When trying to book a last minute trip, your number one concern is not spending twice or triple the amount you normally would if you booked in advance.
Here are some tips and tricks on how to go about booking a trip without spending a fortune:
- Search for flights in incognito mode. Some websites are known to raise prices if you have searched for the same fight more than once.
- Check out the deals section. For example, if you head over to Expedia.com, look for the “Deals” tab for the best options for last minute flights + hotels.
- Search for single person tickets. Even if you’re traveling in a group, still search for one ticket at a time. When you book two or more seats, all of the seats are sold at the highest rate.
- Check your Tuesday emails from airlines you might subscribe to. Airlines are known to cut prices when they can’t fill planes for an upcoming weekend trip.
- Check Twitter and Facebook. Airlines have been experimenting with blasting fares via social media, especially Jet Blue.
- Become a frequent flier. Become an elite member of an airline’s frequent-flier program or use a credit card that’s tied to the airline to get earn extra perks and incentives.
- Fly two different airlines. Sometimes it’s worth it to mix and match. Most airlines now sell one-way flights at reasonable prices, meaning one might be cheaper for the outbound flight while the other works better for the return.
- Fly out early. The first flight of the morning tends to be the cheapest. If you can’t score a morning flight, try flight times are during or after lunch or around dinner time.
- Search for deals in the morning. Early morning is the time you’ll see the most deals.
- Be flexible. Try adding a couple days to your trip before or after peak travel days to lower the fare.
Have a tip that isn’t mentioned here? Leave a comment and tell us about it!
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