Is it cheaper to book flights months in advance or last minute?
Hi,
I've booked a European tour for next year and am just wondering what advice you would give regarding booking flights?
I've found a few good deals on expedia and am wondering if I should book now or wait.. I'm worried my tour might get cancelled and I wont be able to get a refund on the flights... the refundable flights are nearly twice the price!
Are flights really more expensive nearer the time even like a few weeks or days ahead?
Any advice would be great, thanks xx
I always try to book months ahead using Skyscanner which seems to offer the best deals. Last minute can be risky as what if seats sellout or fill up and the few that are left are really expensive.
Sometimes its alos best to check the airlines website. Some comparison sites like Expedia will charge you a booking fee while most of the airline websites don't and many of the airline websites advertise the lowest fare.
Also maybe buy travel insurance first, one with a plan that offers airfare refunds, then buy your flights. Then if your trip is cancelled, the insurance can cover the flight.
I usually book 2-4 months before my trip. Skyscanner, Expedia, Booking and other sites like that can be good, but I always look to book directly with the airline.
Not sure exactly how it works with Expedia, but if you book with the airline you can usually make changes (with a fee), but at least you have that option, you might not with Expedia. Also, I recently booked a flight with Continental, noticed the price went down the following day. I called and they gave me the reduced fare.
You might like to view our guide to finding cheap gap year flights.