Air travel could be getting more expensive soon. Following multiple safety incidents, including the door of an Alaska Airlines 737 Max detaching after takeoff, Boeing is expected to produce fewer new planes this year. As a result, airlines may have to cut back on the availability of flights.
This means that travelers will likely end up paying increased prices for fewer flight options. If you’re hoping to get away for the summer, consider booking your flight now.
Here’s what you need to know about getting cheap plane tickets. From the cheapest day to fly to our picks for the best travel credit cards, we’ll give you the tips you need to find affordable flights.
Read more: After 500 Flights, This Travel Expert Shares His Best Saving Secrets
Book your flights for the middle of the week
If you’ve been scheduling your flights to take off and land on the weekend, you’re doing it all wrong. According to a recent Google study, flying during the middle of the week will get you the best deal. On those days, tickets are roughly 12% to 20% cheaper than flying on a weekend day.
For economy tickets, prices on Tuesday and Wednesday are generally 24% lower than peak prices, saving you roughly $85 per ticket, CNET’s Sophia Fox-Sowell reports.
The most expensive day to fly? Sunday. Avoid scheduling flights for this day if you want to save money.
Book one-way flights instead of round trips
Booking one-way flights may not be as convenient as round-trip tickets, but it gives you more options to choose from. You can book through different airlines for the best prices on the days you plan on flying. For instance, Delta may be cheaper flying to your destination, but American may be cheaper coming back.
“There have been many cases where booking two one-way flights with two different airlines is less expensive than booking a round trip with a single airline,” according to The Points Guy, a sister site of CNET.
Also, you can use frequent flyer miles and travel rewards points from credit cards to save even more money.
Choose a budget airline
If you’re looking to save a little bit more money when flying, consider booking through a budget airline. They’re generally cheaper than larger airlines like United and Delta and can save you several hundred dollars.
However, you’ll likely have to pay additional fees for carry-on bags and other amenities that are generally free through other airlines. You’ll also be assigned a random seat unless you pay to choose your seat, which can be inconvenient if you’re flying with a group and you want to sit together.
Here’s a list of the budget airlines in the US:
For more travel tips, learn whether travel insurance is worth the cost and expert tips for picking and packing carry-on luggage.
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