Unlock the Secrets of Affordable Airfare: Expert Tips from a Professional Deal Finder

Airfare prices are always in flux, which leads to a lot of confusion about when to book. Scott Keyes, founder of Going, a travel app that alerts users to airfare deals, has heard all the myths about finding the best ticket prices.

He notes that the old rules—like booking on Tuesday at 1 p.m. or Saturday at midnight—are not as reliable as they seem. “It’s a myth,” Keyes says, pointing out that the variety of so-called rules shows there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, he offers practical tips from years of experience in spotting flight deals.

1. Timing Matters More than Day

The ideal time to book doesn’t hinge on a specific day, but on how far in advance you plan. Keyes refers to the “Goldilocks window”—the sweet spot for booking:

• Domestic flights (off-peak): 1 to 3 months ahead
• Domestic flights (peak seasons): 3 to 6 months ahead
• International flights (off-peak): 2 to 8 months ahead
• International flights (peak seasons): 4 to 10 months ahead

2. Incognito Mode Isn’t the Solution

Many believe that using incognito mode will help them snag cheaper flights by hiding cookies from airlines. However, Keyes disputes this. “If price changes were based on repeated searches, we’d notice it in our daily tracking,” he explains. Surprisingly, they don’t see that happening.

3. Budget Airlines Can Save Money

Airlines like Spirit and Frontier are notorious for extra fees. However, their low base fares can be budget-friendly for travelers without checked bags. For instance, a Spirit flight from Portland to Las Vegas might cost $25, while a competitor could charge $130. Plus, budget airlines often offer nonstop flights to popular destinations.

4. Have a Backup Plan

Try to avoid flights with layovers when possible. If you must take a layover flight, know what options exist if things go wrong. Keyes cautions that budget airlines often lack partnerships to get you on a different flight if yours gets canceled, which can lead to long wait times. On the other hand, major airlines have more frequent flights, providing safer backup options.

5. Act Quickly on Great Deals

Keyes has learned that good fares don’t last long. “I found a round-trip deal to India for $212 once, and before I could book, it disappeared in 30 seconds,” he recalls. His advice? "Book first, ask questions later." Fortunately, U.S. airline regulations allow for a full refund within 24 hours of booking if you change your mind.

6. Flip Your Booking Approach

Most people search for flights by destination and date first. Instead, Keyes suggests starting with price. Here’s a quick process:

1. Look for the cheapest available flights.
2. Choose a destination from those deals.
3. Select your travel dates based on the price.

By changing the order of your search, you can find better deals than if you prioritize destinations first.

Additional Insights

A recent survey indicated that 62% of travelers withdraw from booking when prices fluctuate rapidly. This uncertainty can lead to missed opportunities. A study by the Airlines Reporting Corporation shows that domestic airfares were up by 14% compared to last year, making it even more crucial to act promptly on affordable fares.

In conclusion, the world of airfare can be confusing, but with the right strategies, you can save money. Remember, it’s all about timing, research, and being proactive when you spot a good deal.

For more insights on airfare trends, check out the Airlines Reporting Corporation.

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