Until now, Google Flights has favored a blend of pricing and ease of booking, often leading you to overlook cheaper airfare options. This approach might result in spending more than necessary on your travels.
In the coming weeks, Google will roll out an update to its flight search tool that aims to highlight the most affordable airfare options available for your trip. However, choosing these economical flights might come with a trade-off in terms of convenience.
As noted by Google in a recent blog post about the update, “For instance, there may be a booking site offering a lower rate than the airline itself. You might also find savings by returning to a different airport within the same city, such as departing from New York’s LaGuardia and returning to JFK.”
The update introduces a new “Cheapest” tab on the Google Flights search page. Meanwhile, the most convenient options, according to the tool, will be displayed in the adjacent “Best” tab.
It’s important to note that some of the options listed under the “Cheapest” tab may require longer layovers, self-transfers, or purchasing different legs of your journey through various airlines or booking platforms. However, as Google emphasizes, “For those instances when saving money is a priority over convenience, the new tab provides a simple way to discover the lowest fares available,” allowing you to make an informed choice that suits your needs.
Since its launch in 2011, Google has been steadily enhancing its Flights tool. In a recent addition, the platform suggests optimal times for booking flights at lower prices. Additionally, Google Flights includes a price tracking feature that alerts you automatically when a fare for your desired route decreases significantly.