Summary
Even though airfares have spiked this summer due to increased demand, there are still effective strategies to secure the best deals when planning a vacation.
Specifically, Google Flights enables travelers to search for deals, explore a map for trip inspiration, and bookmark flight itineraries to receive alerts when prices drop. iBestTravel connected with Richard Holden, the vice president and general manager of travel at Google, to obtain essential tips on optimizing trip planning and saving money in the process.
“I think people are eager to travel again,” Holden stated. “In this environment, as a consumer, our flight-related features can significantly help.”
Travelers have recently experienced flight price increases of over 18% within a month in the United States alone, compounded by airline cancellations due to air traffic control issues and staffing shortages.
However, informed travelers can still save money for their much-desired vacations. Here are Holden’s tips for leveraging Google Flight’s searching tools to maximize savings.
Use the “Explore” Tool
Google’s “Explore” tool allows travelers to search a map with varying levels of detail regarding their potential trip. Travelers can input their origin city or airport, along with specific or flexible dates, and browse prices to popular destinations worldwide, making it easier to find the best deals.
According to Holden, flexibility with both dates and destinations plays a crucial role in securing favorable prices. This tool lets users navigate globally and assess available pricing options efficiently.
Set Price Alerts
Google allows travelers to set alerts for both general flight itineraries and specific ones. Users can establish alerts for particular days, flexible days, number of stops, and even class preferences. This only depends on how far in advance the airline has scheduled its flights.
“For example, if you’re interested in a trip from London to San Francisco, we can notify you of significant changes for your planned trip four days in advance. You can also specify particular dates for tracking,” Holden explained. “Google will send automated emails if the flight price fluctuates significantly over time, utilizing historical pricing and trends to estimate potential price changes.”
Use the Price Grid
Google features a price graph and grid capability that enables users to visualize how prices shift over time, which Holden describes as “very helpful.” Users can select their origin and destination, revealing a matrix that allows them to quickly see the best price without repeatedly conducting multiple queries.
Plan Early
One of the most effective strategies for tracking flight pricing changes is to start planning as early as possible. Holden emphasizes that “the earlier, the better.” Tracking pricing data helps consumers know when to purchase tickets, as prices generally trend upward as inventory becomes limited.
Don’t Forget About Split Tickets
During flight searches, Google occasionally presents split ticket options, meaning separate itineraries across different airlines. “We often look for carriers that have partnerships with other airlines or alliances, resulting in a one-ticket process throughout. Yet, in some cases, travelers can find more affordable fares through a split ticket approach; however, keep in mind that baggage handling could become complicated,” Holden cautioned.
In conclusion, these tips from Google can significantly aid travelers in finding the best flight deals while planning their next adventure.
