Hacks that airlines keep secret

Do you want to fly cheaper this summer while mixing your own cocktail like a professional bartender at your comfortable window seat? Okay, dumb question. We all want that. And it can be done. Yes, really. It's not as difficult as you think. There are a number of hacks you can use to make your flight cheaper and more comfortable. These hacks are so good that airlines don't want you to know them. So shhh, don't tell anyone. Here they are.

1. Cheap days

By flying on certain days, prices automatically go down. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday are the magical days. The perfect excuse to take a few days off as well. Your boss will understand.

2. The ‘hidden city’ hack

Are flights to your dream destination a bit too expensive? Don't give up just yet. Check if a flight to another city with a layover in that beautiful spot of yours is cheaper. Just take the first flight and ignore the second. Super sneaky, but you'll save some money.

3. Bring your own empty bottle

I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels incredibly happy when I get through security in one go. No luggage check. No spreading legs and raising arms to be searched. Nothing. But after all that effort, you're thirsty, and you want water. But that silly tiny bottle costs three euros fifty after security. Big finger, bye, see you. I'm not doing that. That's why I always bring my own empty bottle, which I fill with water at a fountain or by the restrooms after security. This way, that money stays nicely in your pocket. Whoop whoop whoop.

4. Bring your own alcohol

Okay, I admit it; it sounds much more exciting than it is. But it can be done. In a bottle of less than 100 ml. Not feeling as enthusiastic? Just think of that delicious gin and tonic you can make 10,000 meters above the ground. Then you only have to pay for a mixer. Here, add a slice of lime and voilà: enjoy. Not so bad, right?

5. ‘Hacker fares’

Sounds complicated, but it's not. Hacker fares don't mean you hack the airline's computer to give yourself a 99% discount on that one amazing flight (by the way, if you know how to do that, hit me up, you know where to find me), no, instead of buying a ticket for a flight with a layover from the same airline, you buy two tickets for direct flights from two different airlines. Sometimes that's cheaper. It does take some puzzling, but oh so worth it. You also immediately know which airline is more pleasant to fly with. Always look on the bright side.

6. Change your location

No, not really, silly. You can perform this hack right from that lazy chair in your comfortable living room with a cup of coffee in your hand. Change your location on the airline's website to another country. Local flights are often cheaper. Definitely worth a try, don't you think?

Written by: Danique van Leeuwenstijn