In a bid to make air travel more affordable, industry experts have shared a series of practical hacks for securing cheaper flight tickets.
These strategies range from choosing the best days to book to understanding airline pricing dynamics.
How to book cheap flights
When is the best time to book a flight?
Optimal Booking Windows
One of the most frequently asked questions by travellers is about the best time to book a flight to get the lowest price.
Typically, booking a flight about two months in advance is advisable for domestic trips.
For international flights, booking even earlier, around three to six months in advance, can lead to significant savings.
Prices tend to rise as the departure date gets closer, so early planning can be beneficial.
Does the day of the week affect flight prices?
Cheapest Days to Book and Fly
Travel experts suggest that the day of the week can indeed impact the cost of flight tickets.
Generally, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly, as airlines release new fares at discounted rates on these days.
Sundays, on the other hand, tend to be the most expensive day to fly due to high demand.
When it comes to booking, late Monday night to early Tuesday morning often sees the lowest prices as airlines adjust their rates based on the weekend’s booking activity.
Should I book last-minute flights for cheaper deals?
Risks and Rewards of Last-Minute Bookings
Contrary to popular belief, last-minute bookings are typically not the best way to score cheap flights.
While there may occasionally be last-minute deals, these are unpredictable and not guaranteed.
Airlines usually raise prices closer to the departure date as seats become scarce. Planning ahead is generally the safer and more reliable method to secure low-cost tickets.
Can alerts and tools help me find cheaper flights?
Utilising Technology for Better Deals
Travellers are advised to use price alerts and fare comparison tools, which can be instrumental in finding cheap flights.
Websites and apps like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak allow users to set up alerts that notify them when prices for their desired routes drop.
These tools use algorithms to predict price changes and can help in booking flights at their lowest prices.
Is there a benefit to flying out of alternative airports?
Exploring Nearby Airports
Choosing to fly out of alternative, less busy airports can also lead to cheaper flights.
Major airports might have higher fees and more traffic, which can drive up ticket prices.
Checking nearby smaller airports can uncover better deals, especially if they serve the same destinations.
This guide offers travellers practical and straightforward advice on how to find cheaper flight options by understanding the best times to book, utilising technology, and considering alternative airports.
With these tips, travellers can plan their trips more economically and efficiently.