Make sure your holiday budget goes as far as it can with our tips and advice on how to secure the very best airfares for every single trip;
Check, check and check again – Airfare costs can vary hugely and can depend on so many factors. Check several comparison websites, check airline websites direct and check on blogs, forums and comments for other fliers’ tips. And as airfares can be updated several times a day, it pays to check flight costs a few times a day as cheaper seats may become available.
Be Flexible – If you’re flexible about what time and indeed on which day you fly, you can find a great deal. Try to travel out of peak hours, not on peak days (try a Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday for great airfares) and out of school holidays. Run searches that scan dates over a 30 day period to know where the best deals are.
Package it – Very often an airfare, hotel and even car hire combo can work out cheaper than just a flight.
Early v late – For the best choice and early booking discounts then book as early as you can. To get a great deal then book late but do have a plan b, just in case!
Airmiles – If you’ve earned airmiles, or frequent flier miles, then check whether they can be redeemed. Use them or lose them – they will expire at some point.
Subscribe – Subscribe to emails from your chosen airlines and travel websites and you’ll be the first to hear about any discounts or offers. For instant updates and exclusive offers, follow airlines and travel companies on social networking sites such as twitter and facebook.
Extras – Compare how much the extras (luggage, meals etc) will cost, which will help you compare flight costs more efficiently.
Get Connected – Yes a direct flight can save you a few hours but connecting flights will often work out cheaper with one stop or more stops (and offers more shopping opportunities!). And check out the individual fares for each leg of the journey as the two flights booked separately may be cheaper than booked as one package.
And add your own tips in the comments below…
