Booking flights can be quite expensive, but it doesn't have to be if you know how to shop smart. With some strategic planning and insider tricks, you can save a considerable amount on airfare. To help you with that, we will share 7 useful tips that can help you to book cheaper flight tickets online. You can try these tips, regardless of your destination, and save a considerable amount of money.
1. Be Flexible with Dates and Times
1. Be Flexible with Dates and Times
One of the easiest ways to save on flights is by adjusting your travel dates and times. Flying on less popular days of the week like Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are generally cheaper than high-demand days. You’ll also save money by taking red-eye flights (flight that departs at midnight and arrives at the destination in the morning) or connecting flights instead of nonstop routes. Consider traveling a day before or after your original plan if the fare difference is significant. Even an adjustment of 1-3 days can make a big cost difference.
2. Use Flight Search Engines and Fare Alerts
2. Use Flight Search Engines and Fare Alerts
Instead of checking the official websites of airlines, you may use flight portals like TripMaza to scan multiple airlines and consolidators. TripMaza is a perfect example for such a website that you can use to book flight tickets online. Their search algorithms scan hundreds of airlines and partners to get you the best available deal. This takes the work out of manually checking prices every day from multiple sites.
3. Be Mindful about Hidden Fees
3. Be Mindful about Hidden Fees
Full-service airlines often have reasonable upfront ticket prices. But the add-on fees like checked baggage and onboard meals can quickly increase the final cost. Always factor these in before you decide to book. Sometimes a slightly higher base fare on a low-cost airline might end up cheaper overall. TripMaza offers Zero Convenience Fee booking facility to help you save on every flight booking.
4. Use Private/Incognito Browsing
4. Use Private/Incognito Browsing
Airlines track browsing history and can raise prices if they see repeat visits. This is why you should always search in private or incognito mode. Additionally, try clearing your browser cache to remove digital footprints which identify you. Online ad trackers also impact flight prices shown. Disable them for financial savings.
5. Don’t Forget to Check Budget Airlines
5. Don’t Forget to Check Budget Airlines
Many travelers narrow their search down to legacy flag carriers of a country. But smaller, budget airlines often provide big savings. It doesn’t compromise the level of comfort you can have as well. For example, companies like Indigo and AirAsia offer rock-bottom regional deals. Akasa and Spicejet are also great domestic low-cost options in India. You can also consider this option to find cheaper flights.
6. Consider Nearby Alternative Airports
6. Consider Nearby Alternative Airports
Major airports are obvious choices due to their endless flights and connectivity. But also check prices for smaller regional airports located slightly farther out from your destination. If a 1-2 hour ground transport can save you ₹5000+, it’s worth investigating. For really large savings, even airports in neighboring cities could work. For Example you may Choose Mumbai instead of Pune if your destination happens to be somewhere in between and fares are cheaper for Mumbai. Likewise for International sectors Like UAE (Dubai) you may opt for Sharjah or Abu Dhabi incase the fares are cheaper.
7. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
7. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs
If you fly frequently on a preferred airline, joining their free frequent flyer program can unlock better prices. You earn points, miles, and status level perks with every trip. Redeem these for free flights, lounge access, and other exclusive benefits. This incentivizes brand loyalty but also offers more budget-friendly travel. Most GDS carriers offer such loyalty programs which may provide you additional miles on every flight.
Using some or all the above methods can lead to significant savings on flight bookings. Anyone wondering how to book a cheaper flight can follow these tips. Make sure that you have a flexible schedule and an open mindset. Then finding the cheapest flight booking will not be a challenge.