Are You Ready for the Holidays? Don’t Miss These Insider Tips for Scoring Cheap Flights!

As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are searching for ways to secure affordable flights without draining their wallets. With ticket prices soaring higher than ever — a staggering increase of 14% on average for domestic flights compared to last year — finding a great deal can feel overwhelming. But fear not! Travel expert Lorraine Simpson has shared some game-changing tips that could help you save hundreds on your upcoming holiday journeys.

1. Flexibility is Key!

One of the most effective strategies for landing cheaper flights is to remain flexible with your travel dates. By utilizing the 'flexible dates' feature on flight booking websites, you can spot days with lower fares. Simpson warns that weekends tend to be pricier, so consider planning your trips mid-week to cash in on better deals. Additionally, flying out of a nearby city, like Montreal or Toronto if you're in Ottawa, could lead to massive savings. A short drive might be a small investment for a significant return!

2. Set Price Alerts and Stay Alert!

Take advantage of price alert options available on platforms like Google Flights. These alerts will notify you when fares drop for your desired route. But don’t just wait passively — when you receive an alert, act quickly! 'Jump on that right away, that's your best bet,' advises Simpson.

3. Incognito Mode: Fact or Fiction?

There’s a longstanding myth that using incognito mode in your browser can help you evade higher prices from airlines tracking your searches. Simpson clarifies that while airlines likely aren’t directly monitoring your behavior, frequent searches for a destination can lead to price inflation. Therefore, switching to incognito might still be beneficial to ensure you’re seeing the most competitive prices.

4. Don’t Wait Too Long to Book!

Timing is everything in the world of air travel. Simpson strongly recommends booking your flights well in advance — up to 191 days before departure, if possible. Waiting until six weeks prior can be a gamble, as prices tend to peak closer to travel dates. Monitor ticket prices leading up to your booking window to catch any potential sales. For instance, after a recent pilot strike was averted, Air Canada offered discounted fares that savvy travelers quickly snatched up.

5. Social Media Sneak Peeks

Keep an eye on social media and travel blogs for flash sales and promotional fares. Airlines often announce secret sales on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, providing a prime opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to grab deals before they vanish.

Bonus Tip: Consider Alternative Airports

If you're willing to travel a bit further, check for flights from secondary airports around major hubs. Sometimes the savings can be significant, especially during the peak holiday rush.

In these uncertain times as the travel industry continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, employing these strategies can make a substantial difference in your holiday travel budget. Making informed decisions about your airline selections and booking practices can open up a world of possibilities this festive season. Don't let the rising airfares ground your holiday cheer — take action today and book that dream getaway!