Google Flights is a powerful tool that can help you find the best flight deals quickly and easily. Whether you're planning a spontaneous weekend getaway or a long international adventure, using Google Flights can save you both time and money. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find cheap flights on Google Flights, complete with tips and hacks to help you maximize your savings.
How to Find Cheap Flights on Google Flights
1. Get to Know Google Flights: The Basics
Google Flights is a free flight search engine that allows you to compare flight prices across different airlines, filter search results based on your preferences, and book directly through airlines or third-party websites. Here are the basics to get you started:
Enter Your Departure and Destination Cities: Start by entering your departure and arrival cities in the search bar. If you’re flexible, you can leave the destination blank and explore the cheapest places to fly.
Select Your Dates: Use the date picker to choose your travel dates. Google Flights makes it easy to see which days have the lowest prices, thanks to its intuitive calendar view with color-coded pricing.
Compare Prices Across Airlines: Once you’ve entered your travel details, Google Flights will show a list of available flights, sorted by price, duration, or other factors based on your preferences.
2. Use the Date Grid and Price Graph Features
One of Google Flights’ standout features is its ability to display flight prices over a range of dates. This allows you to find the cheapest days to fly with ease.
Date Grid: Click on the “Date Grid” button to view prices across different date combinations. This feature shows you the lowest prices for various departure and return date combinations, making it easy to identify the cheapest travel dates.
Price Graph: The “Price Graph” feature displays flight prices over a range of dates in a graphical format. It’s particularly useful if your travel dates are flexible, as it helps you visualize price trends and identify the most affordable days to fly.
3. Set Price Alerts to Monitor Flight Prices
Price alerts are an essential tool for finding cheap flights. They allow you to track flight prices and get notified when prices drop. Here’s how to set them up:
Turn On Price Tracking: After searching for your desired route, toggle on the “Track prices” button. Google Flights will send you email notifications whenever there’s a price change, helping you book at the optimal time.
Customize Your Alerts: You can track prices for specific dates or for general routes if you have flexible travel plans. This way, you’ll be the first to know about any sudden drops in flight prices.
4. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Airports
Flexibility is one of the most effective ways to find cheap flights. Here’s how to leverage this on Google Flights:
Flexible Dates: If your schedule allows, select “Flexible dates” when entering your travel dates. This option shows the cheapest flights available over a range of dates, allowing you to adjust your travel plans to snag the best deal.
Explore Nearby Airports: Click on “Nearby airports” to include additional departure and arrival options. Flying out of a less popular airport or arriving at a nearby city can often save you a lot of money.
5. Use the “Explore” Feature for Inspiration and Deals
Google Flights’ “Explore” feature is a game-changer for flexible travelers. It allows you to see a map of destinations with prices, making it easy to spot cheap flights.
Access the Explore Feature: Click on “Explore” on the Google Flights homepage. Enter your departure city and select flexible dates, such as “1-week trip in November.” You’ll see a map filled with destination options and their corresponding prices.
Discover Cheap Destinations: Use this tool to discover affordable destinations you might not have considered. It’s perfect for spontaneous trips or when you just want to get away without a specific destination in mind.
6. Use Google Flights Filters to Refine Your Search
Google Flights offers a range of filters that allow you to customize your search based on your preferences and budget:
Stopover Filters: Choose whether you want nonstop flights, one stop, or multiple stops. Nonstop flights are often more expensive, so consider one-stop flights if you’re looking to save.
Baggage Filters: Make sure to filter for airlines that offer free baggage or add baggage fees into your calculations to avoid any surprises at checkout.
Flight Duration and Airline Preference: Use the “Duration” filter to set maximum travel times or exclude long layovers. You can also filter by preferred airlines if you have loyalty points or memberships.
7. Book Directly Through Airlines to Avoid Extra Fees
One of the best parts about Google Flights is that it directs you to book directly with the airline, avoiding additional fees that third-party booking sites often charge.
Avoid Booking Fees: Google Flights will show you multiple booking options, often including the airline’s website. Booking directly with the airline not only avoids booking fees but also gives you more flexibility if you need to change or cancel your flight.
Check for Airline Sales: Sometimes, booking directly with the airline can reveal special sales or promo codes that aren’t listed on Google Flights. Be sure to check for these deals before finalizing your purchase.
8. Use Incognito Mode or Clear Cookies When Searching
Flight prices can sometimes increase based on your search history due to dynamic pricing algorithms. To avoid this:
Use Incognito Mode: Searching in your browser’s incognito or private mode prevents websites from tracking your search history, which can help you see the lowest available prices.
Clear Cookies and Cache: Regularly clearing your browser’s cookies and cache can help reset prices if you’ve been searching repeatedly.
9. Book at the Right Time: When to Buy Your Tickets
Knowing when to book your flights can be just as important as knowing where to look.
Book 1-3 Months in Advance for Domestic Flights: For domestic flights, booking 1-3 months in advance typically yields the best prices.
Book 2-8 Months in Advance for International Flights: International flights are often cheapest when booked 2-8 months before departure.
Avoid Booking Too Early or Too Late: Booking too early or too late can result in higher prices. Aim to book within the recommended time frames for the best deals.
Google Flights is an invaluable tool for finding cheap flights, offering powerful features like price tracking, flexible date searches, and the ability to explore a wide range of destinations. By using these tips and hacks, you can take full advantage of Google Flights to find the best deals and make your travel dreams a reality without overspending. Happy travels, and may your next flight be a budget-friendly one!