DIY Flight Buys in 2026

If you’re planning to book your own flights this year, there’s something important you should know: airlines are shifting their focus away from basic economy travelers and putting more energy—and cabin space—into premium seats. This change affects everyone, even if you’re not springing for business class.

What this means for economy flyers is that the lowest fares may be fewer and farther between, especially on popular routes. If you typically fly economy and want to keep costs down, it’s a good idea to book earlier than you used to. Airlines are offering fewer “bare bones” seats at rock-bottom prices, and once they’re gone, prices jump quickly. Waiting until the last minute can mean paying $150–$250 more for the exact same seat.

Another trend to watch is the growing gap between basic economy and standard economy. That price difference now often buys you more than just flexibility—it usually includes your seat assignment, a full-size carry-on, and sometimes even one checked bag. Depending on the airline and route, upgrading from basic to standard economy can cost anywhere from $30 to $80 each way. For a round-trip flight, you might be looking at an extra $60 to $160 total—but it can make the trip smoother, especially if you’re traveling with someone or carrying more than a backpack.

The upshot is this: book early, and if you're used to booking the cheapest fare, take a closer look before clicking “buy.” Make sure you're factoring in the full cost—including luggage, seating, and change fees—because that budget ticket might not be the best deal once everything’s added up.