How to Find Mistake Fares Before Anyone Else (And Travel Like a Total Legend)

Ever Dreamed of Flying First Class for the Price of a Sandwich? Yeah, me too. And guess what? It’s possible if you know where to find those sneaky mistake fares — those glorious pricing errors airlines accidentally publish before scrambling to fix them. But blink and you’ll miss ‘em. So, let’s talk about how you can snag those deals before the rest of the internet catches on.

Melissa Ridge

5/17/20252 min read

Disclosure: Heads up, travel fam — this post contains affiliate links. That means if you click through and make a booking, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps fund my travel obsession (and occasional impulse ice cream buys). Thanks for the love!

Ever Dreamed of Flying First Class for the Price of a Sandwich?

Yeah, me too. And guess what? It’s possible if you know where to find those sneaky mistake fares — those glorious pricing errors airlines accidentally publish before scrambling to fix them. But blink and you’ll miss ‘em. So, let’s talk about how you can snag those deals before the rest of the internet catches on.

What Are Mistake Fares?

A mistake fare happens when an airline (or online travel site) accidentally lists a ticket at a ridiculously low price. We're talking New York to Paris for $200, Bali for $300, or a luxury cruise for half off. These happen because of human error, currency conversions, or technical glitches — and savvy travelers like you can swoop in before they're corrected.

How to Find Mistake Fares Before Anyone Else

1. Sign Up for Flight Deal Alerts

Flight deal newsletters like WayAway deliver mistake fares straight to your inbox.

Grab your membership here:
WayAway — Flight Deals and Mistake Fares

2. Use Flexible Search Tools

Tools like Kiwi.com and Aviasales let you search with flexible dates and destinations, making it easier to spot oddball fares.

3. Compare Prices Like a Pro

Use platforms like Hotellook for hotel deals and EconomyBookings for cheap car rentals while you’re at it.

4. Follow Travel Deal Forums and Twitter Accounts

Some Twitter handles like @TheFlightDeal and @SecretFlying post mistake fares in real time. Turn on notifications so you can pounce immediately.

5. Book Fast, Cancel Later

Many airlines offer 24-hour cancellation windows. If you spot a fare that looks too good to be true — book it! You can always cancel if it doesn’t pan out.

Bonus Travel Tools to Maximize Your Mistake Fare Adventure

Airalo for cheap eSIMs: Grab one here
Tiqets for instant attraction tickets: Book now
Radical Storage so you don’t lug your bags everywhere: Stash here
Visitors Coverage Travel Insurance for those “uh-oh” moments: Protect yourself

Don’t Miss Out — Subscribe Now!

Sign up for my email list to get my favorite mistake fare alerts, travel hacks, and weirdly specific packing lists (yes, you need a portable door lock).

JOIN THE ADVENTURE

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Final Thoughts

Snagging mistake fares is half skill, half luck — and 100% worth it. Bookmark this post, sign up for alerts, and keep that passport ready. Your next outrageous travel deal is just a click away.

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