Aug 31, 2024

Top Tips to Find Cheap Flights: Save Big on Your Next Trip!

 

Top Tips to Find Cheap Flights

Finding cheap flights can feel like a game of chance, but with the right strategies, you can unlock great deals and save a significant amount on your next trip. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a long vacation, these tips will help you book the best flights without breaking the bank. From using search engines effectively to setting price alerts and knowing the best time to book, here’s everything you need to know to fly affordably.

Top Tips to Find Cheap Flights

1. Use Flight Search Engines Wisely

Flight search engines like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights are powerful tools for finding cheap flights. These platforms aggregate prices from various airlines, making it easy to compare options and find the best deals. Here’s how to make the most of them:

  • Use Multiple Search Engines: Different search engines sometimes display slightly different prices due to partnerships with specific airlines. Compare prices across Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights to ensure you’re getting the lowest fare.

  • Set Flexible Search Parameters: Instead of entering exact dates, use the “Flexible Dates” option to see prices for the entire month. This way, you can identify the cheapest days to fly.

  • Explore Nearby Airports: Expanding your search to include nearby airports can sometimes reveal significantly cheaper flights. For instance, flying out of a less popular airport or arriving at a nearby city could save you a substantial amount.

2. Set Price Alerts for Your Desired Routes

Price alerts are a fantastic way to monitor flight prices without constantly checking yourself. Most flight search engines offer this feature, allowing you to get notified when prices drop. Here’s how to use them:

  • Sign Up for Price Alerts on Multiple Platforms: Setting alerts on platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak ensures you won’t miss any sudden price drops. Be sure to create alerts for multiple dates and nearby airports to maximize your chances of finding a deal.

  • Act Quickly When Prices Drop: When you receive an alert about a price drop, act fast! Cheap flights, especially for popular routes, tend to sell out quickly.

3. Book at the Right Time

Timing is crucial when booking flights. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule, there are general patterns that can help you save.

  • Book Early but Not Too Early: The sweet spot for booking domestic flights is usually 1 to 3 months in advance, while international flights are best booked 2 to 8 months ahead. Booking too early or too late can result in higher prices.

  • Fly Midweek: Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are often cheaper because fewer people travel on these days. Try to avoid flying on Fridays and Sundays, as these are the most popular (and expensive) travel days.

  • Check Flights Early in the Morning or Late at Night: Airlines often release discounted seats early in the morning or late at night, especially if they’re trying to fill the last few seats on a flight.

4. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Destinations

Flexibility is key to finding cheap flights. If you can be flexible with your travel dates or even your destination, you can unlock significant savings.

  • Use “Everywhere” Search Option: On Skyscanner, you can search for flights to “Everywhere,” which will show you the cheapest destinations to fly to on your chosen dates.

  • Avoid Peak Travel Seasons: Traveling during off-peak times, such as late winter or early fall, can save you money. Avoid popular travel periods like Christmas, New Year, and school vacations when prices are at their highest.

  • Consider Alternate Routes: Sometimes, booking a flight with a layover or using budget airlines can significantly reduce the cost. You can even book separate tickets for each leg of your journey if it works out cheaper.

5. Clear Your Cookies or Use Incognito Mode

Flight prices can fluctuate based on your browsing history. Airlines and booking sites use cookies to track your searches, and repeated searches can sometimes cause prices to increase.

  • Use Incognito Mode: When searching for flights, use your browser’s incognito or private mode to prevent your search history from affecting the prices shown.

  • Clear Cookies and Cache: If you’re browsing normally, clear your cookies and cache regularly to avoid price hikes based on previous searches.

6. Use Airline Reward Programs and Credit Card Points

Frequent flyer programs and travel credit cards can save you a lot of money, especially if you travel often. Many credit cards offer travel rewards, points, or miles that can be redeemed for flights.

  • Join Airline Loyalty Programs: Even if you don’t fly often, joining these programs is free and can eventually lead to discounted flights or free upgrades. Ex. British Airways Executive Club, Emirates Skywards etc. 

  • Use Travel Credit Cards: Some credit cards offer substantial sign-up bonuses, free checked bags, and other travel perks. Be sure to pay off your balance each month to avoid interest charges.

7. Consider Budget Airlines, But Beware of Extra Fees

Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Spirit Airlines offer incredibly low fares but often charge extra for things like checked luggage, seat selection, and even carry-on bags. Here’s how to navigate the budget airline landscape:

  • Check the Total Cost: Always compare the total cost, including baggage fees and other extras, to ensure it’s still a good deal compared to full-service airlines.

  • Pack Light: Save money by packing only a carry-on and carefully following the airline’s baggage policies.

8. Be Ready to Book When You See a Good Deal

Cheap flight deals don’t last long, so when you find one, don’t hesitate. Prices can change within hours, and waiting too long might mean missing out on a great opportunity.

  • Use Booking Apps: Download apps like Hopper, Skyscanner, and Kayak to book on the go when you receive an alert for a good deal.

  • Have Your Payment Info Ready: Save your payment details on your favorite booking platforms to speed up the checkout process and secure your fare.

Finding cheap flights takes a bit of patience, research, and flexibility, but the savings can be significant. By using search engines wisely, setting alerts, and knowing when to book, you can score amazing deals on flights for your next adventure. Happy travels, and may your next journey be budget-friendly and unforgettable!


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