Cracking the Code: When Are Airline Tickets Cheapest?
As a frequent traveler, you must have come across varying airfare prices for the same airline journey. Does this often make you wonder what makes airlines prices vary so much? The answer can be anything from travel dates to airline routes to even the day of purchase, and it’s essential to understand this to make the most out of every penny you spend.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the different factors affecting the cost of flights and the best time to purchase airline tickets.
The Different Factors Affecting the Airline Ticket Price:
Seasonality:
Prices are affected by seasons, with peak months such as June – August, December – January being the most expensive. You can save some money by booking outside these peak months, usually in the winter months.
Booking Time:
It’s often said that the earlier you book, the better the deal. But in reality, the best time to purchase an airline ticket depends on the airline policy. Some airlines do offer a better deal when you book earlier, while others wait for the last minute for their flight prices to go sky-high.
Airline Routes:
Airlines have different routes and inflight options, which help to determine the price of the ticket. It’s not unusual to find two airlines flying to the same location, but with very different rates.
Day of Purchase:
Booking on certain days of the week can have a significant impact on the ticket prices. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually known for their lower prices compared to other days.
Time of Purchase:
Just like the day of purchase, the time of purchase can determine the ticket prices. It’s recommended to book early in the day to avoid last-minute ticket rates hikes.
How to find the cheapest airline tickets:
Now that we’ve discussed the various factors driving airfares’ cost let’s look at some tips that can help you find the cheapest airline tickets:
Flexibility:
Being flexible with your travel dates can make a considerable difference in the cost of airline tickets. If you can adjust your travel period and destination airport, you can save a lot of money.
Comparison Sites:
Various comparison sites can help you compare airline tickets prices. They offer a one-stop solution instead of jumping from one airline website to another. Some examples are Kayak, Skyscanner, and Expedia.
Airline Notifications:
Many airlines offer notifications to keep you up-to-date on the latest offers and deals. If you’re not in a hurry, you can wait for these notifications to snag the best deals.
Round-Trip Tickets:
Booking round-trip tickets can save you more money than buying two one-way tickets. Plus, they can also save you the hassle of purchasing return tickets while at your destination.
Conclusion:
The bottom line is that anyone can crack the code to find cheaper airline tickets with a little time and effort. Be sure to monitor airline prices closely, use comparison sites, and stay flexible with your travel plans to get the best deal possible. Remember, it’s not only about the price, but also about the convenience of travel, inflight options and the overall flight experience.
