From clearing your cookies to setting an alarm for midnight on a Monday, holidaymakers are often told there are secret tricks to securing the cheapest getaway. But many of the most widely shared booking "hacks" simply don't work.

With social media filled with advice on how to beat travel pricing systems, easyJet holidays is setting the record straight on some of the biggest myths – and sharing the tips that can genuinely help customers save money on their next holiday.

Myth #1: Is there a cheapest day or time to book a holiday?

One of the most common travel myths is that booking a holiday at a specific time – such as late at night or on a Monday – will unlock lower prices.

“In reality, package holiday pricing doesn't work like that” said Tony Hopkins, Trading & Development Director at easyJet holidays.

“Prices are influenced by factors such as demand, availability, flight costs and hotel rates, rather than the day of the week a customer happens to book. Whilst prices can change over time, there's no secret booking window that guarantees a cheaper holiday.”

He added: “At easyJet holidays, we offer a Best Price Guarantee meaning that if a customer finds a like-for-like package elsewhere for cheaper, we’ll match the price, plus take an extra £5 off per person. So regardless of what day the booking is made, you’re guaranteed to get great value when booking with us.”

Myth #2: Does using private browsing or incognito mode help you find cheaper holiday deals?

Many travellers believe airlines and travel companies increase prices based on repeated searches, leading some to delete cookies or browse in incognito mode before booking.

However, using a private browser won't result in lower prices. Package holiday prices are driven by a range of external factors and not by whether a customer is browsing in standard or private mode.

Ian Chambers, easyJet holidays’ Digital Director, said: “Package holiday prices aren't determined by whether someone is browsing in standard or private mode, so switching to incognito won’t suddenly unlock a cheaper holiday. Instead, customers should focus on finding operators that offer genuine value and booking confidence from the start.

“At easyJet holidays, we've built tools into our website that make it simple for customers to find the best option for their budget. For example, if travel dates are flexible, customers can search by month to quickly identify the cheapest departure dates. We've also introduced a comparison tool that allows customers to view up to three package holidays side-by-side, making it easier to compare everything from hotel facilities and room types to flight times and overall price. It means customers can make informed decisions based on what matters most to them, ensuring they get the holiday that's right for them at a great price.”

Myth #3: Is waiting until the last minute always the cheapest way to book a holiday?

For years, holidaymakers have been encouraged to hold out for a last-minute bargain. Whilst deals can occasionally be found close to departure, it's not a guarantee.

In fact, booking early can often provide better value, particularly for popular destinations and peak travel periods such as school holidays. Early bookers typically have the widest choice of flights, hotels and room types before availability becomes limited.

Hopkins said: “Because of the way our season launches work, customers who book early can take advantage of the widest choice of holidays, plus early access to easyJet flights, meaning they can often secure some of the most attractive lead-in fares.

“We also offer low deposits of £60 per person, with flexible payment plans and the full balance not required until 28 days before departure, so customers have more choice over how and when they pay, making it easier to spread the cost and budget for their next getaway.”

easyJet holidays has launched its summer 2028 programme so customers can book ahead with even more choice, convenience and flexibility. Holidays are available to book now for travel between 1 April 2028 – 31 October 2028. Click here to find out more.