Flights can sometimes get cheaper closer to the departure date, but this isn’t always the case. Here are a few scenarios when you might find cheaper flights as the date approaches:
- Last-Minute Deals: Airlines prefer to fly with as few empty seats as possible, so if a flight isn’t fully booked, they may drop prices last minute to attract more passengers.
- Flexibility is Key: If you’re flexible with your travel dates and times, you might be able to snag a cheaper ticket close to the departure date. This often works best for destinations with frequent flights.
- Off-Peak Travel: For destinations or times that are less popular (e.g., midweek for business routes or early mornings), airlines might reduce prices as the date nears if demand is lower than expected.
- Standby Travel: This is riskier, but if you’re already at the airport and have a flexible schedule, flying standby can result in cheaper fares, though this is less common today than it used to be.
However, relying on prices to drop as the date approaches can be risky:
- Popular Routes and Seasons: For popular routes, especially during holidays or events, prices generally increase as the date gets closer.
- Limited Availability: As the flight fills up, the cheaper seats often sell out, leaving only higher fare classes available.
To get the best deal, it’s generally advisable to book in advance, especially for planned trips or travel during peak times. Using fare comparison tools and setting alerts for price drops can also help you buy at the right time.
