airline fares - better or worse in October?

Posted by jc.bachelor on 05/01/26 08:08 PM

I've been watching airline fares with some concern given the ongoing global and economic instability. I'm wondering whether any of you think prices are likely to settle down before our October 11 departure for the Rick Steves Adriatic in 14 Days tour.

If fares remain volatile or climb significantly, it may be worth discussing whether we should book now to lock in what's available, or hold off and hope for better pricing. Has anyone been tracking this or looked into alternatives?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Posted by Laura

Virginia, USA

05/01/26 08:35 PM

6616 posts

I don’t think anyone can predict.

You might check the airline policies for credits if the price goes down. Some of the U.S. airlines will give you a credit (if you ask) for a future flight if the price goes down. For example, last year the price of my United flight went down $190 about 2 weeks after I booked. I rebooked at the lower price. I believe Delta has a similar policy.

I bought my ticket for Sept/Oct in mid-March just after the war started. That price was higher than the prices that I had seen before the war started. Two weeks ago, the price was $300 more than when I booked. Today, the price is about $150 more than when I booked. I plan to keep checking up until my trip departs in the hope the price will decrease and I can get a credit.

Posted by Pat

San Diego, California

05/01/26 08:39 PM

6990 posts

It also depends on your home airport. Larger airports have more competition, so maybe maybe better prices .The smaller airports have fewer deals, in my experience.

No one can truly answer your question- it's all opinion and guessing at any point.

Do you research on Google Flights. You can check on price history and set up Alerts. Watch prices for the next 4-6 weeks, then make an educated guess. Good luck!

Posted by Kenko

Citizen of the World

05/01/26 09:14 PM

3913 posts

With gasoline prices expected to stay high for at least six more months— some analysts say longer— I wouldn’t expect jet fuel prices to fall any time sooner than that.

With October just five months away, I would find the best-priced tickets now and buy them.

www.Skyscanner.com comprehevely lists airfares now for sale, along with and airline schedules.

Posted by CL

Salem, Oregon, USA

05/01/26 09:23 PM

3998 posts

Similar to Laura, last year there was a reduction in fare for my purchased flights and I asked Delta for a credit ($225/ticket). Note that the credits expire so you must use them to book future flights before the expiration date (you don't have to travel before then, just book). If I was in your situation I would have bought my October tickets months ago but I don't like to gamble. I bought my flights for November in March.

These uncertain times also merit the careful consideration of travel insurance that covers your situation. No one answer for everyone on that, but as always the devil is in the written details.