Mistake fares—also known as error fares—occur when airlines or travel websites accidentally list flights at significantly reduced prices, often due to technical or human errors. If you act quickly, you can secure these incredibly low fares and save hundreds on your flights. Here’s a guide on how to find and book mistake fares before they disappear.

1. Follow Dedicated Mistake Fare Websites

Several websites and apps are dedicated to tracking mistake fares, alerting users whenever these rare deals appear. Some of the most reliable options include Secret Flying, Airfarewatchdog, and Scott’s Cheap Flights.

• Pro tip: Sign up for email notifications from these websites so you can be instantly alerted when a mistake fare is found.

2. Enable Social Media Alerts for Instant Updates

Many mistake fare websites also post deals on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Following these accounts and turning on post notifications can help you catch mistake fares as soon as they’re posted.

• Best platforms: Secret Flying’s Twitter account and Scott’s Cheap Flights’ Facebook page are great sources for real-time deal alerts.

3. Set Up Google Flights and Skyscanner Alerts

Google Flights and Skyscanner allow you to set price alerts for specific routes, notifying you whenever there’s a significant price drop. While these alerts won’t specifically target mistake fares, they can help you catch unusually low prices.

• How to set it up: Enter your destination, choose your travel dates, and enable price tracking to receive alerts when fares drop unexpectedly.

4. Act Fast—Mistake Fares Don’t Last Long

Mistake fares are corrected quickly once airlines or travel platforms discover them, so booking immediately is essential. If you see an error fare, avoid overthinking—book it before it’s gone, as it may only be available for a few hours.

• Tip: Consider booking with a flexible or refundable ticket option if you’re unsure about the trip. This allows you to secure the deal and confirm later.

5. Book Directly Through the Airline When Possible

Booking directly on the airline’s website, rather than through a third-party site, can increase your chances of the fare being honored. Airlines are more likely to uphold a booking made through their platform than one from an online travel agency (OTA).

• Why it matters: Third-party sites may cancel the booking if the airline retracts the mistake fare, so booking directly is generally safer.

6. Be Prepared for the Airline to Cancel the Fare

Airlines reserve the right to cancel mistake fares, though many will honor them as a goodwill gesture. If your fare is canceled, you’ll receive a refund, but you won’t be compensated for related expenses like hotel bookings or car rentals.

• Risk management: Wait until your flight is confirmed by the airline before booking non-refundable accommodation or other travel arrangements.

7. Look for Mistake Fares Late at Night or Early in the Morning

Mistake fares are more likely to appear during off-peak hours when fewer people are booking. Airlines and travel platforms may be slower to catch errors made late at night or early in the morning, increasing the chances that you’ll secure the deal.

• Best time to check: Search for flights at unusual hours, such as late at night or early in the morning, when mistake fares may go unnoticed for longer.

8. Use Credit Cards with Travel Protections

Using a credit card with travel protections, such as trip cancellation coverage, can provide additional security when booking mistake fares. If the airline cancels your booking, you may have coverage to help with rebooking costs or other expenses.

• Card recommendation: Many travel credit cards, like Chase Sapphire Preferred or American Express Platinum, offer these protections as standard benefits.

9. Double-Check Fare Restrictions and Conditions

Mistake fares may come with restrictive terms, such as no refunds, limited baggage allowances, or specific blackout dates. Carefully review the fare rules before booking to ensure you’re aware of any restrictions.

• Tip: Be flexible with your travel dates and plans, as mistake fares are often non-changeable or non-refundable.

10. Sign Up for Premium Deal Alerts for More Frequent Updates

Some websites offer premium services that provide more frequent and exclusive alerts, including mistake fares. Scott’s Cheap Flights Premium, for example, gives subscribers first access to mistake fares and other international deals.

• Consider premium: If you’re a frequent traveler, the small fee for premium alerts may be worthwhile for the additional savings on flights.

Conclusion: Jumping on Mistake Fares for Big Savings

Mistake fares offer an incredible opportunity to save on flights if you know where to look and how to act quickly. By following these tips, setting up alerts, and staying vigilant, you can increase your chances of finding and securing mistake fares for your next trip.