Traveling can be one of the most exciting experiences in life, but for many Nigerians, the process of booking a flight feels daunting. From navigating unreliable platforms to fearing potential scams, the challenges can leave even the most adventurous traveler frustrated. Worse still, some people rely on others to handle their bookings, only to end up being scammed or overcharged. It’s time to change that narrative.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to book flights by yourself, whether you’re flying interstate or internationally. You’ll learn what to look out for, trusted platforms to use, and tips to ensure your booking experience is smooth and secure. By the end, you’ll feel confident enough to take charge of your travel plans without any stress or fear.

Why Booking a Flight Feels Complicated for Many Nigerians

Before diving into the steps, let’s address why booking flights can feel overwhelming for Nigerians:

1. Scammers Posing as Travel Agents: Many people fall victim to fraudulent “agents” who promise cheap tickets and end up disappearing with their money.

2. Lack of Information: Many first-time travelers are unsure where to start or which platforms to trust.

3. High Costs: The fear of being overcharged discourages some from handling bookings themselves.

4. Technology Barriers: Some people aren’t comfortable navigating online platforms or using payment methods like debit cards or virtual cards.

The good news? Booking flights is not as complicated as it seems, and with a bit of knowledge, you can save money, avoid scams, and even snag the best deals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Flight in Nigeria

1. Decide on Your Travel Plans

Before you start booking, you need a clear idea of your travel details:

• Destination: Where are you traveling to? Is it a domestic flight or an international one?

• Travel Dates: Are your dates flexible? Flights are usually cheaper during off-peak periods.

• Budget: How much are you willing to spend? Have a rough estimate of ticket prices for your route.

2. Research Trusted Platforms

Avoid relying on unverified travel agents. Instead, use reputable platforms to book your tickets. Some popular and reliable options include:

• Local Airlines for Domestic Flights:

  • Air Peace

  • Arik Air

  • Max Air

  • Green Africa

• International Flight Aggregators:

  • Skyscanner

  • Google Flights

  • Expedia

  • Kayak

• Travel Agencies with Verified Online Presence:

  • Wakanow

  • Travelstart

These platforms allow you to compare prices, routes, and airlines to find the best deals.

3. Create an Account

For most online booking platforms, you’ll need to create an account. This makes it easier to track your bookings and receive updates.

• Use a strong password to secure your account.

• Ensure your email address and phone number are valid, as they will be used to send your ticket and updates.

4. Search for Your Flight

On the platform of your choice:

• Enter your travel details (departure city, destination, and dates).

• For round trips, select both departure and return dates.

• Filter your results by airline, time, or price to find the most suitable option. 

5. Compare Prices

Different platforms and airlines offer varying prices for the same route. To get the best deal:

• Use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights.

• Check for promo codes or discounts on the airline’s official website.

• Be flexible with your travel dates; flying midweek or at odd hours can be cheaper.

6. Double-Check Your Details

Before proceeding to payment, ensure:

• Your name matches the name on your valid ID or passport.

• Your travel dates and times are correct.

• You’ve selected the correct baggage allowance, especially for international flights.

• You’ve reviewed the cancellation and refund policies.

Mistakes can be costly to fix, so take your time here.

7. Make Payment

Most platforms accept multiple payment methods, including:

• Debit or credit cards

• Virtual cards like Myaza’s USD card

• Bank transfers (for local airlines)

Tip: Avoid public Wi-Fi when making payments to protect your card details. Always ensure the website has a secure connection (look for “https” in the URL).

8. Receive Your E-Ticket

Once payment is successful, you’ll receive an e-ticket via email. Save this ticket on your phone and print a copy if possible. Your e-ticket is your proof of booking and will be required at the airport.

9. Plan Ahead for the Day of Travel

• Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic trips and 4 hours for international ones.

• Carry all necessary documents: ID card, passport, visa (if required), and any COVID-19 vaccination or test certificates.

• Keep your booking reference handy for easy check-in.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Relying on Unverified Agents: If someone claims they can book a flight for you, always ask for proof of previous bookings or stick to trusted platforms.

2. Last-Minute Bookings: Tickets are usually more expensive closer to the departure date. Plan ahead.

3. Ignoring Reviews: If you’re using a travel agency, check their reviews and ratings online.

4. Overlooking Baggage Rules: Each airline has specific baggage policies. Exceeding the limit can lead to hefty charges.

5. Falling for Fake Websites: Scammers create fake airline websites that look legitimate. Always verify the URL and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

Bonus: How to Snag the Best Flight Deals

• Book Early: The earlier you book, the cheaper the tickets.

• Sign Up for Alerts: Platforms like Skyscanner let you set alerts for price drops.

• Use Incognito Mode: Websites can increase prices based on your browsing history. Use private browsing to avoid this.

• Consider Stopovers: Direct flights are convenient but often more expensive. A stopover can save you money.

• Leverage Rewards Programs: Join frequent flyer programs to earn points that can be redeemed for discounts or free flights.

The Future of Stress-Free Flight Booking

Thanks to technology, booking flights is easier than ever before. With platforms like Myaza offering virtual cards for seamless payments and access to global platforms, Nigerians no longer need to rely on unreliable agents or face the fear of being scammed.

Take control of your travel plans today by following the steps outlined above. Whether you’re planning a domestic getaway or an international adventure, the power to book flights securely and confidently is now in your hands.

Happy travels!