In a utopian world, you can pack your bags and travel whenever the urge strikes you. But in a realistic world, this is far from possible. One of the main hurdles that prevent you from encouraging your wanderlust is the exorbitant flight fares. Sure, we can’t avoid it entirely, but there are definitely many easy hacks that help you get cheaper flights. These are some tips that are up our sleeves:
Search for flights in incognito or private browsing mode
Every time you search for flight tickets for a particular route, the prices hike up. You would worry that the prices will further shoot up and immediately seal your booking. Big mistake! Searching incognito is the way to go.
Be flexible with dates
We understand that sometimes you have compulsions beyond your control, such as availability of leave, pre-scheduled events, school reopening etc. But when you are not bogged down by such compulsions, always do your research and pick a day with the cheapest flight rates. If you are open to travelling a few days earlier or later, you may bag cheap air tickets.
Look for alternate airports
Sometimes, there is more than one airport close to the destination you are flying to. The flight ticket fares to each airport are likely to vary. Hence, check for different options before choosing the airport you are flying to, and pick the cheapest one.
Don’t dread the layover
We know that everyone loves a direct flight. It is no fun waiting at the airport for long hours, but a non-direct flight is easier on your budget. But once you make peace with the idea of layovers, you would realise that it is actually enjoyable. Imagine spending 16 hours strapped into your seat on a long-haul flight! A layover gives you ample time to stretch and walk around. You can make it more pleasurable by taking an elaborate meal, shopping at the duty free outlets or indulging in a spa – depending on the facilities available at the airport.
Sign up for frequent flyer programmes
We recommend that you sign up for frequent flyer programmes with few of your most-preferred airlines. Even if the flight fares in these airlines are a little higher, sometimes it is better to book them, if you can accumulate miles. You can redeem these miles and save up on your travel in the long run.
Do the price comparison
There is a popular belief that booking a return ticket is cheaper than booking two single tickets. But this is not always the case. Booking return tickets leave you with fewer options, but single tickets give you the luxury of flexibility.
By: Neetu George