When planning a trip, getting the best deal on flights can make all the difference. Knowing how to get cheap flights on alaska airlines can help you save money for other parts of your journey. One of the best ways to do this is to know the ideal days for booking flights, as prices can fluctuate based on demand, seasons, and booking timing. In this guide, we'll explore Alaska Airlines' booking trends, tips for finding the cheapest flights, and tools to maximize your savings. For questions or assistance, call Alaska Airlines' customer service at 1-888-725-8215.
What is the Cheapest Day to Book a Flight on Alaska Airlines?
While specific prices may vary by season, destination, and availability, many travelers have found that the best days to book Alaska Airlines flights are Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Here's why:
Tuesday Afternoon Price Drops
Airlines often release their weekly deals on Monday, and competing airlines adjust prices on Tuesday afternoon. This adjustment can lead to lower fares on Alaska Airlines flights as they match their competitors' discounts.
Midweek Bookings for Lower Demand
Booking flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays generally yields lower prices as these are considered off-peak days. Fewer people book flights midweek, leading airlines to lower prices to increase demand.
Avoid Weekend Price Hikes
Fridays and Sundays tend to be the busiest travel days. This increase in demand often leads to higher ticket prices. Avoid booking on weekends, if possible, to get cheaper rates.
Tips on How to Get Cheap Flights on Alaska Airlines
Securing a good fare goes beyond choosing the right day. Here are some expert tips for consistently finding the best Alaska Airlines deals:
Use Fare Alerts
Set up fare alerts on Alaska Airlines' website or use third-party travel sites like Google Flights or Hopper. These alerts will notify you when flight prices drop on your preferred routes, allowing you to book at the right time.
Book in Advance
For domestic flights, try to book at least 3–4 weeks in advance to secure better fares. For international flights, booking 2–3 months ahead can help you find the best rates.
Alaska Airlines offers a calendar view on its booking page, allowing you to see low-fare days over a month-long period. Using this feature can help you compare prices over different days and spot the best deals.
Consider Flying on Off-Peak Days
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are typically cheaper days to fly due to lower demand. Traveling on these days can reduce your fare, especially if you're flexible with dates.
Use Mileage Plan Miles
If you're an Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan member, you can use your miles to book or offset the cost of flights. Alaska Airlines also partners with other major airlines, allowing you to redeem miles across different airlines.
Alaska often runs mileage sales, offering discounts on award flights and enabling members to save even more.
Leverage Sales and Promotions
Alaska Airlines frequently offers discounts on specific routes, especially during holiday seasons or major sales events (e.g., Black Friday, Cyber Monday). Sign up for their newsletter to receive updates on the latest promotions.
Check Nearby Airports
If you're flying to a region with multiple airports, such as Los Angeles or New York, compare fares for all nearby airports. Alaska Airlines may offer significantly different prices depending on the airport and demand on the route.
Using the Alaska Airlines Best Price Guarantee
Alaska Airlines offers a Best Price Guarantee for those who find a lower fare on their website. Here's how it works:
Book Directly on Alaska Airlines' Website
To qualify, you must book directly on Alaska Airlines' website.
Submit a Claim
If you find a lower fare on an Alaska Airlines flight within 24 hours of booking, you can submit a claim on their website. Alaska Airlines will credit you the difference if the fare meets the eligibility criteria.
Receive a Credit or Refund
If approved, Alaska Airlines will issue a credit toward a future flight, allowing you to benefit from the lower price.
How Far in Advance Should I Book for the Best Deals?
Domestic Flight
For domestic flights, booking 3–4 weeks in advance usually yields the best fares. However, if you're traveling to popular destinations during peak travel seasons, consider booking even earlier.
International Flights
For international flights, it's best to book at least 2–3 months ahead to get the most competitive rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Alaska Airlines offer any discounts for flexible dates?
Yes! The flexible dates option on the Alaska Airlines website shows the lowest fares over a month-long calendar. It's a helpful tool for finding cheaper flights if you're flexible with travel dates.
Are last-minute flights cheaper on Alaska Airlines?
Typically, last-minute flights are more expensive. However, Alaska Airlines occasionally offers last-minute deals on routes with lower demand. Set fare alerts to keep an eye on last-minute price drops.
Can I call customer support to find a cheaper flight?
Yes, you can call 1-888-725-8215 to speak with Alaska Airlines customer service. They can help you find available deals and provide information on booking options.
Conclusion
To get the best prices on Alaska Airlines, plan to book your flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, use fare alerts, and keep an eye on promotions. By understanding how to get cheap flights on Alaska Airlines and taking advantage of flexible dates and Mileage Plan benefits, you can save significantly on travel costs. For additional assistance, contact Alaska Airlines at 1-888-725-8215. Safe travels!