How to Use ITA Matrix to Find Hidden Discounts and Complex Routes

The ITA Matrix is a powerful tool for finding discounted fares and creating complex travel itineraries. Originally developed by MIT and later acquired by Google, ITA Matrix is known for its advanced search capabilities, allowing users to find hidden discounts, open-jaw flights, multi-city itineraries, and more. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to use ITA Matrix to optimize your travel planning and discover routes and discounts not typically shown on standard booking sites.

Why Use ITA Matrix?

ITA Matrix is not a booking platform; instead, it’s a search tool that gives users access to advanced flight options and fare classes. Here’s why it’s beneficial:

1. Find Hidden Discounts: ITA Matrix provides access to discounted fares and allows for detailed filtering to find low-cost options.
2. Plan Complex Itineraries: Users can search for multi-city, open-jaw, or round-the-world tickets.
3. Comprehensive Fare Insights: View details on fare classes, routing rules, and price breakdowns for a deeper understanding of your fare.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using ITA Matrix

Step 1: Go to ITA Matrix and Enter Your Search Details

Visit matrix.itasoftware.com and enter your departure and destination cities along with travel dates. You can specify one-way, round-trip, or multi-city trips.

• Tip: If you’re planning a multi-city trip, ITA Matrix allows you to add additional segments, helping you build more complex itineraries.

Step 2: Access Advanced Routing Codes for Complex Routes

ITA Matrix allows users to apply advanced routing codes to customize routes and control which airlines or connections are displayed. Here’s how to get started:

1. Click on “Advanced Routing Codes” under your search details.
2. Enter specific codes for preferred airlines, layover cities, or even fare classes.
3. Use routing codes like “AA+DL” to include only American Airlines and Delta or “~UA” to exclude United Airlines.

• Tip: ITA Matrix’s advanced routing capabilities make it ideal for travelers looking to explore multi-leg itineraries or include specific airlines.

Step 3: Use the “Nearby Airports” Feature for More Options

When entering your departure or arrival city, click on “Nearby” to include airports within a specific radius. This feature helps identify additional options for budget-friendly flights by expanding your search area to nearby cities.

Step 4: Set Flexible Dates for Cheaper Options

ITA Matrix allows you to set flexible travel dates, displaying fare options across a range of days. Use the “See calendar of lowest fares” option to compare costs across different dates.

• Tip: Adjusting your dates by a few days can often reveal lower fares, especially during off-peak travel periods.

Step 5: Interpret Fare Classes and Rules

After searching, ITA Matrix will display a detailed breakdown of fare classes, price structure, and flight rules. This information is helpful for:

1. Fare Class Comparison: Find out which class offers the best value, from economy to premium seats.
2. Stopover Rules: Identify routing rules, such as stopover allowances and layover limitations.

Understanding fare details and rules can also help you avoid extra fees and make informed choices about ticket flexibility and refund policies.

Tips for Maximizing ITA Matrix’s Potential

Use Open-Jaw and Multi-City Searches for Flexible Itineraries

ITA Matrix’s open-jaw and multi-city search options are ideal for travelers looking to fly into one city and depart from another, or for those planning multi-stop trips. Open-jaw tickets often offer cost savings for those planning extensive travels, especially in Europe and Asia.

Pair ITA Matrix with Fare Alerts

Since ITA Matrix doesn’t offer booking options, pairing it with Google Flights or Kayak fare alerts can help you track pricing for your desired routes. If you find a low fare on ITA Matrix, setting an alert through another platform can notify you of price changes, ensuring you book at the right time. Check out our Google Flights Search Anywhere Usage Guide for more information on setting up alerts and maximizing savings.

Experiment with Extended Stopovers

Some airlines offer extended stopovers at no extra charge, allowing you to visit additional cities on the same fare. ITA Matrix makes it easy to search for these routes, which can add extra destinations to your itinerary without increasing costs.

Pros and Cons of Using ITA Matrix

Pros

1. Detailed Fare Information: ITA Matrix provides a deep level of fare detail, helping travelers make informed choices about fare classes and routing options.
2. Advanced Routing Options: Ideal for building custom itineraries that aren’t easily accessible on standard booking sites.
3. Access to Hidden Discounts: Allows you to uncover fares that may not appear on booking sites due to fare class restrictions or complex routing.

Cons

1. No Direct Booking: ITA Matrix is strictly a search tool, so you’ll need to book through another platform.
2. Complex Interface: The tool’s advanced features may be challenging for novice travelers.
3. Requires Knowledge of Routing Codes: To fully leverage ITA Matrix, it helps to understand fare and routing codes, which may be complex for first-time users.

Frequently Asked Questions About ITA Matrix

Can I Book Directly Through ITA Matrix?

No, ITA Matrix is a search tool only. Once you find your ideal flight and fare, you can book through the airline or an online travel agency by inputting the flight details manually.

Does ITA Matrix Include Budget Airlines?

ITA Matrix covers many airlines, but some budget carriers, such as Southwest, may not be included. Always compare results with other platforms if you’re looking for specific airlines.

How Accurate are ITA Matrix’s Fare Predictions?

ITA Matrix fares are updated frequently, but prices can change rapidly due to availability. Using fare alerts with another booking platform can help you keep track of changes in real-time.

Final Thoughts on Using ITA Matrix for Travel Planning

ITA Matrix is an invaluable tool for advanced travelers looking to uncover hidden discounts, explore complex routing, and maximize flexibility in their travel plans. By mastering its powerful search features, including fare class details, advanced routing codes, and multi-city searches, you can create custom itineraries that meet your budget and schedule. For additional tools that complement ITA Matrix, consider exploring our Google Flights Search Anywhere Usage Guide to enhance your travel planning.

Using ITA Matrix may take practice, but it’s well worth the effort for travelers who want complete control over their itineraries and access to hidden savings.