In Nigeria, travel plans can spring up overnight. A wedding in Abuja. A work meeting in Port Harcourt. A funeral in Enugu. But if there’s one thing every seasoned traveler in Nigeria has learned — sometimes the hard way — it’s this: booking your flight at the last minute can cost you more than just money.
If you’re the type who clicks “search flight” a day or two before takeoff, this is your guide. Here’s what last-minute booking really means, and more importantly, how to avoid falling into its trap.
Why Last-Minute Bookings Hurt Your Pocket
Let’s get straight to it. The closer your travel date, the more expensive flights become. Airlines operate using dynamic pricing — fares rise as seats fill up. That means someone who booked two weeks ahead may pay half the amount you’ll pay if you wait until the final hour.
For example, airline ticket prices in Nigeria for a Lagos–Abuja flight could range from ₦95,000 when booked early, to over ₦120,000 just a day before. It’s not a scam — it’s supply and demand. And in Nigeria, where seats fill up fast, demand can spike suddenly.
The Hidden Costs Nobody Talks About
The price tag on the airline website is just the beginning. Here’s what last-minute bookings also cost:
1. Limited Options
You’ll likely get stuck with the least desirable departure times. Think 6 a.m. flights or late-night returns. You may also miss out on reputable airlines and get pushed toward less reliable ones.
2. No Room for Comparison
When you’re in a rush, you won’t have the time or patience to check five different platforms. You’ll grab the first ticket you find. That’s how you miss out on cheap flights from competitive sites like Move9ja or trusted travel agencies in Nigeria.
3. Disrupted Plans
You might have to cancel or reschedule other commitments because the only available flight departs at an inconvenient time — or worse, not at all.
How to Avoid Last-Minute Booking Mistakes in Nigeria
1. Plan Ahead — Even If It’s Tentative
Start looking at flights once your travel plans are 70% certain. With most flight booking in Nigeria platforms, you can set fare alerts and watch how prices move. Some platforms even allow for flexible bookings or minimal change fees.
Pro tip: Sites like Move9ja specialize in airline tickets within Nigeria and show you comparisons across airlines, so you don’t miss the best prices.
2. Use a Trusted Travel Platform
Don’t wait until the night before to start googling “how to book flights.” Bookmark a reliable travel agency in Nigeria or use platforms that are designed for the Nigerian market. This saves time and reduces the risk of scams.
Look for platforms that:
- Offer instant confirmation
- Allow payment in Naira
- Provide real-time updates
- Support multiple airlines
3. Compare Across Airlines and Times
Even with just a few days to spare, take time to compare. Prices can vary significantly between airlines flying the same route. For instance, a 1 p.m. flight might be cheaper than the 9 a.m. one on the same day.
When searching for cheap flights, filter your options by time, airline, and price. Don’t assume the first flight you see is the best deal.
4. Avoid Peak Days and Holidays
If you’re flying around festive seasons, Fridays, or Mondays, brace yourself for price surges. Whenever possible, shift your departure or return dates to midweek. Not only are airline ticket prices in Nigeria usually lower then, but you’ll also avoid the airport rush.
Nigeria Travel Tips for Smarter Flight Booking
Booking a flight in Nigeria can be smoother when you have the right habits. Here are a few Nigeria travel tips that help you stay ahead:
- Check in early online to avoid airport chaos.
- Confirm your flight time 24 hours before. Flight reschedules happen often here.
- Save your receipts and booking reference. You’ll need them for check-in, especially when traveling with local carriers.
- Travel light. Last-minute bookings may not include free baggage, and excess luggage fees can be a painful surprise.
When You Have to Book Last-Minute: What to Do
Sometimes, it’s unavoidable. Emergencies, work trips, or spontaneous getaways happen. If you’re booking within 48 hours of your trip, here’s what to do:
- Use an aggregator platform like Move9ja. You’ll see multiple airline options side by side without jumping from site to site.
- Be flexible with time and date. If you can leave at 8 p.m. instead of 10 a.m., or fly on Tuesday instead of Monday, you might find a cheaper seat.
- Act fast. In the final 24 hours, prices change by the minute. If you find a fair price, lock it in immediately.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Money — It’s About Control
When you book late, you’re not just spending more — you’re losing control. Control over your time, your comfort, and your travel experience. And in a country where flight delays and cancellations are not uncommon, that control is priceless.
Don’t fall into the cycle of panic booking. Whether you’re traveling for business, family events, or a well-earned break, give yourself the gift of time — and options. With tools like Move9ja and a little bit of planning, you can skip the drama and focus on what really matters: your journey.
