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Are you looking to save money on your next flight without relying on skiplagging? Airfare prices have been on the rise, making it more challenging for travelers to find affordable tickets. However, there are alternative strategies you can employ to cut costs without risking your travel plans. According to Bobby Laurie, a travel expert and former flight attendant with US Airways and Virgin America, there are two key ways to save money on flights. First, avoid searching for your planned flight too often on the same search engine, device, or IP network, as airlines may use dynamic pricing to increase fares based on demand. Second, be selective with add-ons to your tickets and consider exploring alternative routes with stopovers, as they could be cheaper than non-stop flights. By following these tips, you can save money and make your travel experience more affordable.
Avoid Searching Flight Too Often
When it comes to booking flights, it's important to be strategic and avoid searching for your planned flight too often. This is because many airlines have a dynamic pricing strategy, which means that airfares may surge based on how many people are searching for a specific route. If the airline's system detects that a particular flight is of interest, the prices may rise the more you search, assuming that you're interested and would pay the higher price.
To work around this dynamic pricing strategy, it's best to limit your searches on the same search engine, device, or IP network. By doing so, you can potentially avoid triggering price increases. Additionally, instead of solely searching for the cheapest economy fare, consider searching for the cheapest upgraded cabin fare. Oftentimes, when a lot of people are searching for economy flights, the price will rise. However, there are instances where first class or premium economy fares are actually cheaper than coach tickets. By focusing on the upgraded cabin fares, you may be able to find a better deal and enjoy a more comfortable flying experience.
Searching for the Cheapest Upgraded Cabin Fare
When searching for flights, it's common for travelers to prioritize finding the cheapest overall fare. However, by solely focusing on the lowest-priced tickets, you may be missing out on potential savings. One strategy to consider is searching for the cheapest upgraded cabin fare instead. It may come as a surprise, but there are instances where first class or premium economy fares are actually cheaper than coach tickets.
This can happen when there is a high demand for economy flights. Airlines may increase the prices for economy tickets due to the number of people searching for them. On the other hand, first class or premium economy fares may be more affordable because there is less demand for those cabins. By being open to exploring upgraded cabin fares, you may be able to snag a deal and enjoy the added comfort and amenities that come with a higher class of service.
Be Selective with Add-Ons
When booking flights, it's important to carefully consider the add-ons that are offered by airlines. These add-ons can include options like travel insurance or the ability to make changes or get a refund on your ticket. While these add-ons may seem like a good idea, they often come with extra costs that can significantly increase the overall price of your flight.
One key add-on to be selective about is purchasing a refundable fare. Unless you are booking with ultra-low-cost carriers, it's not advisable to spend extra for a refundable fare when booking with major US airlines. In most cases, if you cancel your flight or make changes to your flight date after 24 hours of booking, you will not receive a cash refund. Instead, you will receive a credit to use with the airline, which may have restrictions or expiration dates. Unless you have a specific need for a refundable fare, it's best to opt for a non-refundable ticket and save on unnecessary costs.
Another aspect to consider is the available routes and stopovers when planning your trip. Many travelers tend to prefer direct flights, but sometimes taking a flight with a stopover can be more cost-effective. Flight pairings with a stopover are sometimes cheaper than non-stop flights. Don't be afraid to explore different route options and consider the possibility of a stopover. Not only can it save you money, but it can also add an extra adventure to your journey.
Avoid Spending Extra for a Refundable Fare
When booking flights, it's common for airlines to offer the option of purchasing a refundable fare. This means that if you need to cancel your flight or make changes to your flight date, you can receive a cash refund. However, unless you are booking with ultra-low-cost carriers, it's usually not advisable to spend extra for a refundable fare when booking with major US airlines.
The reason for this is that most major US airlines have a policy where if you cancel your flight or make changes to your flight date after 24 hours of booking, you will not receive a cash refund. Instead, you will receive a credit to use with the airline. This credit may have restrictions or expiration dates, which can limit its usefulness. Unless you have a specific need for a refundable fare, such as uncertain travel plans, it's best to opt for a non-refundable ticket and save on unnecessary costs.
In some cases, you may still be able to make changes or cancel your flight without penalty within 24 hours of booking, even on non-refundable tickets. This is a common practice mandated by the US Department of Transportation. It's always a good idea to double-check the airline's specific policies regarding cancellations and changes before making your final booking decision.
Checking Out Available Routes and Stopovers
When planning your trip, it's important to consider all the available routes and stopovers to your destination. Many travelers tend to prefer direct flights as they are often more convenient and time-saving. However, taking a flight with a stopover can sometimes be more cost-effective.
Flight pairings with a stopover are sometimes cheaper than non-stop flights. This is because airlines may offer discounted prices for flights that have a layover. While it may take longer to reach your destination, the savings can make it worthwhile. Additionally, the stopover can also provide an opportunity to explore a new city or country, adding an extra adventure to your journey.
When searching for flights, be sure to compare different route options and consider the cost savings of a stopover. Keep in mind that certain long-haul flights may naturally include a stopover, so it's worth exploring those options as well. By being open to different routes and stopovers, you may be able to find a more affordable and enjoyable travel experience.
