A viral TikTok video claiming that booking flights from a public library computer or using specific browser extensions can reduce airfare by up to 50% is being dismissed by travel experts as ineffective. The hack suggests that library computers, due to their lack of cookie tracking and unique IP addresses, bypass airline price adjustments based on search history.
Kyle Potter, executive editor at Thrifty Traveler, described the advice as "nonsense" and a repeat of outdated tips like booking flights on Tuesdays or clearing cookies. He stated that airlines do not track individual searches in a way that would allow them to inflate prices based on a user's history. Katy Nastro, aviation correspondent for the flight tracking app Flighty, echoed this sentiment, explaining that real-time flight price changes are not due to cached information or airlines using search data against consumers.
Nastro personally tested the library computer theory and found that prices were occasionally higher on the public computer compared to her phone. "It’s worth noting," she said, referring to minor price differences observed. She added that if someone does find a significantly cheaper fare using such methods, it's more likely due to a mistake fare or the use of an online travel agency with additional fees, rather than the hack itself.
While Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that mask IP addresses can sometimes lead to savings, experts agree this is rare and not a guaranteed solution for cheaper airfare. Browser extensions promoting cheap flights often function as aggregators, similar to Google Flights or Skyscanner, and do not offer novel savings strategies.
Experts emphasize that the most effective ways to secure lower flight prices involve flexibility and advance planning. Potter advises travelers to be open to adjusting travel dates or destinations to capitalize on deals. Nastro suggests booking during off-peak seasons, meaning planning for summer travel in the winter months and vice-versa. She also cautioned against waiting to book holiday travel, particularly during periods of elevated jet fuel prices, which have significantly impacted airfare costs and are less reactive than gasoline prices.
As jet fuel prices remain high, partly due to global conflicts, travel experts recommend proactive planning and flexibility rather than relying on unverified social media hacks. "Please go to the library. Just don’t sit down at a computer thinking it’s going to save you hundreds of dollars on flights. Get a good book instead," Potter advised.