Dubai: Attention UAE residents eager to score unbeatable flight deals! If a holiday trip is on your horizon, the time to plan is now. According to travel insights from Dubai-based Expedia, savvy travellers can enjoy substantial savings by booking their flights well in advance. Booking a month ahead can cut costs by an average of Dh2,470 compared to last-minute arrangements made in late September.
For those looking to save even more, Expedia reveals that October 13, 18, and 22 offer the best fares, potentially slashing prices by up to 50% compared to other dates in the same month. Additionally, Thursday is the most budget-friendly day for hotel stays this fall, making it an ideal time to plan your accommodations as well.
By strategically timing your bookings and following expert advice, you can maximise your savings and enhance your travel experience. Dive into these insider tips and make your next journey more affordable and enjoyable!
Timing is key: book your flights in advance
One of the most reliable ways to save money on flights is by booking them in advance. For domestic flights during peak seasons, it’s best to book three to seven months ahead, while international flights require even more foresight—typically four to ten months before departure.
If you’re travelling during the off-peak season, adjust this window to one to three months for domestic trips, and two to eight months for international ones.
Example in practice: A traveller closely monitored a fare to Las Vegas that consistently sat at $407. By waiting until mid-January, about two months before the trip, the fare dropped to $79. This savvy move saved 81% on the original cost, demonstrating the power of booking during the optimal window.
Follow the 21-day rule
Airlines often apply fare increases 21 days before a flight departs, meaning the lowest prices are only available if you book ahead of this deadline. It’s essential to set reminders to ensure you don’t miss this crucial window. Monitoring fares in advance and booking before this 21-day mark can lead to significant savings.
Split your journey: book one-way flights
Sometimes booking separate one-way flights with different airlines can be cheaper than booking a roundtrip ticket with a single carrier. This tactic can work particularly well for domestic flights, where different airlines may offer cheaper fares in one direction. By comparing prices for one-way tickets, travellers can find the most cost-effective options.
Choose non-stop and early flights
Non-stop flights not only help you avoid missed connections but also reduce the chances of delays and cancellations, saving you time and potential extra costs. Similarly, early morning flights tend to be less affected by delays, giving travellers a smoother experience and helping avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Pack light and avoid checked luggage
One of the simplest ways to avoid additional costs is by skipping the checked luggage. Without a checked bag, rebooking a cancelled flight becomes easier, and you avoid the risk of lost baggage. Travelling light also allows you to stay flexible in case of unexpected changes to your travel plans.
By following these straightforward tips, travellers can not only save money on airfare but also avoid common pitfalls like last-minute fare increases and travel disruptions.
Planning, being flexible, and monitoring prices are key to making the most of your travel budget.