economy
How to Save Money on Flights as Airlines Raise Prices
Airlines are raising fares, adding fuel surcharges and increasing fees to check bags. Budget-conscious travelers are wondering where to turn.
TL;DR
- Average international round-trip fares rose to $998 from $774, and domestic fares increased to $350 from $336, due to higher jet fuel costs linked to the Iran war.
- Airlines are responding by raising bag fees, adding fuel surcharges, and cutting flight schedules, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Budget-conscious travelers can save money by booking domestic flights 23-51 days in advance and international flights 49 days or more before departure.
- Flexibility in travel days (Tuesdays/Wednesdays are cheaper), destinations, and airlines is key to finding deals.
- Booking one-way tickets separately can sometimes be cheaper than a round trip.
- Adding a layover can save travelers about 22% on average.
- Booking 'main economy' may offer more flexibility to reprice tickets if fares fall.
- While airfares are rising, hotels and tours may offer deals, with some U.S. travel deals being the best seen since Covid.