Last Minute Flights

What counts as a last-minute flight?

A last-minute flight is one you book shortly before departure, from a few hours to a few days out. Anything from 2 hours to 14 days before the flight counts. You can book economy, first or business class this way. 

With FlightsMojo you book quickly online, with no travel agent and no heavy commissions.

Why do people book last-minute flights?

Most people do it for one of two reasons:

• Need: a medical or business emergency, a festival or another event you can't miss.

• Choice: a spontaneous getaway that brings new experiences and a break from routine.

Are last-minute flights cheap or expensive?

It depends. Some airlines cut prices to fill empty seats. Others raise fares because business travellers and people in an emergency will pay more, and even low cost carriers sometimes do this. We aim to show you the lowest fares available, including seasonal offers, festival and holiday deals, and promotional fares.

When is the best time to book?

These tips help:

• Booking window: book at least a week before you travel. Booking 14 days ahead still counts as last-minute and can save you a lot. Some airlines close last-minute bookings much sooner, anywhere from a few hours to two days before departure, so check the airline's rules.

• Time of day: the earliest and the last flights of the day are usually the cheapest.

• Day of the week: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays are often the cheapest days to buy. This isn't guaranteed, so keep checking prices.

How can I get the cheapest last-minute fare?

Here is what works:

• Off-season destinations: prices rise in peak season, so an off-season destination costs less. Tropical summer destinations are a good example.

• Flexible plans: airlines often discount their remaining seats, so stay open on dates, destinations and departure airports.

• Connecting flights: if your trip isn't an emergency, an indirect flight usually costs less than a direct one.

• Comparison: fares differ by airline and cabin (economy, premium economy, business or first). Cabins differ in legroom, seating and lounge access, so compare before you choose. Low cost carriers are worth checking.

• Loyalty miles: join an airline's frequent flyer program and use your miles for discounts on later tickets.

• Unpublished fares: some special airline fares aren't shown on the website. Call our customer service to ask about them. They often cost more, but not always.

What happens if my plans change after I book?

Refund rules depend on the airline and ticket type. Some tickets are non-refundable, and others give partial refunds or future flight credits. If you can't board for an unforeseen reason, you may get nothing back. To protect your booking, you can add Trip Shield or choose a refundable fare.

What is Trip Shield?

Trip Shield is an optional paid service you can add when you book with FlightsMojo. If an emergency stops you from travelling, it lets you apply for a refund even on a non-refundable ticket. It is not an insurance policy, and refunds are approved at our discretion.

Which situations does Trip Shield cover?

You can apply if you can't travel because of:

• illness or injury, including Covid, affecting you or someone in your household

• pregnancy complications

• a death in the family

• a home disaster

• a transport failure

• adverse weather, such as government travel restrictions

• workplace issues

You'll need valid documents to support your claim, such as a doctor's certificate.

What will I get back, and what are the limits?

These are the main terms:

• Refund amount: your base fare plus airline taxes, paid within 7 working days. Service fees, surcharges, extras and the Trip Shield fee itself are not included.

• Trip Shield fee: it is non-refundable.

• Timing: Trip Shield doesn't apply within 48 hours of departure, unless the passenger or an immediate family member has died. Keep this in mind if you're booking very close to your flight.

• Not covered: booking the wrong date, changing your mind or forgetting your documents are not emergencies.

• Flights covered: it applies only to flights booked through FlightsMojo.

How do I add Trip Shield and make a claim?

Add Trip Shield at checkout while you book. To claim, open the Trip Shield claim portal within 60 days of booking. Enter your booking reference, passenger name, contact details and the reason for your claim, then upload your documents. We may ask for more documents, and our decision on the claim is final.

Do you offer fully refundable fares?

Yes, on selected flights. You can also combine a refundable fare with Trip Shield for the most protection.

Should I book through FlightsMojo, at the airport or directly with the airline?

Each option has pros and cons:

• FlightsMojo: you compare many airlines in one place and get deals, unpublished fares and Trip Shield protection.

• Airline counter at the airport: it can be cheaper, but you have to be quick or the seats sell out.

• Airline website: it gives more flexibility for changes and cancellations, but compare prices elsewhere first.

Can I still get a good seat on a last-minute flight?

Yes. Check in earlier than other passengers to get the best seat available. You can also ask for a better seat at airport check-in. If enough accessible seats are free, you can choose.

Where can I get help with my booking?

Our customer support team is available seven days a week by phone, email and chat. We can help with fares, unpublished deals and Trip Shield questions.