Tuesday, September 5, 2023

How do you save money booking flights?







1.  
**Book in Advance**:
   - Generally, booking your flight tickets in advance can help you secure lower fares. Aim to book at least a few weeks ahead, but not too early as airlines often release sales closer to departure dates.

2. **Be Flexible with Dates**:
   - Be open to traveling during off-peak times or on weekdays, as flights are often cheaper then. Use flexible date search options when booking.

3. **Use Fare Comparison Websites**:
   - Utilize flight search engines and fare comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, or Momondo to compare prices across different airlines and travel agencies.

4. **Set Fare Alerts**:
   - Sign up for fare alerts or notifications through travel websites or apps to receive updates when prices drop for your chosen routes.

5. **Consider Nearby Airports**:
   - Check if flying from or to nearby airports can be more cost-effective, even if it involves a short drive or additional transit.

6. **Book Round Trips**:
   - Booking a round-trip ticket with the same airline often results in a lower total cost than purchasing one-way tickets separately.

7. **Leverage Loyalty Programs**:
   - Join frequent flyer programs and loyalty programs to accumulate miles or points, which can lead to discounted or free flights in the future. (See Chase's Sapphire Card program and watch for special promotions)

8. **Use Points and Miles**:
   - If you have accumulated airline miles or credit card points, consider using them to offset the cost of your flight.

9. **Check Baggage Fees**:
   - Be aware of baggage fees when comparing flight prices. Some airlines charge extra for checked bags, which can significantly impact your overall cost.

10. **Book Red-Eye or Connecting Flights**:
    - Red-eye flights (overnight) and flights with layovers are often cheaper than direct daytime flights.

11. **Clear Browser Cookies and Use Incognito Mode**:
    - Some believe that airlines and booking websites may track your search history and potentially raise prices for repeat searches. Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode when searching for flights.


12. **Consider Budget Airlines**:
    - Budget carriers may offer lower base fares, but be mindful of additional fees and services they may charge separately.

13. **Wait for Sales**:
    - Keep an eye out for airline sales and promotions, especially during major travel events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

14. **Haggle or Negotiate**:
    - In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a better deal with airlines directly, especially if you encounter booking issues or have special requests.

15. **Travel Light**:
    - Pack efficiently to avoid excess baggage fees, as well as the hassle of checking and claiming luggage.

Remember that ticket prices can fluctuate, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. It's a good idea to start your search early, compare options, and be flexible with your travel plans to find the best deals. Additionally, travel restrictions and safety measures can impact prices, so stay informed about the latest travel advisories and requirements.

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