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From using cost comparison sites to booking on off hours and days, these hacks will help you get the best deals when booking air travel
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission for purchases made through links on this page.
Booking travel can be both an exciting and stressful experience (see our experience with Booking.com as evidence). As you plan your next escapadeEagerly anticipating the adventures that await you amid the excitement is often the daunting struggle of finding the best price and the most ideal day and time to book your flights. Navigating the ever-changing airfare landscape can be a challenging task with countless variables at play. Learning to utilize the different tools and resources at your disposal can be a valuable skill that can lead to significant savings on your travel costs.
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In this guide to booking air travel, we explore the key insights and strategies tailored to help you secure the best deals on your flights.
Knowledge is the key.
Before we delve into the details of timing, it’s essential that you have powerful tools at your disposal to find the best flight deals. Canadian travelers can take advantage of popular fare comparison websites such as Expedia.com, Skyscanner, Kayaking And Google flights. These platforms allow you to compare prices from different airlines and booking agencies, providing an excellent starting point for your flight search.
Midweek versus weekend booking.
The optimal day to book flights is a topic of much debate among travel experts. However, research shows that booking midweek, especially on Tuesdays, can deliver cost-effective results. Airlines often release their discounted fares on Mondays, and while other airlines catch up on their price adjustments, competitive deals can be found on Tuesdays. On the other hand, airfares tend to be highest on Fridays and weekends due to increased demand that corresponds to when people are free on weekends.
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“Last minute deals” may be a thing of the past.
The concept of the ‘Prime Booking Window’ has proven to be a useful guideline for travelers, which typically takes place three to five months and three to six weeks before your departure date. Airlines tend to offer competitive prices during these periods as they tend to fill up their flights without resorting to last-minute discounts.
Flexibility can save money.
Flexibility with your travel dates can have a significant impact on your flight costs, even if it’s just a few days. Companies like it Expedia.com, Air Canada And WestJet all offer within their search function the ability to select the option to view alternative dates and prices, with flight prices often listed two to three days before and after the day you originally entered into the search.
Traveling outside of peak or shoulder seasons can also provide significant savings. In addition, midweek flights are generally cheaper than weekend flights.
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The benefits of flying to or from alternative airports.
For those living in cities with multiple airports, exploring options from alternative airports can lead to significant savings. The same concept applies to the destination you want to fly to. Check out the airports and flight offerings of the surrounding regions to see if there is a better option. As an added bonus, you may be able to explore an additional area that you might not otherwise have. Just make sure you factor in any additional travel costs to these airports when comparing prices.
Check this during the “free” hours.
While the day of the week can be crucial, the time you make your flight reservation can also affect the ticket price. Many experts recommend booking flights in the early morning or late evening, as airlines tend to release new fares and seat inventory during these hours. Expect rate updates around 1am or 11pm, when they are more likely to be available.
Be proactive.
To stay ahead of the game, consider signing up for fare alerts from various booking websites and airlines. These alerts keep you informed of any price drops or special offers for your chosen destinations. Popular platforms such as Google flights And FlightHub offer customizable fare alerts so you can snag discounted flights as they become available. It’s important to act quickly too, as rates change often and without warning.
Stay informed with The Shopping Essential travel guide.
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