Going Places is a weekly travel segment on NPR Station KPLU in Seattle, Wash. In the latest episode on March 13, 2014 travel expert Matthew Brumley shares his tips on the best time to book flights and how to avoid paying the big bucks. Here are my top three takeaways although I do encourage you to listen to the full story here for more travel tips.
Book on Tuesdays
Sure, we all know this one but did you know that airlines release discounted fares at noon Pacific Time? As evidenced by my last flight booking experience, I did not. I read somewhere that Tuesday evening closer to midnight was the best time to book. It’s harder to be excited about booking a trip when you have to set alarms to wake yourself up at midnight to buy the ticket.
Fly on Wednesdays
Again, we already knew this one even if it’s so hard to follow. Wednesday travel days will get you the best prices. Period. Confirmed. Quadruple checked. Just do it.
“Airlines want to have their cake and eat it too.”
Bromley notes that for a single United flight from LA to Chicago there were 43 different economy class fares. In technical jargon, this is how an airline covers its own butt. Cancellations will cause the fare price to be lowered so the airline can fill the plane but most fares will fluctuate at a higher price. To get lucky, Bromley encourages signing up for travel alerts on Kayak, Skyscanner and Airfare Watchdog.
Have you used Kayak, Skyscanner or Airfare Watchdog before? Share your experience with flight price alerts in the comments below.
Happy booking!
@laurylkitson