Does private browsing actually help you book cheaper flights? Here’s the truth

We’ve all heard the advice: “Use private browsing to find cheaper flights!” But is there any truth to this popular travel hack, or is it just another myth? Let’s break it down.

Private Browsing: Does It Actually Make a Difference?

As your next vacation approaches, you’ll likely be bombarded with tips and tricks to help you snag the cheapest travel deals. Among the most persistent pieces of advice is the idea of using private browsing to secure lower airfare or hotel prices. The theory is that by hiding your browsing history, airlines and travel websites won’t be able to raise prices based on your repeated searches.

It sounds plausible, right? After all, we’ve all noticed how flight prices can change with each visit to the same website, leading some to believe that flight prices increase when airlines see you’re interested. But in reality, private browsing doesn’t have the magical effect that many believe it does.

In fact, the French National Commission on Informatics and Liberties (CNIL) and other official entities, like the French Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), have long debunked this myth. The main takeaway? Your browsing history does not directly affect flight or hotel prices. The fluctuation in prices is primarily influenced by supply and demand, not by how many times you’ve searched for that trip.

Why Private Browsing Doesn’t Change Flight Prices

The heart of the myth stems from the belief that websites track your searches and subtly raise prices to create a sense of urgency, forcing you to book before the price goes up. But, as the CNIL confirms, most travel websites do not engage in practices like IP tracking. So, whether you’re in private browsing mode or clearing your cookies, it likely won’t affect the prices you see.

Similarly, using a VPN to simulate browsing from a location where you’re planning to travel doesn’t have any significant effect on the final cost of your flights or hotel. Prices are still largely based on real-time demand and availability, with the most expensive periods coinciding with peak travel times, like school holidays or major events.

What Actually Works to Save Money on Travel?

So, if private browsing isn’t the golden ticket to cheap travel, what should you do? It all comes down to the basics of supply and demand. Here are a few tips that actually make a difference:

1. Book in Advance: The earlier you book, the better chance you have of securing a lower price. Airlines and hotels often offer their best rates for early bookings, and the prices tend to rise as the travel date approaches and more seats or rooms are filled.
2. Travel Off-Season: If you can be flexible with your travel dates, try to avoid peak tourist seasons. Traveling off-season can lead to significantly lower prices and less crowded destinations, which makes for a more relaxing trip.
3. Use Comparison Websites: With all the tools available today, booking travel has never been easier. Using flight and hotel comparison websites can help you compare prices across different providers and find the best deal. Sites like Skyscanner or Kayak let you compare dates and offers, helping you choose the most affordable options.
4. Flexible Dates: If your schedule allows, selecting flexible travel dates can help you find cheaper options. Prices can vary by day, with mid-week flights often being cheaper than weekend ones.

The Bottom Line

While it’s tempting to rely on the latest online hacks to save money, the reality is that private browsing doesn’t offer the pricing advantages many believe it does. Instead, planning ahead, being flexible with your dates, and utilizing the right tools like price comparison websites will get you much closer to the best deal.

So, next time you plan a trip, skip the private browsing mode and focus on strategies that actually work. Your wallet (and your peace of mind) will thank you.