How far in advance should I book flights for travel within Africa?

For popular regional routes — like Nairobi to Johannesburg or Lagos to Accra — booking 6 to 10 weeks in advance typically yields the best fares. For long-haul flights out of Africa, 8 to 12 weeks is a good window. Avoid booking last-minute on African routes; inventory is smaller and prices spike sharply in the final two weeks.

What happens if I miss a connecting flight?

If your flights are on a single booking and the first leg is delayed, the airline is obligated to rebook you on the next available connection at no cost. If you booked the legs separately, you're on your own — you'll need to buy a new ticket for the missed leg. Always allow generous layover times when self-connecting.

Do African passport holders need visas for most destinations?

Visa requirements vary significantly depending on which African passport you hold and where you're going. Some corridors — like between ECOWAS countries in West Africa — are visa-free. Others require advance applications. Use the Tsavaro visa checker to confirm your specific corridor before booking.

Is travel insurance worth it for short trips?

Yes, almost always. Even for a three-day trip, travel insurance can cover flight cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and missed connections — costs that can easily run into hundreds or thousands of dollars. A basic policy for a short trip typically costs less than the price of a restaurant meal.

How do I know if my carry-on bag will be accepted?

Check the specific airline's baggage policy page for the dimensions and weight limits of cabin bags. Common size limits are 55 x 40 x 20 cm, but budget carriers often have stricter rules. If you're on a multi-airline itinerary, check every carrier individually and comply with the most restrictive set of rules.

Can I change my name on a flight ticket if I made a typo?

Minor name corrections (one or two characters) are usually allowed, sometimes free and sometimes for a small fee, depending on the airline. Major changes — like a completely different name — are generally treated as a cancellation and rebooking. Always double-check the spelling before confirming your booking.

What does a 'non-refundable' ticket actually mean?

A non-refundable ticket means the airline will not return the base fare if you cancel. However, taxes and surcharges (sometimes 20–40% of the total price) are often refundable even on non-refundable fares. Some airlines also allow you to receive a credit voucher rather than a cash refund — check the specific fare rules before booking.

What is the cheapest day to book or fly?

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are traditionally the cheapest days to fly, and mid-morning or late-evening departures are often lower-priced than peak-hour slots. For booking, searching on weekday mornings tends to surface better fares. That said, fare pricing is now largely algorithmic, so flexibility matters more than any fixed 'best day' rule.

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Togo, Lomé Airport. Photo by Hansueli Krapf.

Experiences

Travel Smart: 5 Things to Check Before Booking a Flight

6 min read

TsavaroSeptember 10, 2026

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Travel Smart: 5 Things to Check Before Booking a Flight