Photo by The Best Time to Book Your Flights for the Lowest Prices
Are you tired of overpaying for your flights? With so many travel tips and hacks circulating online, it can be difficult to know what really works. To help you get the best deal on your next trip, we spoke with George Hastings, Managing Director and Co-Founder at Ocean Holidays, to separate the myths from the truths.
Myth: Booking Last-Minute Flights Will Get You the Best Deal
Many of us have fallen for the myth that booking last-minute flights will get us the best deal. However, George reveals that this is simply not the case. In reality, booking at the last minute will rarely save you money, especially during peak travel times like Easter or summer holidays. To ensure you get the best prices, aim to book between 250-330 days before departure.
Booking in advance can save you up to 40% on long-haul flights.
Myth: Booking Flights on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday Will Get You a Cheaper Deal
You may have heard that booking flights on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday can get you a cheaper deal. While this is somewhat true, George explains that Saturdays are not the best day to find a deal, as many people travel on this day. However, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are good days for securing deals, as hotels usually have better offers midweek and flights are typically cheapest on these days.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are good days for securing deals.
Truth: Flying Indirect Can Save You Hundreds of Pounds
Mastering the art of layovers can not only get you some extra sightseeing in but also save you up to 40% off your flights! George reveals that flying indirect can save you hundreds of pounds, and you can even get a free stopover. For example, if you’re traveling to Orlando but fancy a couple of nights in New York, this is already included in your indirect flight price, so you can just add on the cost of your accommodation.
Flying indirect can save you up to 40% off your flights.
Myth: The Time of Day You Fly Can Make the Price Cheaper
While the time of day you fly can impact how much you feel the jet lag, George explains that the time of day you fly doesn’t affect the price of the flight for longer flights. However, for shorter flights, this can be a good way to save a bit extra on your ticket.
The time of day you fly doesn’t affect the price of the flight for longer flights.
Truth: Flying to Smaller Airports Can Save You Cash
George suggests that flying to smaller airports can save you a good chunk off your flight cost. For example, if you’re traveling to Orlando, explore flights to Tampa instead. This could save you around £80-£100 per person, and if you’re already planning on renting a car, this can certainly be worth it.
Flying to smaller airports can save you a good chunk off your flight cost.
Other Money-Saving Hacks
Be flexible with the length of your stay. George suggests trying not to restrict yourself to the usual seven, ten, or fourteen-night holidays. Often, odd durations like nine or fifteen nights can be cheaper across flights and accommodation.
Book your attraction tickets at the same time as your hotel and flights. George recommends purchasing attraction tickets at the time of booking your package holiday, as the main theme parks within the region increase their prices often.
Avoid sporting events. George advises checking for any sporting events happening in the area, as this can impact travel and costs.
By following these tips and hacks, you can save money on your next trip and make the most of your holiday budget.
