Flight attendant warns why you could be paying more for economy flights than first class

This simple mistake could be costing you (Picture: Getty Images)

First class seats don’t come cheap but according to a former flight attendant, there’s a common mistake that could make economy flights the pricier option.

Travellers should avoid searching for their flights multiple times using the same search engines, devices and IP networks.

And this simple mistake could be costing you a lot of cash.

We get it, you can’t wait to jet off to a thrilling water park or a fairytale French village but Bobby Laurie, who has almost 20 years of experience in the travel industry, has explained why repeated searches for flights for the same destination will increase their prices.

Airline prices can surge depending on how many people search for a specific route. A rise in searches is identified as a sign of more interest, and the prices will get bigger accordingly.

A former flight attendant has shared why economy might cost more than first class (Picture: Getty Images)

This is known as a dynamic pricing strategy and it is also used by companies that sell concert tickets.

‘If a lot of people are searching for economy flights, the price will rise,’ he told Business Insider. ‘I’ve seen many times situations where first class or premium economy was cheaper than the coach ticket.’

The savvy system makes the assumption that you would be willing to pay more for flights because of your repeated internet searches. ‘If their system detects a particular flight is of interest, the prices may rise the more you search assuming you’re interested and would pay the higher price,’ he said.

When is the best time to book long-haul flights?

According to the experts at travel operator Ski Vertigo who previously spoke to Metro.co.uk about saving money when sorting a trip, you should book long-haul flights approximately 178 days (six months) in advance.

Planning this far in advance can give you a 54% reduction in costs. This means for a summer holiday in July, the ideal booking period falls in January.

This significant saving opens a world of opportunities, allowing travellers to explore destinations previously considered beyond their budget. It’s not just about the savings; this also ensures better availability and choice of flights.

How to book a cheap holiday

Flexibility: Adjusting travel dates and times can open up many cost-saving opportunities. Take advantage off-peak times or on less popular travel days.

Price Tracking Tools: These tools provide real-time updates on price fluctuations, alerting travellers to the best times to book flights and accommodations.

Deals and Sales: Keep an eye on the flash sales and exclusive promotions offered by airlines and travel agencies by subscribing to newsletters and following travel brands on social media.

Last-Minute Deals: While early booking is generally recommended, there’s also a place for last-minute deals. These are particularly beneficial during off-peak seasons or for less popular destinations, offering substantial discounts for spontaneous travellers.

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