While governments, airlines and the hospitality sector as a whole continue to put rules in place for safer travel, Expedia and Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) have revealed the best travel hacks to get the best deals on 2022 airfare, for both domestic and international trips.
Canadian travellers are beginning to “re-emerge” with 45 per cent indicating they are willing to be flexible with their travel plans to save money.
Based on data from ARC, average ticket prices (ATPs) in early 2021 were still higher than previous years. Both international and domestic flights have steadily increased since there was a dip in prices in April but on average, ticket prices are about 25 per cent lower compared to 2019.
How early do I need to book a flight to get the lowest price?
The “optimal booking window” to book a flight for the lowest price does differ if you are booking domestic or international travel.
For flights within Canada, prices usually start to increase 35 days before departure, while for international trips, airfare increases 28 days before departure.
The “sweet spot” to book a domestic flight is between 28 and 49 days in advance of your desired travel date, or three to four months in advance for an international trip, to get the lowest price.
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Are flights cheaper if you book on a specific day of the week?
There is actually an “ideal” day of the week to book a flight for the best price – Sundays.
For domestic travel, you can save around 15 per cent if you book a flight on a Sunday, or about 10 per cent for an international flight.
What is the the best day to take a flight?
If you’re looking for a domestic flight for the lowest price, leaving for your trip on a Friday, not a Monday, can save you around 25 per cent.
For international flights, setting off on your trip on a Saturday, not a Tuesday, can save you almost 10 per cent.
What is the best month to travel?
The key to saving money on your next vacation is to be flexible and choose the right month to travel.
The ideal month to leave for a trip is January, not December, which can save you about 15 per cent for domestic flights or around 30 per cent for international flights.
Are premium economy seats on a flight worth the extra money?
Premium economy seats on flight have never been cheaper. In 2021, these tickets were 212 per cent more expensive than economy tickets but in 2019, the average price of these seats were 304 per cent more expensive than economy seats.
If you can afford it, now is the time to consider the upgrade to get the best bang for your buck.
Is is cheaper to book flights and hotels at the same time?
If you’re booking a trip through Expedia , you can get an even greater discount if you book your flight and hotel stay at the same time. This “bundling” tactic can save you around 10 per cent.