After the end of the Corona crisis, air travel is back in fashion. After home leave, many Germans long for palm trees, foreign cultures and white sandy beaches. But the year 2022 has so far been marked by delays, flight cancellations and rising prices. However, travelers can avoid some annoyances if they follow certain tips and tricks. Expedia has compiled the most important ones in their "2023 Air Travel Hacks Report", which was created in cooperation with the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC).
It depends on the right booking time. Those who buy their flight tickets on Sunday instead of Friday save an average of 15 percent. For domestic flights, Saturday is the cheapest - here the savings potential is around 30 percent. Those interested in international flights should apply for tickets more than 70 days in advance. Because then the prices are usually much cheaper.
According to Expedia's evaluation, prices are rising earlier and earlier than in recent years. Last-minute offers have therefore become rarer. It is also advisable to strike earlier for domestic flights. Travelers should search for flights at least 30 days before the start of their holiday.
Travelers can also consider a few points when it comes to flight cancellations. It is best to withdraw before 3 p.m., because then the risk of failure is lower. This was the result of the evaluation of flight data from the past year. According to this, the probability of a flight cancellation after 3 p.m. is 15 percent higher than at earlier times.
Another tip: avoid peak travel times. This not only saves money, but also minimizes the likelihood of a delay. Flight delays were the lowest in February compared to busy June - by about 115 minutes.
If possible, do not start your holiday on an international flight on Monday, as this is by far the most expensive day. For domestic flights, it is best to rely on Saturday. Compared to a Tuesday or Wednesday, the tickets are 20 percent cheaper.
The most important finding for travelers this year is therefore "the right timing," explains Jon Gieselman, President of Expedia Brands, the study results. "Knowing when to book and when to fly can make a world of difference, not only in saving a bit of money, but also in minimizing disruption at the airport."
