Your Flight Just Got More Expensive. Here's How to Fight Back.
Airfare is climbing, and your next trip is about to cost more. In recent weeks, airlines have increased ticket prices, raised baggage fees, and trimmed flight schedules. The catalyst is a sharp rise in jet fuel costs, linked to Middle East tensions that disrupted oil shipments. According to Kayak data, the average price for an international round-trip economy ticket jumped from $774 in late February to $998 by March 30.
Airlines are adjusting quickly. United, Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue have all raised checked bag fees. United's CEO also announced cuts to off-peak flights, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Fewer seats on those typically cheaper days means prices there are likely to rise, too.
'That will have a big impact on the price-sensitive traveler,' notes Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going. While a recent ceasefire has eased oil prices, analysts don't expect airfares or new fees to drop soon.
So, what can you do? The old rules still apply, but you need to be smarter.
Book sooner rather than later. For domestic trips, the best prices often appear 23 to 51 days before departure; for international, aim for 49 days or more. 'The only predictable thing you can do is lock in that affordable flight today,' Nastro advises, warning that last-minute deals are becoming rare.
Rethink your booking strategy. Sometimes, buying two separate one-way tickets is cheaper than a round-trip fare. Flexibility is your greatest asset. Consider alternate airports near your desired city—think Lyon instead of Paris, or Rotterdam over Amsterdam. A layover can save about 22% compared to a nonstop flight, though it adds travel time and potential disruption risk.
Also, look beyond flights. Travel expert Sally French points to surprising deals in other areas, like hotels, as they compete for visitors. 'I'm seeing the best deals this summer since Covid,' she says, citing a recent Las Vegas all-inclusive hotel offer at a fraction of the typical price.
The game has changed, but it's not over. With strategic planning and flexible thinking, you can still find a way to your destination without emptying your wallet.