Flight Booking Secrets Frequent Flyers Use
If you’re a frequent flyer, you know that booking flights can be a tricky and expensive process. With airlines constantly changing their prices and limited availability for popular routes, it can be frustrating to try and snag a good deal. But what if there were some insider secrets that could help you save money and hassle when booking your next flight? In this article, we’ll reveal the top flight booking secrets that frequent flyers use to get the best deals and travel smarter. Keep reading to discover how you can become a pro at booking flights like a frequent flyer.
Timing is Everything
One of the most important secrets to booking flights like a pro is to know when to book. According to several studies, the best time to book domestic flights is about 6-8 weeks before your desired departure date. For international flights, aim to book around 3-4 months in advance. This is when airlines tend to release their cheapest fares, so booking within this window can save you hundreds of dollars.
Be Flexible with Dates and Times
Another key tip for getting the best deals on flights is to be flexible with your travel dates and times. If possible, avoid traveling on weekends and opt for mid-week flights instead. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are known to be the cheapest days to fly. Additionally, consider booking early morning or late-night flights, as these tend to be less expensive than mid-day flights.
Use Incognito Mode
Did you know that airlines use cookies to track your online activity and potentially increase prices based on your search history? To avoid this, use the incognito or private browsing mode on your web browser when searching for flights. This prevents cookies from being stored, allowing you to search without being targeted for price increases.
Sign Up for Airline Newsletters
One of the best ways to stay updated on flight deals is to sign up for airline newsletters. Airlines often send out promotional emails with special deals and sales, so by subscribing, you’ll be the first to know about these offers. Additionally, take advantage of airline loyalty programs to earn points, discounts, and other perks when you book flights regularly with one specific airline.
Utilize Flight Comparison Sites
Instead of booking directly with an airline, consider using a flight comparison site. These websites allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines, giving you a better chance of finding the best deal. Some popular flight comparison sites include Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights.
Be Open to Layovers
Although direct flights may seem more convenient, they can also be more expensive. Don’t be afraid to book flights with layovers, as this can significantly lower the price of your ticket. Plus, you can use these layovers as an opportunity to explore a new city or country during your travels.
Clear Your Cache Before Booking
Just like with cookies, airlines can also track your online activity through your browser’s cache. This means if you’ve searched for a specific flight multiple times, the price may increase based on your interest. To avoid this, clear your browser’s cache before booking a flight to ensure you are getting the best price possible.
Final Thoughts
By following these flight booking secrets used by frequent flyers, you’ll be able to save money, avoid frustration, and travel smarter. Remember to book in advance, be flexible with dates and times, use incognito mode, sign up for newsletters, utilize flight comparison sites, be open to layovers, and clear your cache before booking. With these insider tricks, you’ll be a pro at booking flights like a frequent flyer in no time. Happy travels!