How to Use Filters Effectively When Booking Flights Online

Understanding Filters in Flight Search Engines

When navigating flight booking platforms, users encounter a plethora of options ranging from airlines to travel dates. Utilizing filters effectively can streamline your search and lead to significant savings.

Common Filter Options Explained

1. Date Flexibility

   • Flexible Dates: Allows you to view prices for a range of dates. This option can uncover cheaper fares just a day or two before or after your intended departure.
   • Weekend/Weekday Travel: Filter by specific days. Generally, flying midweek may offer lower prices.

2. Airlines

   • Filter by specific airlines if you are loyal to a particular carrier or if you have preference based on in-flight experience, baggage policies, or rewards programs.

3. Number of Stops

   • Direct Flights: Essential for those who prefer convenience and shorter travel time.
   • One or More Stops: Might offer significant savings but at the cost of longer travel times. If you have the time, consider this option for potentially lower fares.

4. Departure/Arrival Times

   • Set filters for the timeframe that suits you best, whether you prefer early morning flights or evening arrivals. This is particularly important for minimizing wait times or aligning with business schedules.

5. Baggage Options

   • Check if the fare includes checked baggage. Some budget airlines offer low base fares but charge excessively for carry-ons and checked bags. This filter ensures that the price reflects total journey costs.

6. Flight Duration

   • Some filters let you limit travel durations, ensuring you only see flights that won’t take too long. This is useful for travelers prioritizing efficiency over cost savings.

7. Layover Duration

   • Control the maximum layover time to avoid extended waits. Setting this filter can help ensure your connection times remain manageable.

8. Price Range

   • Use a sliding scale to set your budget. This feature quickly eliminates options that exceed what you’re willing to spend, making the decision process simpler.

9. Cabin Class

   • Select the cabin class you prefer—economy, premium economy, business, or first class. This filter tailors your experience to your expectations of comfort and service.

10. Airport Preferences

    • Some filters allow you to specify departure and arrival airports. This is particularly helpful in metropolitan areas with multiple airports, providing greater flexibility.

Advanced Filtering Techniques

1. Multi-city Flights

   • If planning a trip that involves multiple destinations, the multi-city option allows you to input various destination combinations, potentially revealing unique price structures.

2. Best Rate Alerts

   • After applying your filters, consider setting up alerts for your desired routes. Many services will notify you of price drops, helping you book at the right moment.

3. Travel Tools

   • Use fare calendars or graph views that some platforms offer. These tools visualize fluctuations in airfares, enabling you to pinpoint when to book for the lowest price.

Practical Tips for Effective Filtering

1. Research Before You Search

   • Familiarize yourself with average flight prices for your desired route in advance. Knowing the baseline can help you recognize good deals when they appear.

2. Be Open-Minded

   • Don’t confine yourself to exact dates and airports. Being flexible can reveal options that align better with your budget and schedule.

3. Utilize Incognito Mode

   • When searching for flights, use a browser’s incognito mode to prevent airlines from tracking your searches, which can alter prices based on demand.

4. Consider Nearby Airports

   • If your destination boasts multiple airports, filtering for nearby options can beneficially change your flight costs.

5. Clear Cookie Cache

   • Regularly clearing your browser cache can prevent websites from displaying inflated prices based on your past searches.

6. Combine Filters Wisely

   • Try to mix and match filters effectively— combine price with the number of stops for comprehensive results that meet all of your travel needs.

7. Utilize Ground Transportation Options

   • If you’re filtering for flights into your destination city, add ground transportation alternatives in the mix. This provides a more holistic approach to overall travel planning.

Evaluating the Search Results

1. Compare Options

   • Don’t just settle for the first option after applying your filters. Use multiple sites to compare results, ensuring you aren’t missing any competitive offers.

2. Check Total Costs

   • Always account for additional fees that may not be highlighted in the initial fare. Look closely at what each airline includes in its pricing.

3. Review Restrictions

   • Pay attention to the fare rules, such as change/cancellation policies. Opt for fares that allow some flexibility, particularly if your plans might change.

Using Smartphone Apps

Many airlines and flight booking platforms now have mobile apps packed with filtering features. Downloading these apps can give you access to exclusive discounts and easier management of your travel plans.

Learning From Your Flight Search History

1. Utilize your past behaviors

   • Watch how your past searches impacted fare changes. Analytics from your previous searches can help tailor your future searches to discover better deals.

2. Follow/Subscribe for Updates

   • Airlines and travel sites often have newsletters. Subscribe to receive exclusive fares and promotions directly in your inbox.

Incorporating these strategies allows for a more informed and efficient online flight booking process. By effectively using filters, you’ll not only save time but also likely find better deals tailored to your preferences and budget, making your travel planning smoother and more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are flight filters and how do they work?

Flight filters are tools on booking platforms that allow you to narrow your search results based on your preferences—like price, number of stops, departure time, and airlines—making it easier to find flights that match your travel needs.

 

2. Which filters help find the cheapest flights?

Using flexible dates, multiple airports, and one-stop flights filters often reveals cheaper options. Adjusting your travel days to midweek also helps reduce costs.

 

3. Are direct flights always better than those with layovers?

Not always. Direct flights save time but can be more expensive. If you’re flexible, choosing one-stop flights with reasonable layovers can help you save money.

 

4. How can I avoid hidden charges when booking flights?

Use the baggage included and total price filters to ensure you’re seeing the actual fare. Some budget airlines display low base fares but add extra charges later.

 

5. What’s the benefit of using flexible date filters?

Flexible date filters display prices across several days, allowing you to spot cheaper fares that may differ just by a day or two from your original plan.

 

6. Do flight booking apps offer better filters than websites?

Yes. Many flight booking apps offer advanced filters, price alerts, and exclusive discounts, making them more convenient for travelers on the go.

 

7. How can I make sure I’m getting the best flight deal?

After applying filters, compare results across multiple sites, subscribe to price alerts, and clear your browser cookies before searching to avoid dynamic pricing.

 

8. Is it safe to book flights through third-party websites?

Yes, as long as they are reputable. Always check reviews, refund policies, and customer service options before finalizing a booking.