Affiliate Disclaimer: The editors at Sleepy Globetrotter handpick all recommendations. If you make a purchase or book a hotel through our affiliate links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
Booking flights: it’s that moment when you’re filled with excitement, optimism, and the faint hope that you won’t accidentally book a flight to the wrong city.
You’re ready to jet-set to your dream destination—but wait, are you sure you’re not making one of these all-too-common mistakes?
🗓️ Whether you like to book hotels and flights months in advance or at the last minute, Expedia is a great place to explore your options. You can compare prices on hotels, flights, cars, bundles, and cruises all in one spot. Give it a look and start planning your next trip! See what’s available on Expedia >>
Let’s run through them, so you can avoid getting stuck with extra baggage—both literally and financially.
1. Forgetting to Check for Hidden Fees
You’ve found a flight at what looks like the perfect price. You think, “This is it, my bargain moment!” But hold your horses. Low-cost carriers often lure you in with that shiny low price, only to hit you with fees for everything. Want to pick a seat? That’ll cost you. Need to bring a carry-on? You guessed it—extra charge.
Don’t fall into the trap of assuming that the “cheapest” price is the best deal. Double-check the fees for luggage, seat selection, and anything else you might need. You could easily end up paying much more than you anticipated. The best deal is always the one that includes everything upfront.
2. Booking Too Early (Or Too Late)
Timing is everything. Book your flight too early, and you might end up paying more than if you’d waited for the price to drop. Book too late, and you might find that you’ve missed out on the best deals. It’s a tricky balance, and it can feel like trying to predict the weather in a foreign country—nothing is guaranteed.
The sweet spot for booking is usually 6 to 8 weeks in advance, but it’s still important to keep an eye on prices and set up alerts. Flight prices fluctuate like your Wi-Fi signal—completely unpredictable. It’s a game, and you’re just trying to win it.
3. Not Considering Nearby Airports
You’ve decided on your dream destination, but did you consider all your options? Many people make the mistake of only searching for flights to the main airport. But what if there’s a smaller airport nearby that’s cheaper to fly into?
For example, flying into a city’s secondary airport could save you a bundle. Sure, it might require an extra 30-minute cab ride or a shuttle, but hey, that’s a small price to pay when you’re saving hundreds. Plus, you get the bonus of exploring a new part of the city. Two birds, one stone. Don’t limit yourself to just one airport.
4. Overlooking the Flight Time
You’ve secured a great deal, and now it’s time to book. But wait—did you check the flight time? If you’re flying internationally, you might be surprised to find that some cheaper flights take off at ungodly hours or leave you with an endless layover.
A flight that arrives at 2 AM might be cheap, but is it worth it when you have to navigate an unfamiliar airport at that hour? Always think about the convenience of your flight schedule. Sometimes, it’s worth paying a bit extra for more reasonable hours. After all, you’re not just booking a flight; you’re booking an experience.
5. Ignoring Layover Lengths
You know that sense of dread when you see a layover that’s too short? You’re already imagining the chaos of rushing through the airport, praying your connection won’t leave you stranded. But there’s an opposite problem: layovers that are too long.
A 6-hour layover sounds like a great opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a bite, but after the third hour of wandering around, you’ll find yourself contemplating life choices. The key is balance: a 1.5- to 2-hour layover is ideal for most connections, especially for international flights. Check the layover length before booking, and avoid turning your journey into an unwanted adventure.
6. Not Considering Travel Insurance for Flights
The most exhilarating part of booking a flight is hitting the ‘buy now’ button—but before you do, consider adding travel insurance. It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but think about this: What happens if your flight gets canceled, or a hurricane delays your plans?
Travel insurance can help protect you from unexpected mishaps that could cost you big. While you may not need it for every trip, for international flights or peak travel seasons, it can save your wallet (and sanity) from unforeseen circumstances. A few extra bucks now could save you a whole lot later.
7. Forgetting to Double-Check the Name
You’ve typed in your details, clicked “confirm,” and you’re ready to go. But wait—did you check that your name is spelled correctly? It’s a mistake that can cost you more than a few headaches. Many airlines charge a steep fee if you need to correct a misspelling, or worse, they might not let you board. Pay close attention when entering your name.
Even a missing letter can become a huge hassle. If you’ve booked with a third-party site, double-check everything to avoid potential booking nightmares. You don’t want your flight to take off without you, simply because you didn’t verify your name.
8. Relying on One Booking Site
You’ve found your dream flight and you’re about to click “book.” Before you do, hold up—have you checked other booking sites? Relying on a single platform might seem convenient, but you could be missing out on better deals elsewhere.
Sometimes, airlines offer lower prices directly on their websites, or you might find a better deal on an alternative booking platform. Always compare across different sites, check for any promotions or discounts, and consider signing up for rewards programs. A few minutes of extra searching could save you a substantial amount of cash. After all, it’s your money—you might as well spend it wisely.
Final Words
Booking a flight is much like buying a car. You think you’re getting a great deal, then you find out there’s a “delivery fee” and the leather seats are extra.
The key takeaway? Always read the fine print, compare options, and plan accordingly.
Flight booking doesn’t have to be a guessing game—it’s about making informed choices, avoiding silly mistakes, and saving yourself from a baggage full of regrets. If you’ve learned anything, it’s this: don’t let the price tag fool you. Be smarter, not cheaper, and you’ll find the best deals—without the extra surprises.