Understanding Why Last-Minute Flights Are So Costly — and Tips to Save Money

If you've ever checked prices for last-minute travel, you might have been taken aback by the unusually high fares. According to Expedia flight data from last summer, travelers booking domestic flights just zero to six days before departure paid an average of $100 more compared to those who booked around a month ahead, explains Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson to Dinogo.

You’re not alone in questioning why airlines don’t drop prices to fill empty seats. So why do fares generally increase as departure dates approach? "This is actually quite a nuanced question," Hudson states. Continue reading to unravel the complexities of last-minute airfare pricing — and learn how you can still snag a bargain flight.

How is flight pricing determined?

Airlines implement dynamic pricing for their tickets, meaning algorithms continuously analyze various factors to set the cost of a flight. As a result, prices can fluctuate several times a day. This is why monitoring flight prices over time is beneficial — you can identify what constitutes high or low fares for different routes. Many websites, including Expedia, Google Flights, and Skyscanner, provide tools for this purpose.

What qualifies as a last-minute flight?

There isn't a strict definition for a last-minute flight. "Generally, 'last-minute' refers to bookings made zero to six days before departure," explains Hudson. "If you're reserving a ticket within 24 hours of the flight, that’s considered the ultimate last-minute scenario. During these brief windows, airlines are primarily targeting business travelers or those who need to fly regardless of cost." Hudson also mentions that booking within a week of departure typically incurs an average additional cost of $100 compared to booking a month in advance.

Why are last-minute tickets priced so high?

"Ultimately, airfare pricing is driven by demand and is highly variable. Waiting too long to book can lead to significantly higher costs, especially if the destination experiences high demand and limited availability," Hudson explains. "As the departure date nears, airlines often increase prices because last-minute travelers generally have less flexibility, fewer choices, and a greater sense of urgency, making them more willing to pay the current rates."

Similarly, last-minute travelers are often business passengers for whom cost is less of a concern — or those in emergencies who have little choice in their travel plans.

However, if you’re looking for a spontaneous trip, there’s still some hope. "In certain cases, data indicates that prices for some booked tickets may drop just before departure," Hudson notes. "What the data doesn’t clarify is whether those lower prices stem from travelers choosing more restrictive, no-frills fares or opting for routes with multiple layovers, which typically cost less than direct flights."

Tips for Finding Affordable Last-minute Flights

Landing a great airfare deal hinges on one key factor: flexibility. Here are some strategies to help you secure the best prices when booking last-minute flights.

Choose your destination carefully.

"If you can be flexible with your destination, you’re more likely to discover a good fare by opting for a location that your airport services frequently," Hudson advises. "For instance, five airlines operate daily flights to Miami from Atlanta, averaging about 12 flights a day. The more options you explore, the better your chances of finding a competitive price."

Consider a layover or two.

Many travelers lean towards nonstop flights rather than itineraries with layovers. However, due to supply and demand dynamics, a route with a layover may cost less than a nonstop option. While you might need to experiment with your choices to uncover the best fare, being open to a less convenient travel schedule could lead to significant savings on your tickets.

Check for flights from multiple airports.

Investigate if there are several airports servicing your area and destination. For example, if you're departing from New York, consider options beyond JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark; smaller airports like Stewart International Airport (SWF) in New Windsor, NY, and Bradley International Airport (BDL) in Windsor Locks, CT, might offer attractive deals.

Adjust your departure dates.

"To cut costs on airfare, think about flying out on a Thursday, as it can save you up to 16% compared to other days, according to Expedia’s annual Air Travel Hacks Report," Hudson recommends. "It's wise to steer clear of starting your journey on a Sunday, which is typically the priciest day to fly."

Try booking your flight on a Sunday.

Although there’s no guaranteed day or time when airlines offer the lowest fares, data suggests that one specific day may yield better results for booking flights, according to Expedia. "Consider making your flight reservations on a Sunday, as this could save you up to 13% overall compared to booking on a Friday," Hudson advises.

Redeem points or miles.

Even if a last-minute flight demands an outrageous amount of miles or points, those flights will still be technically "free," minus any taxes and fees. While your mileage balance might take a significant dip, your bank account will remain intact.

Optimal Times for Flight Booking

"Based on insights from the annual Expedia Air Travel Hacks Report, which analyzes millions of flight booking data points, Hudson notes that the ideal time to secure a flight is roughly one month before departure." However, this can vary depending on the airline, destination, and travel dates. To maximize your chances of landing a great fare, it's advisable to use a price-tracking tool and set alerts for your chosen route well in advance of your trip.