01 / THE SHORT VERSION
Compare the whole fare
Include cabin bags, checked luggage, seat selection and payment fees. A slightly dearer flight can work out cheaper once you add the extras. Google Flights is a good place to start.
FLIGHTS / TRAVEL TIPS
Finding better flights.
A cheap ticket is only half the story. Look at the whole journey, from your front door to your hotel, before you book.
THE WEEKENDERS→FLIGHTS
THE WEEKENDERS / TRAVEL TIPS
These are the starting points I would think about when organising a weekend away. The trick is making the most of a short trip without making it feel like hard work.
02 / THE SHORT VERSION
Be flexible about dates
Compare the day before. Flying early can save money, but only if getting to the airport is realistic.
03 / THE SHORT VERSION
Check which airport you are actually using
Some destinations have several airports. A cheap airfare might mean a stopover or an expensive or lengthy transfer into the city. For a weekend break you don't want to be spending more time than neccessary in the airport.
04 / THE SHORT VERSION
Look at arrival and departure times
On a short break, landing at lunchtime instead of late at night can make a big difference to how much time you have in the city. You can lose or gain a day depending on your timing of flights.
05 / THE SHORT VERSION
Think about connections
Try to fly non stop with no stopover change. If you book separate tickets, leave a generous buffer. A missed connection may not be covered by the next airline.
06 / THE SHORT VERSION
Check the luggage rules
Airline cabin-bag dimensions and weight limits vary with ticket type. Confirm the exact allowance before choosing a bag. Personally I take the least I need and then don't have to wait at the luggage carousel with the fear that it won't turn up!