At Skyscanner, we hear this question a lot. And here’s the honest answer: no, repeat searches don’t cause flight or holiday prices to increase, not on our site, and not because of browser cookies.

Let’s break down what’s really happening behind the scenes.

Why it feels like prices go up the more you search

Flight and holiday prices can change quickly. They’re updated in real time based on availability, demand, and changes from airlines or travel agents. So if you search more than once and see a different price, it’s probably changed for everyone, not just you.

Do cookies affect flight or holiday prices?

No. Cookies don’t raise prices on Skyscanner.

Cookies are small files stored in your browser. They help websites remember things like your login details or last search. This can save time when you return, but cookies don’t affect how prices are shown.

There are two main types:

• Session cookies, which are temporary and reset when you close your browser

• Persistent cookies, which stay a bit longer to remember your preferences

Skyscanner uses cookies to improve your experience, not to adjust pricing.

Does Skyscanner increase prices based on my search behaviour?

Not at all. We don’t change prices based on your cookies, browsing history, or location. The prices you see on Skyscanner come directly from airlines and travel providers.

We also work closely with our partners to make sure the prices shown are accurate and up to date. If we find any pricing that isn’t fair, we act on it quickly.

So why do flight and holiday prices change?

Here are a few of the most common reasons:

• Limited seats: As cheaper fares sell out, more expensive ones may be the only ones left.

• Timing: Prices often rise as the travel date gets closer, especially on popular routes.

• Real-time pricing: Airlines and agents adjust fares frequently based on demand.

• Flight load: Sometimes prices increase if the plane isn’t filling up fast enough.

What does this mean for you? It’s normal for prices to change, but not because you searched again.

Will clearing cookies or using incognito mode help?

Not on Skyscanner. Whether you’re in regular browsing mode or incognito, we show the same prices to everyone. Your searches don’t influence what you see—and clearing cookies won’t reduce the fare.

How to find the best flight deals

If you’re price-conscious (and most travellers are), a few smart moves can go a long way:

• Set up a Price Alert to get notified when fares drop for your preferred route.

• Use the month view to compare prices across different travel dates.

• Search ‘Everywhere’ if your destination is flexible—you might find a better deal to a place you hadn’t considered.

These tools work just as well for domestic travel as they do for international trips.

Want to know more about how prices fluctuate? Find out when flight prices drop and how to spot the cheapest days to travel.

What’s the best time to book a flight or holiday?

There’s no universal rule, but in general:

• Booking well in advance gives you more chances to find lower fares

• Avoid peak travel seasons (like festival holidays) when demand is high

To get personalised tips, try the Skyscanner Savings Generator and see when it’s best to book your route.

Take the stress out of searching

Flight and holiday prices might change quickly, but that doesn’t mean you’re being tracked. Now that you know what really drives price changes, you can search with confidence and book smarter. Skyscanner’s tools like Price Alert and flexible date search can help you stay ahead of the curve.