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As the summer tourism season winds down, the observance of National Affordable Airfare Day arrives, urging travelers to look for budget-friendly flights. Despite its name, this day doesn’t necessarily guarantee the lowest ticket prices.
Katy Nastro, a travel specialist at Going, emphasizes that, “There isn’t a single day when airfares hit their lowest. It’s simply a myth.”
According to Nastro, the optimal time to book flights varies depending on your intended travel dates. This ideal booking timeframe, known as the Goldilocks window, strikes a balance — it’s neither too early nor too late. For domestic trips, this window falls between one to three months before your departure, while for international journeys, it spans from two to eight months in advance.
However, snagging a deal on airfare involves more than just good timing. Here are three expert-recommended tactics for National Affordable Airfare Day:
Consistent research
If you’re contemplating a journey later in the year but aren’t ready to purchase tickets, start tracking flight prices early. Regularly checking fares can help you understand pricing trends and set a budget for your purchase.
Nastro suggests utilizing platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo to monitor and compare flight costs. “Exploring a variety of sources gives you a broader perspective on the price landscape, helping you spot the best deals over time,” she advises.
Gemma Jamieson, Senior Global PR Manager at Skyscanner, encourages thorough research. “Airlines are increasingly strategic in their pricing tactics, studying consumer behavior to fiercely compete in the market,” she notes. “Extended comparison shopping can lead to significant savings.”
Avoid last-minute booking
Procrastinating on booking your flight can be a costly error, particularly as your travel date approaches. “Prices generally rise as the travel season peaks, making last-minute bookings financially disadvantageous,” warns Nastro.
She clarifies a common misconception: “Airlines don’t just add flights at the last minute to accommodate demand. The availability of additional flights isn’t as flexible as some might think.”
Flexibility is key
Being open to various destinations and travel dates can lead to the most significant savings. “An open-minded approach has popularized destinations like Croatia, transforming them into mainstream vacation spots,” Jamieson explains.
Nastro agrees, “Flexibility is crucial in securing the best airfare deals.”
Also, consider flying with different airlines. Restricting yourself to airlines where you have loyalty points or status might mean missing out on cheaper or more convenient flights. “Expanding your choices can lead to surprisingly affordable options,” Nastro adds.
Jamieson suggests comparing one-way flights with different carriers to potentially discover more economical options. “Diversify your itinerary to optimize savings,” she recommends.
For those looking to enhance their financial skills, consider enrolling in financial management courses that offer practical strategies for increasing savings, getting out of debt, and investing for the future.
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