How We Compare Fares

Review Methodology

This page explains how Camli compares airfares, calculates savings percentages, and evaluates airlines. Our methodology is designed to give travelers accurate, actionable information.

Last updated: May 2026 · Reviewed by David Chen, Senior Fare Analyst & Sarah Mitchell, Head of Travel Editorial

How We Compare Fares

Camli's fare comparisons follow a standardized methodology to ensure consistency and accuracy across all published content:

  1. Same route, same dates: We compare fares for identical origin-destination pairs, travel dates, and cabin class. We never compare a flexible-date consolidator fare against a fixed-date retail fare.
  2. All-inclusive pricing: All fares shown include taxes, fees, and carrier surcharges. We do not show base fares without taxes to inflate apparent savings.
  3. Same booking conditions: We compare fares with similar change/cancellation policies. If a consolidator fare has more restrictive conditions, this is noted.
  4. Multiple benchmark sources: Retail benchmarks are sourced from at least two public booking platforms (Google Flights, Expedia, Kayak, or airline direct).

Savings Percentage Calculation

When we state a savings percentage (e.g., "Save 40%"), it is calculated using this formula:

Savings % = (Retail Price - Camli Price) / Retail Price × 100

Retail Price is defined as the lowest available fare for the same route, dates, and cabin class on at least two major public booking platforms, recorded within 24 hours of the consolidator fare quote.

Camli Price is the all-inclusive consolidator fare available through our platform at the time of comparison.

We round savings percentages to the nearest whole number. If the savings varies by date within a range, we report the median savings, not the maximum.

Airline Review Criteria

When we review or compare airlines, we evaluate them across these standardized criteria:

CategoryWhat We EvaluateData Source
PricingAverage fare, fare class availability, consolidator accessSabre GDS, airline website
Route NetworkDestinations served, frequency, codeshare partnersGDS schedule data, OAG
On-Time PerformanceArrival punctuality, cancellation rateUS DOT / BTS data
Cabin ProductSeat pitch, IFE, Wi-Fi, mealsFirst-hand editorial review
Customer ServiceComplaint rate, resolution timeDOT consumer complaints, editorial experience

How We Select Featured Deals

Deals featured on our homepage and deals page are selected based on:

  • Savings magnitude: The fare must represent at least 20% savings vs. the current retail benchmark.
  • Availability: The fare must have confirmed availability in GDS at the time of posting.
  • Route relevance: Priority is given to popular routes from major US cities.
  • Booking window: Deals must have travel dates at least 14 days in the future to allow time for booking.

We do not accept payment from airlines to feature specific deals. Deal selection is entirely based on value to the traveler.

Methodology Limitations

We acknowledge the following limitations:

  • Consolidator fares are subject to availability and may sell out before a reader can book.
  • Retail benchmark prices fluctuate; a comparison valid today may not reflect tomorrow's pricing.
  • Our airline reviews reflect editorial opinion informed by data. Different travelers may weight criteria differently.
  • We primarily serve US-based travelers. Pricing and availability may differ for international readers.

Questions About Our Methodology?

If you have questions about how we compare fares or evaluate airlines, contact our editorial team at [email protected]. We welcome feedback on our methodology.

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