10 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Flights Online

Booking flights online can feel like a game of travel roulette—one minute you think you’ve found a great deal, the next you’re realizing you booked the wrong date, at the wrong airport, with a 12-hour layover in a city you can’t pronounce. We’ve all been there. But with a little know-how, you can avoid the common traps and book smarter, not harder. Here are 10 mistakes to dodge the next time you're planning a getaway.

1. Ignoring Incognito Mode

Ever notice flight prices magically increase the second time you search? That’s no coincidence. Airlines and booking sites use cookies to track your searches and may bump up prices based on demand. Use incognito or private browsing to keep prices honest.

2. Not Double-Checking the Airport Code

This one stings: you think you’ve booked a flight to Paris, only to realize you’re landing in Paris, Texas. Okay, maybe not that extreme—but always confirm the airport code. Many cities have multiple airports, and you don’t want to end up at the wrong one.

3. Being Too Rigid With Dates

Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to finding cheaper flights. Sometimes leaving a day earlier or later can save you hundreds. Use the “flexible dates” tool on flight search engines to see if your dream trip is hiding just one day away.