How to find the cheapest airfares as travel costs climb
While increased demand for travel, staff shortages and fuel prices are expected to keep driving up flight costs. But there are ways to save on airfares if you’re savvy.
National
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Aussies families can save hundreds of dollars when booking flights with a simple fix.
Comparison site Finder a family of four that doesn’t book their flights at peak season can save nearly $500 on domestic flights and $1600 on overseas flights.
It comes as Australians looking to travel should be prepared for prices to remain high with increased demand, staff shortages and fuel prices driving up the cost of flights.
Flight delays and cancellations are also on the rise with airlines, including Qantas, planning to reduce their capacity from September.
Finder travel expert Stephanie Yip said despite the hefty prices, there are still ways to fly relatively cheaply.
An analysis of Skyscanner for the cheapest deal found a cheap return flight from Sydney to Melbourne in May is around $130 per person compared to around $245 per person in the first two weeks of July.
For fares from Sydney to London, travellers can snag a return flight in May for around $1617 per person compared to around $2010 per person in the first two weeks of July.
Ms Yip said travellers can save $114 and $393 by travelling during off-peak seasons domestically and internationally.
“Avoiding the school holidays, if you can, is a great way to keep costs down as these are peak seasons that come with peak prices,” Ms Yip said.
“November and February are two of the cheaper months to travel that still have great weather in most parts of Australia.”
There are plenty of other steps you can take to put more money in your pocket.
Set up a price alert for destinations you have in mind to be notified whenever the fare changes.
Booking sites such as KAYAK and Skyscanner offer this feature, while airlines, including Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin, often send a reminder email about past searches.
“It’s actually a great time to book late 2022 and early 2023 flights as many sales have been released,” Ms Yip said.
Flights on the weekend are generally the most expensive and highest in demand.
“If you can fly out on a weekday that can really help to keep costs down. Tuesday is often the cheapest,” she said.
Book flights as early as possible. If you see a cheap international fare “don’t miss the opportunity.”
“The key is to book flights as early as possible. If you see a cheap international fare – don’t miss the opportunity.
If you can travel light, do so. Jetstar and Virgin both offer budget options for anyone who doesn’t need checked luggage, Ms Yip says.
And finally, take out travel insurance, it remains a must, Ms Yip insists.
“This will ensure you’re covered for cancellation costs, delays to luggage and any unexpected costs the airline might not cover such as prepaid accommodation”.
Originally published as How to find the cheapest airfares as travel costs climb
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