I’ve written about finding a cheap flight before — and even my process for booking a flight — but today I want to talk about some persistent and inaccurate myths about booking a flight that have stuck around through simple inertia and lazy journalism. There are a lot of articles out there that list “secret tips” claiming to save you thousands. “If you book a flight on a Tuesday during a blood moon while standing on one leg, you’ll get the cheapest flight possible!”
Key Takeaways
- To get cheap airlines tickets in booking, incognito mode does not guarantee cheaper fares.
- Airlines do not necessarily charge couples more for booking together.
- The ‘two seats left’ alert is often a marketing tactic rather than a true indicator of availability.
- Booking on specific weekdays, like Tuesday, does not always result in the cheapest fares.
- Google Flights is a useful tool but not always the cheapest option for finding air tickets.
The Incognito Mode Myth
Why People Believe It
We’ve all heard it before: if you want to snag the lowest prices on flights, you should book in incognito mode. The idea is that airlines track your search habits and jack up prices when they see you repeatedly searching for the same route. It makes sense, right? After all, every company seems to be tracking our online habits these days.
The Reality Behind It
No, you can’t get cheaper flights using incognito mode. Numerous studies by booking companies have shown that there is no variance in pricing when you use incognito mode. Airlines are not making flights more expensive by tracking your search habits. In fact, when you abandon your cart, businesses often discount prices to get you to complete your purchase, not raise them higher.
Better Alternatives
Instead of relying on incognito mode, here are some better ways to find cheap flights:
- Set fare alerts: Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to set alerts for price drops on your desired routes.
- Book in advance: While last-minute deals can be found, booking a few months ahead often yields better prices.
- Be flexible: Sometimes flying a day earlier or later can make a big difference in price.
Instead of wasting time on myths, focus on proven strategies to get the best deals on flights.
The Couple’s Fare Fallacy
Understanding the Myth
Many people believe that airlines charge couples more when they book together. You see there are plenty of open seats available on a flight; why can’t you get two at the same price? The answer is a little inside baseball.
What Really Happens
Airlines don’t price every seat on a plane the same, even ones in the same category (economy, business, etc.). Instead, seats are divided into different reservation booking designators (RBDs), or “fare buckets.” Different seat types come with different prices. So, when you search for two seats together, you might end up with seats from different fare buckets, making it seem like you’re being charged more.
How to Save as a Couple
- Book separately: Sometimes, booking one seat at a time can get you a better deal.
- Check different devices: Prices can vary based on whether you’re searching on your phone or laptop.
- Use alerts: Set up price alerts to get notified when fares drop.
Prices change much more nowadays than they used to as airlines have gotten better at price discrimination.
By understanding how airlines price their seats, you can make more informed decisions and potentially save money on your next trip.
The ‘Two Seats Left’ Scare Tactic
Origins of the Myth
We’ve all seen it: “Only two seats left!” It’s a classic move to create a sense of urgency. The idea is to light a fire under customers to buy before it’s too late. But is it really a lie?
Is It True?
Well, yes and no. When airlines say there are only two seats left, they mean two seats left at that price. It’s not a total fabrication, but it’s definitely a marketing tool. Many times, the last ticket in the cheapest fare bucket just got sold, so now the new cheapest ticket is in a higher fare bucket, which might be $50 or $100 more expensive. Sneaky, eh?
How to Handle Limited Seat Alerts
So, what should you do when you see these alerts? Here are some tips:
- Don’t Panic: Remember, it’s often just a tactic to get you to buy quickly.
- Check Multiple Sites: Sometimes other platforms might still have the cheaper fare.
- Set Alerts: Use fare alert tools to keep an eye on price drops.
- Be Flexible: If your dates are flexible, you might find better deals.
Pro Tip: Always double-check the final price before hitting that purchase button. Sometimes, the extra fees can make a seemingly good deal not so great.
In the end, understanding these tactics can help you make more informed decisions and avoid falling for these common tricks.
Weekday Booking Beliefs
We’ve all heard it: “Book your flights on a Tuesday for the best deals!” This idea comes from a time when airlines used to drop their prices on Tuesdays to encourage purchasing. But guess what? That practice fell off a long time ago, yet the legend lives on.
So, does the Tuesday theory still hold any water? Not really. Flight prices fluctuate depending on the flight date, destination, booking date, and more. There’s no magic day to book your flights. Instead, focus on flying mid-week and off-season if you can. That’s where you’ll find the real savings.
Forget the myths and focus on the facts. According to recent studies, the best time to book your flight is usually between three weeks to four months in advance. Here’s a quick guide:
- 3-4 months in advance: Best for international flights.
- 1-3 months in advance: Ideal for domestic flights.
- Last-minute: Risky but sometimes rewarding.
The key takeaway? Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to snagging cheap airfare. Don’t get hung up on specific days; instead, keep an eye on overall trends and be ready to pounce when you see a good deal.
Google Flights: The Cheapest Option?
Why Google Flights is Popular
Google Flights has become a go-to for many travelers looking to find cheap flight options & track prices. It’s super user-friendly and offers a wide range of features that make it easy to search for flights, compare prices, and even track fare changes over time. One of the standout features is the ability to explore destinations and see the best prices available, which is perfect for those who are flexible with their travel plans.
Comparing Different Platforms
While Google Flights is popular, it’s important to note that aggregator sites don’t set prices. This means that the prices you see on Google Flights are set by the airlines or third-party booking sites like Orbitz or CheapOair. So, while Google Flights offers a comprehensive view of available flights, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll always find the cheapest option there. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across multiple platforms, including Skyscanner, Kayak, and directly on airline websites.
Finding the Best Deals
Your best bet for finding the best deals is to be proactive. Buy the ticket when you see the right price and keep an eye on fares for price dips until your departure. If you’ve booked with miles or a changeable or refundable ticket, you can cancel your higher-priced ticket and rebook at the lower rate. Google Flights has even added a low-price guarantee, but make sure to read the fine print to understand the terms and conditions.
The key to finding the best deals is flexibility and vigilance. Use tools like Google Flights to explore your options, but don’t rely solely on one platform. Always compare and keep an eye out for price changes.
The Early Bird Gets the Worm?
Booking Months in Advance
Sure, booking early has its perks – a smorgasbord of seat choices, flexible flight times, and an array of options to tailor your journey. It’s a comfort zone for those seeking peace of mind. However, let’s debunk the myth that early booking equals budget-friendly flights.
Is It Worth It?
Like many myths, this one sprouted from a grain of truth—the once-common practice whereby airlines “loaded” their fares into their reservation computers, with the highest volume of deals often landing on Mondays, meaning there’d be more low fares to snap up the following day, according to William J. McGee, aviation adviser to Consumer Reports.
Optimal Booking Times
Let’s tackle Flight Booking Myth #4: the notion that booking as early as possible is the golden ticket to affordable flights. It’s a belief deeply ingrained in the minds of many travelers, leading them to secure their seats months in advance. But it’s not necessarily the best choice.
Last-Minute Booking Myths
We’ve all heard the tales of scoring a last-minute deal that seems too good to be true. But is it really? Let’s dive into the myths and realities of last-minute bookings.
Non-Stop vs. Layover Flights
When it comes to booking flights, the choice between non-stop and layover flights can be a tough one. Let’s break it down.
Cost Comparison
Many people believe that connecting flights are always cheaper than non-stop flights. This isn’t always true. While connecting flights can often be less expensive, there are times when they might even cost more. It’s essential to compare both options to find the best deal.
Time vs. Money
Non-stop flights are generally more convenient as they get you to your destination without any interruptions. However, this convenience comes at a price. Layover flights, on the other hand, might save you some money but can add hours to your trip and increase the chances of delays or missed connections.
Making the Best Choice
To make the best choice, consider the following:
- Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, a layover flight might be the way to go.
- Time: If time is of the essence, a non-stop flight is your best bet.
- Flexibility: If you have a flexible schedule, you might find better deals by comparing both options.
Sometimes, enduring a longer connecting flight can save 50% or more over the price of a non-stop.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Happy flying!
Class Upgrades and Savings
Economy vs. Business
When it comes to flying, the difference between economy and business class can be night and day. In business class, you get more legroom, better food, and often a lie-flat seat. But is it worth the extra cost? For some, the answer is a resounding yes, especially on long-haul flights where comfort is key. However, for others, the price difference can be hard to justify.
When to Upgrade
Timing is everything when it comes to scoring a good deal on a class upgrade. Airlines often offer discounted upgrades at check-in or even at the gate. If you’re flexible and willing to take a chance, you might snag a business class seat for a fraction of the usual cost. Keep an eye out for these last-minute offers; they can be a game-changer.
Finding Affordable Upgrades
There are several strategies to find affordable upgrades. One way is to use frequent flyer miles to upgrade your seat. Another is to bid for an upgrade if your airline offers this option. Some airlines also have special promotions where you can get a business class seat for a reduced price. Websites and apps that track flight deals can also alert you to these opportunities. For example, some airlines like Aer Lingus and Delta Air Lines are known for offering good deals on business class upgrades.
Upgrading to business class doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can enjoy the perks of a higher class without the hefty price tag.
The Overweight Bag Dilemma
Common Beliefs
We’ve all been there, trying to cram as much as possible into that free carry-on bag. But here’s the thing: not all carry-ons are free, especially on budget airlines like Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit. Plus, more airlines are posting size and weight limits for carry-ons. If your bag is too big or too heavy, airline reps will take it from you to stow in cargo. You might even get dinged for a checked-bag fee or worse, an overweight bag fee, which can be up to $200 on domestic flights.
Real Costs
So, what are the size and weight limits for bags? Generally, overweight items may not exceed the maximum overweight limit of 100lbs (45kg) and are subject to overweight baggage charges beginning at 51lbs (23 kg). Always check your airline’s specific policies to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Tips to Avoid Extra Fees
- Use a squashy, duffle-type bag that can conform to most size limits.
- Remove all must-haves from the bag like electronics, charger cords, and medications and carry these items on your person.
- Weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport.
- Consider wearing some of your heavier clothing items to reduce the weight of your luggage.
A little planning can save you a lot of money and hassle. Don’t let overweight baggage fees ruin your trip!
Open Door Policies and Pricing
What Are Open Door Policies?
Open door policies in the airline industry are designed to increase competition by allowing more airlines to operate at major airports. This can mean more options for us travelers, but it’s not always straightforward. The idea is to open the door for more competition to make flying easier and cheaper. However, the reality is that these policies can sometimes lead to a complex web of pricing strategies.
Impact on Ticket Prices
You might think that more competition would automatically lower prices, but that’s not always the case. Airlines use dynamic pricing and artificial intelligence to constantly change their pricing. The algorithms consider a variety of factors: historical and current demand, seasons, itinerary, level of competition from other airlines, fare class, timing, fuel prices, and more. So, while open door policies aim to make flights cheaper, the actual impact on ticket prices can be unpredictable.
Airline Strategies
Airlines won’t spill the secret sauce behind their pricing strategies. We reached out to most of the major U.S. carriers about their sales strategies and didn’t get much to solve our sneaking suspicions. According to a Hawaiian Airlines spokesperson, prices for available seats generally go up as more are sold, as the date of departure approaches, or in response to pricing changes by competitors. This means that even with open door policies, the pricing dance remains a complex one.
It is understandable when faced with a change in pricing that our customers might attribute the change to their individual actions, but that is not the case.
So, while open door policies aim to make flying more affordable, the reality is that the pricing strategies of airlines are influenced by a myriad of factors, making it a bit of a gamble for us travelers.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! The world of cheap airlines tickets is filled with myths and misconceptions that can easily lead you astray. From the idea that booking in incognito mode will get you a better deal, to the belief that airlines charge couples more, we’ve debunked some of the most persistent myths out there. The truth is, there are no magic tricks or secret hacks that will guarantee you the lowest fare. Instead, it’s all about staying informed, comparing prices, and being flexible with your travel plans. So next time you’re booking a flight, remember: knowledge is your best travel companion. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that booking flights in incognito mode guarantees cheaper prices?
No, booking flights in incognito mode does not guarantee cheaper prices. Airlines and travel websites do not change prices based on your browser history or cookies.
Do airlines charge more for couples booking together?
No, airlines do not charge more for couples booking together. However, the pricing can vary based on seat availability, which may give the impression of higher costs for couples.
Is the ‘two seats left’ alert a marketing tactic?
Yes, the ‘two seats left’ alert is often a marketing tactic used to create a sense of urgency. While it can sometimes be true, it’s not always an accurate reflection of availability.
Is it cheaper to book flights on weekdays, specifically on Tuesdays?
The idea that flights are cheapest on Tuesdays is a myth. Flight prices fluctuate constantly and are influenced by various factors, not just the day of the week.
Are Google Flights the cheapest option for booking air tickets?
Google Flights is a popular tool for comparing prices, but it does not always offer the cheapest fares. It’s best to compare multiple platforms to find the best deal.
Is booking flights months in advance always cheaper?
Booking flights months in advance is not always cheaper. While early bookings can sometimes offer lower prices, the best time to book varies depending on the route and season.
Are last-minute flight deals a reliable way to save money?
Last-minute flight deals can sometimes offer savings, but they are risky and not guaranteed. It’s better to book in advance to secure a good price.
Is it more cost-effective to choose layover flights over non-stop flights?
Layover flights are often cheaper than non-stop flights, but they come with the trade-off of longer travel times. The best choice depends on your priorities for cost and convenience.
