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Travellers find secret to cheaper flights: 'Feels illegal but it's totally legal'

By Newby

The Unexpected Travel Hack That Could Save You Hundreds

A finance expert has revealed a clever travel booking tip that could lead to significant savings on flight costs. This method involves making a simple change when booking online, which can result in major cost reductions.

Victoria Devine, the host of the She's On The Money podcast, shared this travel booking tip, describing it as something that "feels like you're doing a dodgy," yet is "completely legal." According to her, the secret to unlocking these savings lies in altering the 'point of sale country' when booking flights.

"Airlines don't just price flights because of the distance; they actually price them by where you buy," Victoria explained. "So sometimes the exact seat costs literally hundreds of dollars less if you book it on the airline's destination country website in their local currency."

The video caption accompanying her explanation summarized the trick: "Changing your point of sale when booking flights can literally save you hundreds."

How to Work the System

To take advantage of this method, Victoria recommends using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN provides a secure and private internet connection that can bypass geographic restrictions and mask your location.

"Using a VPN and booking in the airline's destination country currency can be a money win," the video caption read.


This unexpected travel hack was recently discussed on the She's On The Money podcast, with a TikTok video of the segment receiving over 5,000 likes and 2,500 shares. Many travelers responded with surprise and gratitude for the tip.

'This is great,' replied one mortgage broker.
'This is so interesting,' added a frequent traveler.

Some commenters provided additional details on how the booking trick works:

  • Use a VPN and choose the destination country as your country of origin.
  • For example, if you're flying to Vietnam, use a VPN for Vietnam, then go to the Vietnamese website and book in dong. It's cheaper, as it's expected that locals with a lower average net worth will book this.
  • Another person suggested that an even better workaround than a VPN is having someone in your destination country make the booking for you.

"My dad lives in Vietnam and I get him to book my flights over there because it's cheaper on his end!" one traveler explained.

Broader Implications of the Trick

Some commenters noted that the savings hack applies not only to flights but also to other online travel bookings. One claimed that cruise lines similarly hike up the price based on booking location, and that "Australians often pay over 10 per cent more than the UK."

"It's the same for car hire!" claimed another.

However, not everyone was convinced the travel savings hack was foolproof.

  • You have to be so careful reading the fare rules when doing this. The rules for each fare are different and are based on the point of origin. You'd get caught out if you ever need to cancel or reschedule, and it's more hassle than it's worth.
  • Another warned that you may also run the risk of the airline "charging you the fare difference when checking in."
  • Others said they had tried using a VPN to book flights without success—either because the booking wasn't accepted or there was no obvious savings.

Meanwhile, a man claiming to work for a major airline added to the discussion, asserting that the entire concept was a fallacy, insisting airlines "don't change prices by location."


Final Thoughts

While the idea of saving hundreds on flights through a simple change in booking location is appealing, it's important to consider the potential risks involved. As with any travel booking strategy, it's crucial to understand the terms and conditions of the fare and to be aware of any possible complications that may arise.

Whether this trick is a game-changer or a risky move depends on individual circumstances and preferences. Some travelers may find it worth the effort, while others may prefer to stick with traditional booking methods.