With the end of the summer travel season comes the celebration of National Affordable Airfare Day, which encourages travelers to look for cheap flights. Despite its name, this day does not necessarily guarantee the lowest prices on tickets.
Katy Nastro, a travel specialist at Going, points out that “There’s no single day when airfares hit their lowest point. That’s just a myth.”
According to Nastro, the optimal time to book flights varies depending on your planned travel dates. This ideal booking window, known as the Goldilocks window, strikes a balance: it’s not too early and not too late. For domestic travel, this window falls one to three months in advance, while for international travel, it extends two to eight months in advance.
But snagging a deal on airfare isn’t just about timing it right. Here are three expert-recommended tactics for National Affordable Airfare Day:
Consistent research
If you’re thinking about traveling later in the year but aren’t ready to buy tickets yet, start tracking flight prices in advance. Checking fares regularly can help you understand pricing trends and budget for your purchase.
Nastro suggests using platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo to track and compare flight costs. “Exploring a variety of sources gives you a broader perspective on the pricing landscape, helping you spot the best deals over time,” he advises.
Gemma Jamieson, Senior Global PR Manager at Skyscanner, encourages in-depth research. “Airlines are increasingly strategic in their pricing tactics, studying consumer behavior to compete fiercely in the market,” she notes. “Extensive comparison shopping can lead to significant savings.”
Avoid last minute bookings
Procrastinating on booking your flight can be a costly mistake, especially as your travel date approaches. “Prices typically increase when travel season peaks, making last-minute bookings financially unprofitable,” Nastro warns.
It clears up a common misconception: “Airlines don’t add flights at the last minute to meet demand. The availability of additional flights isn’t as flexible as some might think.”
Flexibility is the key
Being open to different destinations and travel dates can lead to the most significant savings. “An open approach has made destinations like Croatia popular, turning them into mainstream vacation spots,” Jamieson explains.
Nastro agrees: “Flexibility is key to securing the best deals on airline tickets.”
Also, consider flying multiple airlines. Limiting yourself to airlines where you have loyalty points or status could mean missing out on cheaper or more convenient flights. “Broadening your choices can lead to surprisingly affordable options,” Nastro adds.
Jamieson suggests comparing one-way flights with multiple airlines to potentially find cheaper options. “Diversify your itinerary to maximize your savings,” he advises.
For those who want to improve their financial skills, it is advisable to enroll in financial management courses that offer practical strategies for increasing savings, getting out of debt, and investing for the future.
