- Book on Tuesday and Wednesday
Tuesday and Wednesday are among the best days to buy flight tickets. Most airlines usually set up their booking systems on Tuesday at 7:00 PM. This is because airlines know that most passengers will only have time to book tickets on weekdays. According to statistics, it is proven that most of us only browse ticket prices on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays.
- Book Early, But Not Too Early
Based on experience, you should book tickets at least 21 days in advance of your travel date. Most airlines have set up their systems to achieve as many ticket sales as possible. Therefore, the system has a certain quota for very cheap tickets. For example, in the system, it is determined that for flights from Kuala Lumpur to London, only the first 20 passengers will get the lowest price. The next 200 passengers will get a medium price, and the rest may be more expensive. In short, the airline’s system will set ticket prices based on the margin they want when flying from Kuala Lumpur to London.
- Suitable Flying Days
Try to book tickets to fly on Tuesday or Wednesday. Most airlines set these two days as ‘less busy days’ for booking systems. Airports are also usually less busy on these two days compared to Fridays and Sundays when the booking system and airports become very busy.
- Look for the ‘Best Deal’ for International Flights
Most airlines will offer the ‘Best Deal’ about 11 to 12 weeks in advance for international flights. So, you need to regularly check ticket prices during this period.
- Choose to Land at Smaller Airports
You can try this technique, which is landing at an airport that is not the ‘main airport’ for that destination. For example, if you want to go to London, many will usually choose to land at Heathrow. Next time, don’t land at Heathrow, but try landing at a ‘smaller’ airport near Heathrow, such as the airport in Manchester. Then, from Manchester, you can take a train to London. Try this method. It should be cheaper!
- Clear ‘Cookies’
Many people do not know this. Clear the cookies on your laptop, smartphone, and PC if you have visited the airline’s website 30 days before. This is because through these cookies, the airline’s booking system will assume that you have visited their website repeatedly. Therefore, the booking system will set the same price even if you have visited the website multiple times. Sometimes, the price may even increase! So, practice the habit of clearing cookies on your internet browser. If you don’t know how to delete them, ask Mr. Google!
- Compare Prices
Don’t be lazy to google and compare the ticket prices you want on other websites. Don’t just focus on one website. You will be surprised because sometimes you will find cheaper ticket prices from the same airline.
FAQs for Tips and Tricks to Book Flights at the Cheapest Rates
Q: When is the best time to book flights for the lowest fares?
A: The best time to book flights is usually 6-8 weeks in advance for domestic travel and 3-6 months in advance for international trips. Booking early often secures the lowest rates.
Q: Are there specific days of the week that are cheaper to fly?
A: Yes, mid-week days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically offer cheaper fares compared to weekends. Additionally, early morning and late-night flights can also be more affordable.
Q: How can I avoid price increases when searching for flights online?
A: Use your browser’s incognito mode to prevent airlines and travel websites from tracking your search history and potentially raising prices based on repeated searches.
Q: What are the benefits of joining frequent flyer programs?
A: Frequent flyer programs allow you to earn miles or points with each flight, which can be redeemed for free or discounted tickets, upgrades, and other travel perks.
Q: Is it cheaper to book connecting flights instead of direct flights?
A: Often, yes. Connecting flights can be significantly cheaper than direct flights. While they may add travel time, the cost savings can make it worthwhile.
Q: How can fare alerts help me find cheaper flights?
A: Setting up fare alerts on websites and apps like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak will notify you when prices drop for your desired route, helping you catch flash sales and book flights at the cheapest rates.
Q: What is hidden city ticketing, and is it legal?
A: Hidden city ticketing involves booking a flight with a layover in your intended destination and skipping the final leg. While it can result in cheaper fares, it comes with risks, and airlines may not approve of this practice. Be cautious if you choose to use this method.
Q: How can I use credit card points to save on flights?
A: Many credit cards offer travel rewards and points for purchases that can be redeemed for flights. Choose a credit card with a strong travel rewards program and use it for everyday expenses to accumulate points for free or discounted flights.
Q: What are off-peak or shoulder seasons, and why are they cheaper?
A: Off-peak or shoulder seasons are periods just before or after the peak tourist seasons when demand is lower. Traveling during these times often results in cheaper airfare and fewer crowds.
