My dad worked for United Airlines, so I grew up on planes. I explored 38 countries and counted the count. There’s a lot more to the bucket list. Luckily for both of us, I know all the tricks to save money, as I’m cheap.
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It’s not just about winning great flight deals
Airlines always adjust prices based on demand, timing, and even the day of the week. A little flexibility and some smart plans can mean big savings. Try these proven strategies before booking.
Setup Price Alert: Google Flights and Kayak will send you an email when prices drop. What time is the best time to book? Domestic flights take 1-3 months away, and international flights take 4-6 months.
A woman can be seen using a laptop to book a trip. (istock)
Fly to cheap days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are usually the cheapest. Red eyes and early morning flights are also costly and less likely to be delayed or cancelled.
Flexibility: Try out Google’s Explore features and find budget-friendly dates. Skyscanner’s cheapest moon tools are clean. Instead of selecting a date, click on a flexible date and watch the price fluctuate.
Hidden City Tickets (Use carefully): Skiplagged can find flights where your destination is a layover and save cash. Don’t check your bag. It doesn’t follow you.
Check the 24-hour price drop: Have you booked a flight? Some airlines allow you to cancel for free within 24 hours. If you find a low price, please cancel and re-book. Easy savings.
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Or use Google’s warranty. Specific flights are eligible. After booking your trip, Google will monitor prices until the first flight of your itinerary departs. When prices drop, the company makes up for the difference. Select a badge flight from your departure flight (badges are colorful shields surrounding the dollar sign). Select your badge itinerary through checkout.
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Upgrade your trip
OK, flights are booked and bags packed. Make your trip even better, easier and less stressful.
Download official apps for all airlines that fly. Here’s a pro tip. Find the live activity feature in the selected app. This generally gives you a countdown to boarding time and a real-time view of gate and seat information in case something changes at the very end.
The plane is depicted departing from a destination. (istock)
Charging at the airport is dangerous. The new phone is smart enough to be wary of unknown USB connections. They ask if you “trust this device” or “share data.” Always say “no” to these options while traveling! Both allow data communication between the phone and the charging hardware and may have embedded malware. Please select “Charging only option.” If that’s not available, continue with Walkin.
A solo trip? Share your location with your family and friends. On your iPhone, find my app and tap on the person (bottom of the screen) > + (plus icon) > Share my location. Then select your contact, press Submit and select a period. In Google Maps, tap the Profile icon (top right) > (location sharing) > (new share) and send the link via the messaging app.
Skip rows at US Customs: Mobile Passport app is a secret weapon. It’s free and secure, and you can send your passport and customs information from your mobile phone. No form is required. Additionally, you can access fast track lanes at participating airports and cruise ports.
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Related: Read this before booking Uber
The secrets of the VIP experience
Now, if you don’t have a “budget” on the Lexicon, you can bypass the hassle of many airports.
LAX and ATL PS (Private Suite)
Get private TSA screening and a terminal with no lines. Think of a velvet sofa and chilled champagne. It has boards mounted via dedicated cars on the runway and has similar arrival services. It’s an Amex Centurion cardholder perk and that’s how I use it.
Airport Butler/Royal Airport Concierge Fast Truck Service
The Royal Airport Concierge will meet you on the curb, process your luggage, escort you through security, and take you to the VIP lounge.
Woman is photographed walking through the airport with suitcases. (istock)
Delta VIP Select
Enjoy a private check-in lounge with champagne, canapes, private TSA screenings and tarmac plane rides. The first passenger costs $500 and $100 for each additional passenger. Here’s the video about it.
United Global Services
Only invitations offer private check-in for United Airlines’ global service members.
Hawaiian Airlines Premium Airport Service
Check-in will be completed before arrival, prior to handling of priority luggage, promoting TSA lines, and escorts to the gates. You’ll get access to a private lounge with a liquor menu, meals and a shower. Prices start at $500 for two people with an option using HawaiianMiles.
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