3 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Flights (And How to Save More)

Booking cheap flights can feel like playing the lottery—prices fluctuate constantly, and it’s hard to know if you’re getting the best deal or paying too much. Many travelers unknowingly make simple mistakes that end up costing them more or causing them to miss out on better fares.

If you want to save money on airfare, here are three mistakes to avoid when booking flights—and what to do instead.

1. Waiting Too Long to Book

 

A common myth is that airlines slash prices at the last minute. While there are rare cases of last-minute deals, waiting too long to book usually means paying more. As flights fill up or demand increases, airlines raise prices accordingly.

For the best fares, aim to book:

• Domestic flights: 6-8 weeks in advance

• International flights: 2-6 months in advance

Not only will you lock in lower prices, but you’ll also have more flight options to choose from. So while the thrill of a last-minute bargain is tempting, planning ahead is almost always the better way to save.

2. Using the Wrong Flight Search Engines

 

Not all search engines show the same prices. Some don’t include budget airlines, while others add hidden fees that drive up the cost. Relying on just one search engine can cause you to miss cheaper flights available elsewhere.

For the best results, compare prices using multiple best flight search engines, such as:

• CheapoAir – Finds budget-friendly fares and exclusive deals.

• Google Flights – Tracks price trends and highlights the cheapest travel dates.

• Skyscanner – Compares flights across airlines, including budget carriers.

Pro Tip: After finding a great deal, check the airline’s official website. Sometimes, they offer discounts that third-party sites don’t.

3. Booking on the Wrong Days

Many don’t realize that the day they book and the day they fly can significantly impact ticket prices.

• Worst days to book: Weekends, especially Fridays, when airlines know people 

        are planning getaways.

• Best days to book: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when airlines often release

        lower fares.

Similarly, the days you fly matter too:

• Most expensive travel days: Fridays and Sundays

• Cheapest days to book flights and travel: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and

        Thursdays

If your schedule is flexible, choosing midweek flights can save you hundreds of dollars over time.

Don’t Make These Flight Booking Mistakes!

 

Avoiding these three common mistakes can help you land cheaper flights and travel smarter. Want to go even deeper? Check out Part 2, where we debunk flight booking myths and reveal even more insider tips to help you save.

Got any flight booking tips of your own? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear them! And before you go, don’t forget to check out my shop for must-have travel gear to make your next trip even smoother.

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