idealo flights

What is idealo flights

idealo flights is a price comparison service that helps users find the cheapest flights available online. It functions as a metasearch engine, which means it does not sell tickets directly. Instead, it scans and aggregates flight data from thousands of airlines, low-cost carriers, and online travel agencies. Users can then compare these options in one place and are redirected to the provider's website to complete their booking. The platform is part of idealo Internet GmbH, a major European price comparison service founded in Germany in 2000. The core purpose of idealo flights is to make the process of finding affordable air travel simple, transparent, and fast for everyone.

idealo flights Features

• Comprehensive Search Engine: Compares flight prices from a vast network of scheduled airlines, budget carriers, and online travel agents to provide a wide range of options.
• Advanced Search Filters: Users can refine their search results using specific criteria. This includes filtering for non-stop flights, including baggage in the price, and selecting departure or arrival times.
• Flexible Date Search: The '±3 days' feature allows users to see if flying on a slightly different date could result in a lower price, offering more ways to save money.
• Transparent Pricing: The prices shown typically include all taxes and mandatory fees, so users have a clear idea of the total cost from the start, avoiding surprises during checkout.
• User-Friendly Interface: The website is designed to be simple and intuitive, allowing users to find and compare flights quickly without a complicated process.
• Unbiased and Free: The service is completely free for users. idealo flights operates independently and displays results impartially, without favoring any specific airline or travel agent.

idealo flights Pricing Plans

idealo flights is a completely free service for consumers. There are no subscription fees, booking charges, or hidden costs associated with using the platform to search for and compare flights. The company generates revenue through partnerships with the airlines and online travel agencies listed on its site, as well as through online advertising. Users can access all features without needing to create an account or purchase a plan.

idealo flights Free Plan

There is only one plan, and it is entirely free. All users have full access to the flight search and comparison tools, including all filters and features. You can perform unlimited searches for any destination without any cost or obligation. The platform is designed to be a free resource to help travelers find the best deals available.

How to use idealo flights

Using idealo flights is a straightforward process. Here is a typical workflow:

1. Enter Your Trip Details: On the homepage, enter your departure and destination airports or cities.
2. Select Dates: Choose your desired departure and return dates. If your dates are flexible, you can use the '±3 days' option to find cheaper alternatives.
3. Specify Passengers: Select the number of adults, children, and infants traveling.
4. Start Your Search: Click the 'Search' button to begin the comparison.
5. Filter the Results: Once the results load, use the filters on the side to narrow down your options. You can filter by non-stop flights, baggage inclusion, specific airlines, or flight times.
6. Choose Your Flight: Review the list of available flights, which are typically sorted by the lowest price first. Select the offer that best suits your needs and budget.
7. Book Your Ticket: Click on the selected deal. You will be redirected to the website of the airline or online travel agency to complete your purchase securely.

Pros and Cons of idealo flights

Pros:

• Extensive Comparison: Scans a very large number of travel sites and airlines, increasing the chance of finding a low price.
• Completely Free: No cost to the user for searching and comparing flights.
• Useful Filters: The ability to filter by baggage and non-stop flights is very practical.
• Transparent Costs: Aims to show the final price, including taxes, from the beginning.
• Simple Interface: Easy to navigate for both new and experienced travelers.

Cons:

• Redirects for Booking: You cannot book directly on idealo; you are sent to a third-party site, which adds an extra step.
• Price Fluctuations: Occasionally, the price shown on idealo may differ slightly from the final price on the booking site due to real-time data updates.
• Customer Support: Any issues with booking, changes, or cancellations must be handled with the airline or travel agent you booked with, not idealo.
• Not All Airlines Included: While comprehensive, it may not include every single small or regional airline in its search results.

idealo flights integrations

idealo flights does not offer user-facing integrations with productivity tools like Slack or Salesforce. Its integrations are on the backend, where it connects with hundreds of airlines and online travel agencies (OTAs) through APIs to pull flight data and pricing information into its search results. This ensures users get a comprehensive list of available flights in one place.

idealo flights Alternatives

• Google Flights: Known for its incredibly fast search speed and powerful, user-friendly interface. Its map and calendar views are excellent for exploring options.
• Skyscanner: A very popular alternative that also compares millions of flights. It offers a unique 'Search Everywhere' feature for travelers looking for inspiration on a budget.
• Kayak: A well-established metasearch engine that compares flights, hotels, and car rentals. It provides price trend forecasts to help users decide whether to book now or wait.
• Momondo: Praised for its clean design and ability to find deals by combining different airlines for outbound and return journeys, often resulting in lower prices.

idealo flights API

idealo flights does not provide a public, self-service API for individual developers to access its flight data. However, it does offer a B2B partner API for businesses and websites that wish to integrate idealo's flight comparison technology into their own platforms. To gain access, interested businesses must contact idealo's partnership team directly through their corporate website to discuss requirements and commercial terms. There is no publicly available documentation or API key generation for general use.

idealo flights Affiliate program

Yes, idealo offers a partner program that functions like an affiliate program. Website owners and businesses can partner with idealo to integrate its flight price comparison service into their own sites. This allows their users to search for flights without leaving their platform. Partners typically earn a commission on a Cost-Per-Click (CPC) or lead basis when users click on flight offers. To join, you must apply through the idealo partner section on their website. They will review your application to ensure your website meets their quality standards. Payouts and specific commission rates are detailed in the partnership agreement.