Air travel prices expected to rise in 2024, following Boeing price hike security incidents and the expected decrease in the production of new aircraft. As a result, airlines would have had to reduce flight availabilityincluding potentially less busy routes or routes with multiple options per day. However, with a few exceptions, prices have actually gone down this year.
If you’re planning on flying soon, consider booking your flight now to save money. With summer travel starting to wind down and the industry reeling from increased fleet safety scrutiny, now may be the perfect time to score cheap flights.
Here's what you need to know to get plane tickets for less than the most expensive ticket price. cheapest day to fly to our choices for the best travel credit cardswe'll give you the tips you need to get affordable flights.
Learn more: After 500 flights, this travel expert shares his best secrets for saving money
Book your midweek flights
If you've scheduled your flights to depart and land on the weekend, you're doing it wrong. According to a recent Google study, flying midweek will get you the best deals. On those days, tickets are about 12 to 20 percent cheaper than weekend flights.
For economy class tickets, Tuesday and Wednesday prices are generally 24% less than peak pricessaving you about $85 per ticket, reports CNET's Sophia Fox-Sowell.
The most expensive day to fly? Sunday. Avoid booking a flight on this day if you want to save money.
Book one-way flights instead of round trips – with a twist
Booking a one-way flight may not be as convenient as round-trip tickets, but it does give you more choice. You can book with different airlines to get the best prices on the days you plan to fly. For example, Delta may be cheaper to get to your destination, but American may be cheaper to return.
“There have been many cases where booking two one-way flights with two different airlines was cheaper than booking a round trip with one airline,” according to The Points Guya sister site to CNET.
You can also use loyalty miles and travel reward points from credit cards to save even more money.
Choose a low-cost airline
If you want to save a little more money when flying, consider booking with a budget airline. They are typically cheaper than major airlines like United and Delta and can save you several hundred dollars.
However, you will likely have to pay extra fees for carry-on bags and other services that are usually free with other airlines. You will also be randomly assigned a seat unless you pay to choose your seat, which can be inconvenient if you are traveling with a group and want to sit together. You will need to make sure to add up the individual costs and taxes to make sure you are actually saving money.
That said, for a suitable trip and a suitable traveler, packing your own water and snacks and carrying fewer clothes and gear could save you hundreds of dollars if you're willing to give up some comforts. Short-haul flights and casual weekend getaways are particularly suited to budget airlines.
Here is a list of low cost airlines in the United States:
For more travel tips, Find out if travel insurance is worth the cost And Expert Tips for Choosing and Packing Carry-On Luggage.
The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective and independent assessments by our editors and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by a third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.
