerts from airlines and travel websites. These alerts can notify you of special deals, discounts, and promotions. Consider joining the airline’s loyalty program. You can earn points and miles that can be used towards future flights or even upgrades. Many airlines also offer exclusive deals and discounts to their loyalty program members. It’s also a good idea to clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode when searching for flights. This can prevent airlines from tracking your search history and potentially raising prices based on your search activity.
Bundle for more savings overall
Finally, consider bundling your flight with hotel or rental car reservations. Many travel websites offer package deals that can save you money on your overall travel expenses. These packages can often be customized to fit your specific needs and budget. For example, you can choose to stay in a budget-friendly hotel or upgrade to a luxury resort. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for a better deal, especially if you are booking a group or multiple flights. Bundling your flight can be a great way to save money. Not only can you potentially get a discount on your flight, but you can also save on other expenses like transportation and accommodations. If you’re traveling in a group or booking multiple flights, don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better deal. Many travel providers offer group discounts or other incentives for booking multiple reservations at once.
By following these tips, you can save money and book the best flights for your next vacation or business trip. Safe and happy travels!
