Securing the cheapest flights to your dream destinations is both science and art. The science part deals with the simple common sense or economics of demand and supply. The art portion is understanding when is the best time to go in and purchase your flight. If you are an avid traveller, you will probably know that flights are open for booking for around a year in advance and prices can fluctuate like the stock market. To get the best deals, it is a good habit to plan in advance and book your flights early. It is usually the last-minute travellers who are held hostage by spike prices.
Clear Skies For Travels Again
Due to the pandemic, air travel has experienced a sharp dip but travellers are now back with a vengeance. In January 2022 Consumer Airfare Index Report, it has been predicted that airfare will recover back to 2019 levels by April 2022. To encourage more potential customers to take the leap of faith to travel again, many airlines now allow last-minute changes to flight dates due to uncertainties or emergencies. This assures many travellers who can now book in advance and postpone should things go south.
As the skies clear up for travels again, we are here to help you land the best deals possible for your upcoming summer flights. Schedule your trip early and secure the cheapest flight.
1. Book Early
With many flocking back to travel, it is inevitable that prices will rise fast due to heightened demands. This is especially so during the summer travel season particularly to resolve pent-up frustrations over the pandemic years. We recommend that you book your flights as early as possible as prices are likely to go up as you get closer to your intended travel dates.
2. Go International
If you are considering domestic and international travel in the United States, we urge you to consider venturing abroad this summer. Domestic flight prices for summer travel have spiked 28% compared to before COVID whereas flights to European cities have only risen by 3%.
3. Fly During August
If you do not have a date in mind yet, we strongly recommend the month of August. Kayak showed that prices for both domestic and international travel are at their lowest that month.
4. Take A Less Popular Flight
If you do not need to rely on a long weekend to save up on your leave days, you can save substantially by flying on the less popular weekdays. Go fly out on a Monday and return on a Friday, you will be surprised how much you save!
Not everyone would be able to tolerate a red-eye flight. But if you are someone who can, it is time to use it to your advantage. The perks are that you have less competition for your ticket price, shorter queues during check-in and the undivided attention of the service staff on the flight.
5. Be Prepared To Take Stops
No one likes to make stops during flights but what if it can offer substantial savings for you? If you have time on your hands, you may consider getting a connecting flight instead of a one-way, nonstop flight. You can even plan for a few days stopover in the connecting city if you have never visited it before.
5. Be Flexible For Airports
You may be surprised that the airport that you land at can increase your flight cost substantially. Prices are usually higher for airports that are closer to city centres or better connected by public transport. If you have time on your hands and do not mind a longer public transport or driving slightly longer, you may be able to save a substantial amount.
6. Use Your Miles
If you have been clocking up airline miles during the pandemic, it is time to put them to good use now! Check how far your miles can bring you and plan accordingly. You may even decide to pamper yourself on business or even first-class for a nearer destination.
We hope you find the above tips useful, do share with us if you have more innovative tips on getting cheap flights for your summer holidays. Having been cooped up for the past 2 years, you deserve a pat on your back for the good job done taking care of yourself and your loved ones during the pandemic. Go take a good break and enjoy yourself!
