Flight Booking Hacks: Finding and using Booking Error Fares

Imagine finding a round-trip ticket to Europe for $200, or a first-class flight across the country for the price of an economy seat. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, sometimes airlines make mistakes, leading to the discovery of error fares (also known as mistake fares). While these deals are rare and can be unpredictable, knowing how to spot and (responsibly) book them can lead to incredible travel savings.

What are Error Fares (Mistake Fares)?

Error fares are flight tickets offered at significantly lower prices than intended, usually due to a human error, a computer glitch, or a currency conversion mistake on the airline’s or online travel agency’s (OTA) side. These errors can occur in various ways:

• Human Error: A typo when entering a fare price or a misplaced decimal point.

• System Glitch: A software bug in the airline’s pricing system or the OTA’s booking engine.

• Currency Conversion Issues: Mistakes in converting currencies between different countries.

• Fuel Surcharge Omission: Accidentally not including fuel surcharges in the final price.

How Common Are Error Fares?

Error fares are not common. They are relatively rare occurrences, and when they do appear, they often disappear quickly. Don’t expect to find them every day!

Where to Find Error Fares:

There’s no guaranteed way to find error fares. They pop up unexpectedly. However, here are some strategies to increase your chances:

• Follow Travel Deal Websites and Blogs: Many travel deal websites and blogs actively search for and post about error fares. Set up alerts or regularly check these sites. (e.g., Secret Flying, The Flight Deal, Scott’s Cheap Flights – Remember to link to reputable sites you trust)

• Use Flight Deal Aggregators: Some aggregators are specifically designed to find unusually low fares.

• Experiment with Search Parameters: Try searching for flights with flexible dates, different airports, and unusual routing.

• Social Media: Follow travel influencers and airlines on social media. Sometimes they announce mistake fares.

• Be Proactive, but Realistic: It is time-consuming and requires dedication to hunt for error fares regularly.

Identifying a Potential Error Fare:

Not every cheap flight is an error fare. Here’s how to recognize a potential mistake:

• Significantly Lower Than Usual: The price is drastically lower than comparable flights.

• Unusual Routing: A routing that doesn’t make logical sense or involves excessive layovers. (However, be careful, as sometimes budget airlines use unusual routing.)

• Inconsistent Pricing: The price fluctuates wildly between different search engines.

• “Too Good to Be True” Feeling: If it seems unbelievably cheap, it might be an error fare.

How to Book (Responsibly!) an Error Fare:

• Act Quickly, But Don’t Panic: Error fares often disappear within hours (sometimes minutes!). Be prepared to make a quick decision.

• Double-Check the Details: Before booking, carefully review the dates, times, airports, and passenger information. Ensure everything is correct.

• Book Directly with the Airline (If Possible): Booking directly with the airline might increase your chances of the ticket being honored.

• Avoid Calling the Airline Immediately: Calling the airline to confirm the fare might alert them to the mistake and cause them to cancel the ticket.

• Do Not Book Non-Refundable Hotels or Tours Immediately: Wait until the airline confirms your ticket (see below) before making any non-refundable reservations.

• Be Prepared for Cancellation: Airlines are not obligated to honor error fares. Be mentally prepared for the possibility that your ticket might be canceled.

Important Considerations and Ethical Implications:

• Airlines Can Cancel Error Fares: Airlines reserve the right to cancel tickets booked with error fares, especially if the error is significant. This is typically stated in their terms and conditions.

• Wait for Confirmation (and Ticket Number): Even after booking, your ticket isn’t guaranteed. Wait until you receive a confirmation email with a valid ticket number. Some experts recommend waiting a few weeks before making additional travel plans.

• Be Ethical: While it’s tempting to take advantage of an error, remember that airlines are businesses. Don’t exploit the mistake or try to negotiate a lower price.

• Don’t Publicly Brag: Avoid posting about the error fare on social media or forums, as this could draw attention to it and lead to its cancellation. Keep your find under wraps!

• Check the Fine Print: Look for any disclaimers or clauses related to errors in pricing.

What Happens if the Airline Cancels My Error Fare?

• Full Refund: You are typically entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.

• Compensation (Unlikely): Airlines are generally not obligated to provide additional compensation for canceled error fares.

• Negotiation (Possible, But Rare): In some cases, you might be able to negotiate with the airline for a discount on a future flight, but this is not guaranteed.

Conclusion:

Finding and booking error fares can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks and to act responsibly. Be prepared for the possibility of cancellation, and always double-check the details before booking. With a little luck and patience, you might just snag the flight deal of a lifetime!

Have you ever found an error fare? Share your experience in the comments below!

P.s. This article provides a comprehensive overview of error fares, emphasizing responsible booking practices. Good luck! Remember to always promote ethical and informed decision-making when it comes to booking travel.