Tristan Kiely

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10 Tips to Help You Save Money Next Time You Fly

The costs associated with air travel can quickly add up, from tickets to baggage fees and everything in between. If you're looking to save some money on your next flight, you're in luck! Here are my top 10 tips to help you save money on your next trip. Make sure to read these before you book your next flight!

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1. Be Flexible with Dates and Times: Flights on weekdays and early mornings or late nights are often cheaper. Flying mid-week or during off-peak hours can often result in lower ticket prices. Use flexible date search options when booking to see if shifting your travel dates can save you money.

2. Compare Prices: Use fare comparison websites and apps to find the best deals across multiple airlines. Sometimes, a different website or a direct booking can save you a significant amount.

3. Sign Up for Airline Newsletters: Airlines frequently send out exclusive deals and discounts to their email subscribers. Signing up for these newsletters can give you access to special offers that aren't available to the general public. You can also sign up for alerts from fare comparison websites to be notified of price drops on flights to your desired destination.

4. Consider Alternative Airports: Check prices at nearby airports. Sometimes flying into a smaller or less busy airport can result in lower fares, even if it means a slightly longer drive to your final destination.

5. Book Early…or Late: Book flights well in advance or at the last minute for potential discounts, depending on the airline and destination. Aim to book your tickets around 6-8 weeks before your departure date for the best deals, or try booking last minute if you're flexible with your travel plans.

6. Use Airline Rewards Programs: Join frequent flyer programs or use airline-affiliated credit cards to earn miles or points that can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades in the future.

7. Travel Light: Pack efficiently to avoid checked baggage fees. Many airlines charge extra for checked bags, so try to fit everything into a carry-on if possible. If you must check a bag, pay for it online in advance, as fees are often higher at the airport. Having an airline credit card can help you avoid checked bag fees.

8. Be Flexible with Your Itinerary: Consider booking round-trip flights or multi-city itineraries for potential savings. Also, booking connecting flights instead of direct flights can sometimes be cheaper.

9. Avoid Peak Travel Seasons: Prices tend to be higher during holidays and school breaks. If your schedule allows, try to travel during shoulder seasons or off-peak times to snag better deals.

10. Stay Updated on Refund and Price Drop Policies: Some airlines offer refunds or credits if the price of your ticket drops after you've purchased it. Keep an eye on these policies and take advantage of them if your fare decreases.

I hope you found some of these tips helpful. Let me know if you have used any of these or if I missed any.

Happy traveling!

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