In a move set to revolutionize the way travelers book flights online, Google Flights is launching new features aimed at helping users find the most cost-effective time to book their air travel. Leveraging years of data, the service now provides precise insights into when fares are typically at their lowest for specific destinations.
Key Points:
- Google Flights rolls out new features to help users identify the best time to book flights.
- The service uses historical data to provide on-screen messages about optimal booking periods.
- A “price guarantee” badge assures users that the displayed fare will not drop further before departure.
- Price tracking notifications alert users when fares drop significantly for selected or flexible dates.
Navigating the often confusing landscape of airfare pricing, Google Flights aims to simplify the process. Users will now see on-screen messages like “the cheapest time to book is usually later, from September 13 to December 7,” provided there is sufficient and reliable data for that particular search.
In addition to this, Google Flights already offers features that allow users to gauge whether current prices for a flight search are low, typical, or high compared to historical averages. The service also offers price tracking, sending notifications to users when flight fares drop substantially for selected or flexible dates, depending on user preferences.
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But that’s not all. The platform is introducing a “price guarantee” badge, displayed in a distinct color, indicating that the fare shown will not decrease further until the day of departure. For travelers who book a flight with this badge, Google promises to refund the difference via Google Pay if the price drops later. However, this feature is currently only available for flights departing from the United States.
As a general tip for those looking to save on long-haul flights, choosing routes with stopovers and avoiding weekend departures are often the best strategies.
This update comes as a boon for travelers, especially those who are budget-conscious. It not only demystifies the often perplexing world of flight pricing but also empowers travelers to make more informed decisions, potentially saving them significant amounts of money.