Essential Information for Booking Flights to Tenerife

Traveling to Tenerife can be a bit complex due to its two airports, numerous airlines, and fluctuating prices. Understanding the key factors involved in booking your flight can simplify the process.

Choosing the Right Airport

Tenerife features two airports, and selecting the appropriate one can significantly impact your travel time. Tenerife South (TFS) is the primary airport for tourists, conveniently located near popular destinations such as Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Playa de las Américas. This airport is the preferred choice for those seeking sun and beach activities, as it accommodates most budget airlines and charter flights.

On the other hand, Tenerife North (TFN) is situated closer to Santa Cruz and La Laguna. It offers a quieter atmosphere and often lower fares, making it ideal for visitors planning to stay in Puerto de la Cruz or explore the lush northern region of the island. Travelers should note that the drive from the North airport to the South takes approximately one hour, which is an important consideration when booking.

Finding the Best Flight Deals

For those looking to save money, the most affordable flights to Tenerife are typically available between May and June, as well as in September and October. During these months, travelers can enjoy warm weather without the high prices associated with peak tourist seasons.

Conversely, winter months, particularly from December to February, see a spike in airfare as many seek to escape colder climates. Prices can soar during the holiday season, especially around Christmas and school breaks. Flexibility with travel dates can lead to significant savings, sometimes exceeding £50 per person by adjusting your schedule by just a few days.

Midweek flights, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are generally less expensive than weekend options. Additionally, early morning or late evening departures often come with lower fares, although they may require some sacrifice in terms of convenience.

Airline Options and Booking Strategies

Travelers have a variety of airlines to choose from when flying to Tenerife. Budget carriers such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Jet2 offer direct flights from numerous UK airports. While these options are typically cheaper, it is essential to be mindful of additional costs like baggage fees and seat selection, which can inflate the total price of what initially appears to be a low fare.

In contrast, traditional airlines like British Airways, TUI, and Iberia provide a more comfortable flying experience, often including checked baggage in their ticket prices. Although these flights may have a higher upfront cost, they can sometimes be more economical once additional fees for budget airlines are considered.

Direct flights from the UK to Tenerife usually take around four to four and a half hours. For travelers departing from smaller regional airports, connections through Madrid or Barcelona may be necessary, which can add travel time but occasionally result in cost savings, particularly for last-minute bookings.

Booking Timeline and Tips

The ideal time to book flights is generally two to three months in advance to secure the best rates. Booking too early may result in missing out on promotional fares, while waiting too long can lead to inflated prices.

Utilizing price alerts on platforms like Skyscanner or Google Flights can be beneficial, as they notify users when fares drop. Additionally, subscribing to email alerts from budget airlines can provide access to flash sales, where prices may be significantly reduced for a limited time.

For those considering connecting flights, particularly from Scotland or Northern Ireland, common layover cities include Madrid and Barcelona. It is advisable to allow ample time for connections, ideally at least 90 minutes, to avoid potential delays.

What to Expect During Your Flight

The flight duration to Tenerife is manageable, but travelers should prepare for the journey by bringing snacks, especially when flying with budget airlines that charge high prices for onboard food. Entertainment options such as downloaded movies or books can enhance the travel experience.

As the plane descends into Tenerife South, passengers may experience some turbulence, particularly during winter months when winds are stronger. This is a normal occurrence, and pilots are well-equipped to handle it. The aerial view of the island, featuring its volcanic landscape and coastline, is a breathtaking sight that adds to the excitement of arriving at this beautiful destination.

Key points

• Tenerife has two airports: Tenerife South (TFS) and Tenerife North (TFN).
• Flights are typically cheapest between May-June and September-October.
• Budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet offer direct flights, but be cautious of extra fees.
• Direct flights from the UK take approximately four to four and a half hours.
• Booking two to three months in advance is recommended for the best prices.
• Utilizing price alerts can help track fare changes effectively.
• Expect some turbulence during descent, especially in winter.