10 Hidden Tricks Airlines Don’t Want You to Know About Booking Flights
Booking flights can be overwhelming. With fluctuating prices, hidden fees, and tons of options, it’s easy to feel like you're being taken for a ride. But what if I told you there are tricks airlines don’t want you to know—methods that can save you hundreds and make your flight booking experience smoother? In this blog, I’m going to reveal 10 hidden tricks that airlines would rather keep a secret. Let’s dive in and get you booking like a travel Pro!
1. Book Flights on a Tuesday or Wednesday
While most travelers book their flights over the weekend, airlines tend to release fare discounts early in the week. Studies show that Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have the lowest prices. Why? Airlines are trying to fill unsold seats from weekend promotions. So, book your flights midweek to snag the best deals.
2. Use Incognito Mode When Searching
Ever notice that the price of a flight goes up after you've searched for it a few times? Airlines and travel sites use cookies to track your browsing behavior. To avoid this, search for flights in incognito mode (private browsing). This way, the site won’t know you’re looking at the same flight, and you’ll see the lowest possible price.
3. Clear Your Cookies and Cache
In case you forgot to use incognito mode, there’s still hope. Clear your browser’s cookies and cache before revisiting a flight search. This resets your browsing history and makes it appear like a new search. You might find that prices go back down once you do this.
4. Book 6-8 Weeks in Advance
There’s a sweet spot when it comes to booking flights, and it’s typically 6-8 weeks before your departure date. At this point, airlines have a good idea of how well their flights are selling, and they may drop prices to fill remaining seats. Waiting until the last minute often results in higher prices as demand spikes.
5. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
If your schedule allows, try being flexible with your travel dates. Airlines charge higher prices on peak days like Fridays and Sundays. Flying on off-peak days, such as Tuesdays or Wednesdays, can often save you a significant amount. Use the “flexible dates” feature on travel booking platforms to see how adjusting your departure by just a day or two can affect the price.
6. Sign Up for Price Alerts
Setting up price alerts is one of the easiest ways to save money on flights. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak allow you to track the price of a specific flight. If the price drops, you’ll get an email notification, giving you the opportunity to grab the deal before it’s gone.
7. Don’t Pay for Seat Selection
Airlines make a hefty profit by charging for seat selection. But here’s the trick: You don’t need to pay for a seat assignment. If you’re traveling alone or on a short flight, skipping paid seat selection won’t drastically impact your comfort. Airlines will automatically assign you a seat for free at check-in. Want more control over your seat choice? Check-in as early as possible to increase your chances of getting a decent spot.
8. Look for Hidden City Ticketing
This is a sneaky trick that airlines don’t like. Hidden city ticketing involves booking a flight with a layover in your intended destination and simply getting off the plane there. For example, if you want to fly from New York to Chicago, you might find it cheaper to book a flight from New York to Denver with a layover in Chicago. Just hop off in Chicago and skip the final leg of the journey. Be aware, this tactic isn’t without risks—such as losing your luggage if it’s checked through to the final destination.
9. Use Regional Airports
Major airports often come with premium prices. Instead of booking a flight to a popular hub, check flights into nearby regional airports. Many low-cost airlines operate from smaller airports and offer significantly cheaper fares. Plus, regional airports are often less crowded, making your travel experience smoother and quicker.
10. Join Airline Loyalty Programs
Even if you don’t travel frequently, joining airline loyalty programs can offer some fantastic benefits. You can accumulate miles or points with each flight, leading to discounts or even free flights in the future. Some programs also provide perks like free upgrades, priority boarding, and access to exclusive lounges. Don’t forget to sign up for these programs before booking to maximize your rewards.
Conclusion
Armed with these 10 hidden tricks, you can outsmart airlines and save big on your next flight. Whether it’s booking on the right day, using incognito mode, or taking advantage of regional airports, these tips will ensure that your next trip is both budget-friendly and hassle-free. Now that you’re in the know, go ahead and book that dream flight—without the hidden costs or the stress.
