The 5-Minute Booking Rule That Saves You £100 On Your Next Flight

Booking flights can be stressful, especially when prices seem to change every time you check. But with a simple strategy called the "5-Minute Booking Rule," you can take control and save a substantial amount on airfare.

Travel company Ski Vertigo suggest that by spending just five extra minutes on these steps, you can increase your chances of saving up to £100 or more on every flight you book.

1. Search Multiple Sites
After finding a flight deal, take five minutes to compare prices across different platforms. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo often show different fares for the same flight. Additionally, check the airline's official website directly, as airlines sometimes offer lower prices or exclusive promotions that third-party sites can’t match. Even small differences in taxes or booking fees can add up to substantial savings, especially for international flights.

2. Clear Cookies and Switch Devices
Flight booking websites often use cookies to track your browsing activity, and prices may increase based on repeated searches for the same route. To avoid this, clear your browser’s cookies or use incognito mode. Alternatively, switch to a different device (such as a smartphone or tablet) or browser to search again. Doing this may reveal lower prices that were previously hidden, as the site won’t have your search history influencing the price.

3. Use Alternative Currencies or Locations
Some booking platforms allow you to choose the currency or country from which you’re booking. Depending on exchange rates or localised pricing, you could find a cheaper fare by booking in a foreign currency or selecting a different region. For instance, flights booked through the airline’s UK website might be more expensive than booking the same flight through its European or US site. Use a currency converter to ensure you’re getting a good deal after factoring in exchange fees.

4. Check for Promo Codes or Cashback Offers
Before finalising your booking, do a quick search for any available promo codes. Websites like Honey, RetailMeNot, or even airline loyalty programmes may offer discount codes. Also, check if your credit card or a cashback service offers any travel-related perks. Some credit cards provide additional discounts, miles, or cashback on flight bookings, which could further reduce the cost of your ticket. Even a small percentage saved here can add up, especially on higher-priced flights.


A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo commented on the findings:

"One often overlooked aspect when booking flights is the timing. Booking at the right time of day or on the right day of the week can lead to significant savings. Research suggests that booking flights on weekdays, especially Tuesdays or Wednesdays, often results in lower prices compared to weekends when demand tends to spike. Early morning or late-night bookings might also help you snag a better deal, as fewer people are searching for flights during these off-peak hours.

Another key tip is to consider using credit card reward programmes or travel-specific cards. Many UK banks offer cards with generous sign-up bonuses and ongoing rewards that can be redeemed for flights or accommodation. Some even offer travel insurance, which could save you money on buying separate cover. Signing up for airline newsletters or fare alerts can also help you stay on top of price drops and special promotions, so you don’t miss out on the best deals."