Error Fare Alert: How to Snag Mistake Fares for Dirt Cheap
Imagine scoring a business class ticket to a exotic destination for a fraction of the usual cost. Sounds too good to be true? Welcome to the world of error fares, where airlines’ mistakes can become your gain. Error fares, also known as mistake fares, are drastically discounted airfares that result from human error, technical glitches, or currency fluctuations. In this article, we’ll show you how to snag these mistake fares and travel in style without breaking the bank.
What are Error Fares?
Error fares occur when an airline mistakenly sets a fare that is significantly lower than the intended price. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as:
- Human error: An airline employee enters an incorrect fare into the system.
- Technical glitches: A software bug or system failure causes incorrect fares to be displayed.
- Currency fluctuations: Changes in exchange rates can lead to incorrect fare conversions.
How to Find Error Fares
To catch error fares, you need to be proactive and monitor airfare prices regularly. Here are some tips to help you find mistake fares:
- Follow airfare deal websites and blogs: Websites like The Flight Deal, Airfarewatchdog, and Secret Flying specialize in tracking error fares and posting them online.
- Set up fare alerts: Use services like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to set up price alerts for your desired route and receive notifications when the fare drops.
- Join social media groups: Facebook groups and online forums dedicated to travel and airfare deals often share error fare information.
- Monitor airline websites: Keep an eye on airline websites, especially during off-peak hours when mistake fares are more likely to occur.
- Use fare comparison tools: Tools like Hipmunk or FareCompare allow you to compare fares across multiple airlines and airports.
How to Book Error Fares
When you find an error fare, it’s essential to act quickly, as these fares usually don’t last long. Here are some tips to help you book mistake fares:
- Be flexible with your travel dates: Error fares often have limited availability, so be prepared to travel on off-peak days or during the off-season.
- Book quickly: Mistake fares can disappear at any moment, so don’t hesitate to book when you find one.
- Use a credit card: In case the airline cancels your ticket or tries to charge you the correct fare, a credit card can provide additional protection.
- Read the fine print: Make sure you understand the fare rules, including any change fees or cancellation policies.
Tips and Tricks
- Error fares are usually non-refundable: Be prepared to pay a change fee or lose your ticket if you need to make changes.
- Airlines may try to cancel or change your ticket: Be aware that airlines may try to correct their mistake by canceling or changing your ticket.
- Don’t call the airline: Avoid calling the airline to inquire about the fare, as this can alert them to the mistake and lead to the fare being corrected.
- Be respectful: Remember that error fares are a mistake, and airlines may not honor them. Be respectful and understanding if the airline tries to correct the fare.
Conclusion
Error fares can be a great way to score cheap flights, but they require flexibility, patience, and quick action. By following airfare deal websites, setting up fare alerts, and monitoring airline websites, you can increase your chances of snagging a mistake fare. Remember to act quickly, be flexible with your travel dates, and understand the risks involved. With a little luck and persistence, you can find yourself flying in style without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
