Airfare is up 50%, but you can still find savings this spring and summer

As I’ve said, there’s no glazing over a good flight deal for me, but the majority of airfare is on the rise right now, and only expected to get higher as spring break and summer approach. 

How expensive is airfare expected to be? 

Currently, US domestic fares are approximately 20% higher than in February of the previous year and  UK-based flights are up 36% from last year. The numbers are near pre-pandemic levels, which means consumers are much less likely to find dirt-cheap travel. 

The most expensive destinations might be on your bucket list 

According to Hayley Berg, an economist at Hopper, domestic airfare is expected to peak in May. And though it will be 10% higher than 2019, it will still be lower than the resurgence of demand seen in 2022. International travel won’t be as forgiving. Compared to both pre-pandemic and the previous year, international airfare has become more costly in general. 

You can still save, just broaden your search

While Asia Pacific is seeing one of the highest spikes, that doesn’t mean you can’t find deals elsewhere. Hot spots for savings right now and into summer include domestic destinations such as Hawaii and Florida and places across the pond including Portugal and Ireland. 

• You can fly from Los Angeles to Miami roundtrip for under $200 in April
• You can fly from New York to Lisbon roundtrip for around $500 in May
• You can fly from Chicago to Mexico City roundtrip for as low as $285 in June

Set up flight alerts to dream destinations

For those dream destinations you have your heart set on, flight deals are still possible! As a DFC member, you can select up to five destinations you wish to receive alerts on in addition to daily flight deals in your inbox from up to four airports of your choice. 

Play with your flight itinerary

Another smart tip to try as fares rise is choosing cheaper cities as a stopover. If you’re going to Amsterdam to see the tulips this spring, consider landing in London, then taking a budget airline to your final destination. You can save hundreds of dollars this way. Just take into account if layover times are worth it! Finally, try and be flexible with your travel days. Berg suggests sticking closer to the beginning of the week for international trips, and mid-week for domestic journeys.