Booking Flight Tickets: 5 Rules to Save Money

Rule one: book early in regular seasons

In regular seasons, prices are usually better when booking weeks ahead. In peak seasons like Umrah and Hajj, prices rise as the date approaches, and early planning is a necessity, not a choice.

If you know your travel date in advance, booking as soon as you set it is better than waiting hoping the price drops; prices tend to rise, not fall, as the date nears.

Rule two: be flexible with your dates

Shifting two days earlier or later can change the price noticeably. Mid-week days are less crowded and cheaper. Try searching a range of dates before committing.

Rule three: follow seasonal offers

Agencies launch offers on flights and hotels on certain occasions. Following your agency's announcements puts better options in front of you, but make sure the offer actually covers your needs.

Offered prices may be limited to a number of seats or rooms, so if you find a suitable offer do not delay booking long or it may pass you by.

Rule four: compare integrated packages

Booking the ticket with the hotel as part of a tour package can be cheaper than separate bookings. Ask your team to compare the two options before deciding.

Rule five: calculate the full cost

The advertised price may not include baggage or seat selection. Calculate the final cost of each option before comparing, as a seemingly cheap price may actually be higher.

Ask the agent about all add-ons before booking: baggage, seat selection, insurance, and change fees. Knowing the full cost prevents surprises later.

Mistakes that raise the price after booking

Date change fees are among the most costly surprises. Before booking, ask about the cancellation and change policy, and choose higher flexibility if your plans are not certain.

And calculate the allowed baggage weight before packing. Paying extra at the airport for weight is more expensive than buying extra weight in advance.

Frequently asked questions