Is it cheaper to change a flight or book a new one? The answer depends on several factors, including airline policies, timing, and fare differences. Generally, changing a flight can be cheaper if the airline charges a low change fee or none at all, whereas booking a new flight might be more cost-effective if fares have dropped significantly.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Changing a Flight?
When deciding whether to change a flight or book a new one, consider the following factors:
- Airline Policies: Different airlines have varying policies and fees for flight changes. Some airlines, like Southwest, do not charge change fees, while others may charge up to $200.
- Timing: Changing a flight early can often result in lower fees compared to last-minute changes. Airlines may charge higher fees closer to the departure date.
- Fare Differences: If the new flight is more expensive, you will need to pay the fare difference in addition to any change fees.
- Special Circumstances: Events like COVID-19 have led some airlines to waive change fees temporarily. Check current airline policies for updates.
How to Determine the Best Option?
To decide whether to change a flight or book a new one, follow these steps:
- Check Airline Policies: Review the airline’s change and cancellation policies to understand potential fees and conditions.
- Compare Costs: Calculate the total cost of changing a flight, including any fees and fare differences. Compare this with the cost of booking a new flight.
- Consider Timing: If your travel dates are flexible, monitor fare changes over time to find the best deal.
- Evaluate Flexibility: Consider if the new booking offers more flexibility in terms of cancellations or changes.
Case Study: Changing vs. Booking a New Flight
Let’s consider an example with a hypothetical airline:
| Feature | Change Existing Flight | Book New Flight |
|---|---|---|
| Change Fee | $100 | $0 |
| Fare Difference | $50 | $0 |
| Total Cost | $150 | $300 |
In this scenario, changing the existing flight is cheaper by $150, assuming the new flight is significantly more expensive. However, if the new flight is less costly, booking a new one might be the better option.
People Also Ask
What are the typical fees for changing a flight?
Typical change fees range from $0 to $200, depending on the airline and fare class. Some airlines, like Southwest, offer free changes, while others may charge more for international flights or premium classes.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my flight?
Refund eligibility depends on the fare type. Non-refundable tickets usually do not offer refunds, but you may receive a credit for future travel. Refundable tickets allow for full refunds, though they are often more expensive.
How can I avoid high change fees?
To avoid high change fees, consider booking with airlines that offer flexible policies, purchasing travel insurance, or choosing refundable fares. Booking directly with the airline can also provide more options for changes.
Is it cheaper to change a domestic flight compared to an international one?
Changing a domestic flight is often cheaper than an international one due to lower fees and fare differences. However, this can vary based on the airline and specific routes.
What should I do if fares drop after booking?
If fares drop after booking, check if your airline offers a price guarantee or allows for free changes. Some airlines may provide a credit or refund the difference if you rebook at the lower fare.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to change a flight or book a new one involves evaluating several factors, including airline policies, costs, and timing. By carefully considering these aspects, you can make an informed decision that best suits your travel needs and budget. For more tips on saving money on flights, explore our articles on travel hacking and budget airlines.
