40 Secret and Saavy Airport Hacks Only Frequent Flyers Know

Tip #21: Take Advantage of Error Fares

Airlines occasionally make pricing mistakes, resulting in "error fares" that can save travelers hundreds of dollars. These errors may arise from human input mistakes, technical glitches, or currency conversion issues. While rare, they can offer significant discounts on flights to both domestic and international destinations. Websites like Secret Flying, Scott’s Cheap Flights, and The Flight Deal specialize in identifying and sharing these deals. Savvy travelers monitor these sites regularly or set alerts to catch error fares as soon as they’re discovered. When you spot an error fare, it's crucial to act fast. Airlines often correct these mistakes within hours, and availability can disappear quickly. Book directly through the airline when possible, as third-party sites may complicate cancellations or refunds if the airline decides not to honor the fare. However, most airlines do honor booked error fares. To be safe, wait for ticket confirmation before arranging additional travel plans, such as accommodations or car rentals. For the adventurous and flexible traveler, error fares are a golden opportunity to explore new destinations at an unbeatable price.