02 January 2024 , 11:02
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Knowing when to buy and how to hide yourself from sneaky airline pricing tricks could save you a packet when looking for cheap flights.
On cold, damp January days, casting your mind to a warmer, sunnier place can be a helpful and much needed way to banish the gloom. Given the state of many people's bank accounts post festivities, getting a good deal is key. The demand for travel since the Covid pandemic has led to a steep rise in airline ticket prices around the world. Air fares rose by 20% between April and May 2023 alone, with some of the highest rises for European flights.
Luckily, there are still deals to be found - and the experts at FlightsFinder.com have shared some of their best travel tips for keeping costs low when booking a holiday.
Booking on the wrong day of the week can prove costly (Getty Images)Shahab Siddiqui, founder of FlightsFinder.com said: "With the cost of living taking a toll on people’s budget and flight fares increasing by a staggering 20%, those hoping to get away on the cheap are concerned. Even so-called budget airlines are increasing prices, and combined with the cost of additional add-ons like luggage, booking a holiday can be excruciatingly expensive. Brits should watch out for any last-minute deals for getaways while the boxing day sales are on."
Go incognito
While it doesn’t always make a difference, searching in incognito or private mode may drive down prices for flights by stopping airlines from clocking that you're as keen a customer as you may be.
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Use a VPN
Downloading a VPN can unlock lower airline prices as some holiday companies use location data, as well as other browsing habits, to alter on-screen prices. VPNs can make it appear as if you are in any country, opening up a much bigger range of potential bargains.
Compare airline prices
It’s not always just the budget airlines which provide the best prices, especially if you're willing to alter your route or fly from a different departure airport. It is always worth searching around to find which deals work best for you and considering a connecting flight, which could knock hundreds off the overall travel price.
Discount codes
Checking for discount codes online is a quick and easy way to bring down costs. Check airline social media sites, dedicated coupon websites and travel forums. Students, NHS staff and the military may also be able to get unique perks.
Book mid-week
Tuesday and Wednesday nights are often the best times to book the cheapest flights, with midnight recommended as the right time to secure a top bargain. This is because airline tickets are sold on through an elastic, demand led system which sees prices rise and fall at different times.
Check last-minute choices
Sometimes flight providers bring down costs to fill empty seats or cancellations just before a plane is due to depart. This is unlikely to be the case during peak travel and holiday seasons, so it is best to book in advance for popular destinations. If you are happy to travel in a less popular time of the year and are able to hold your nerve, then booking later may save you some cash.