How To Take Advantage Of Lower Flight Prices By Waiting For The Right Time To Buy
Are you looking for cheap flights? Have you ever wanted to plan your dream vacation without breaking the bank? If so, waiting for the right time to buy your flight tickets can be an invaluable way of taking advantage of lower flight prices. Taking the time to understand when airline prices are more likely to drop can be the key to Skyrocketing on your next holiday. Here’s how to make the most of cheaper flight prices by timing your purchase perfectly.
Research Price Trends
Doing so can be a great way to better understand when airline prices are likely to drop. Generally, it’s best to book your flights within 30 days of the departure date though there will be different ways of saving depending on the destination. For instance, an internal USA flight will likely save you money if booked two weeks to a month in advance, whereas an international flight can save you money if you book more than a month in advance. Keep in mind that there are also times of the year when airfares are higher. Remember, researching price trends can be a great way to identify the best time to book your flight.
Know Off-Peak Seasons
If you’re not tied to specific dates, it can be a good idea to book during the off-peak season. This means avoiding travels during school holidays and any peak festivals. Generally, the winter months are the cheapest, with prices rising for the summer. However, it’s important to be flexible and use an airline search engine so that you can compare the same routes at different times of the year. Additionally, you may be able to benefit from mid-week travel if willing to fly on a Tuesday or Wednesday as these are usually the cheapest days.
Sign up for Price Alerts
Price alerts inform you when any price changes occur, enabling you to be the first to know when deals are available. This means that you may be able to take advantage of newly released promotions. You can sign up for price updates from your chosen airline, and ensure that you keep an eye out for special offers. Alternatively, use comparison websites to easily compare flights from different sources.
Think Outside the Box
It doesn’t hurt to think outside of the box when looking for cheaper tickets.
Consider flying from a different airport, as this can sometimes save you money. You may be able to take advantage of hidden city flights too. These are flights with stopovers, and the idea is to get off at the stopover, leaving the rest unused. However, this method involves buying two separate flight tickets, which aren’t always worth the tradeoff in savings.
Full Service Airlines vs Low-Cost Carriers
Full-service airlines offer a wider network than low-cost carriers, and they may get you access to exclusive connectors that can help make airports more convenient. They tend to favor leisure travelers, and generally provide more in-flight services such as in-flight food, lounge access, and more baggage allowances per passenger. In contrast, low-cost carriers usually offer more basic services, excel in clever routing, and prioritize customers willing to fly without any of the added amenities. Low-cost carriers are the perfect option if you prefer to stick to your budget.
Use Flight Points and Loyalty Programs
These can be a great way to save money on expensive flights. Airlines typically run loyalty programs, enabling you to accumulate points when you fly with them. You can also sign up for features such as business class upgrades, as these can be a great way to potentially snag great deals. Remember to keep an eye out for bonuses and other offers that may enable you to benefit from more flight points or miles.
FAQs
How can I get the best flight prices?
Look for flight fares during the off-peak season, and research price trends so that you can understand when airline prices are likely to drop. Sign up for price alerts, and use comparison websites to see if you can snag a good deal. Additionally, think outside the box and consider flying from a different airport as this can sometimes save you money.
Should I consider low-cost carriers?
Low-cost carriers can be a great money saver, as they tend to favor customers willing to fly without any of the added amenities. However, full-service airlines usually offer a wider network, and can get you access to exclusive connectors that can make airports more convenient.
How many points or miles do I need to accumulate to get access to cheaper flights?
This will vary depending on the airline and destination but many of the loyalty programs run by the airlines require you to accumulate at least a certain amount of points or miles. Keep an eye out for bonuses and other offers that may enable you to benefit from more flight points or miles.
