Traveling is an exciting adventure, but the cost of flights can often be a significant hurdle. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, finding affordable flights can make a huge difference in your travel budget. With a bit of research and some insider tips, you can secure the best deals and save money on airfare. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to find cheap flights, featuring tried-and-true strategies to get you the best value for your money.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
One of the most effective ways to find cheap flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Airlines often have different pricing structures depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even the time of day. Flying during off-peak times, such as mid-week or during the shoulder seasons (the period between peak and off-peak seasons), can result in significant savings. Additionally, flights early in the morning or late at night tend to be cheaper since fewer people want to travel at those times.
To identify the cheapest travel dates, use fare comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak. These platforms allow you to view prices across a range of dates, making it easier to pinpoint the most affordable options. Some of these tools even have price alert features, which notify you when fares drop for your preferred route.
Use Incognito Mode When Searching
Airlines and travel booking websites use cookies to track your search history, which can sometimes lead to higher prices if they notice you’re repeatedly searching for the same route. To avoid this, always use incognito mode or private browsing when searching for flights. This prevents websites from storing your search data and ensures that you see the most accurate, up-to-date prices.
In Google Chrome or Safari, you can open an incognito window by pressing Ctrl+Shift+N (or Command+Shift+N on a Mac). In Firefox, you can do the same by pressing Ctrl+Shift+P (or Command+Shift+P on a Mac). By using this method, you can avoid the potential price increases that sometimes occur when websites detect repeated searches.
Consider Alternative Airports
Major cities often have more than one airport, and sometimes flying into or out of a nearby airport can save you a considerable amount of money. For example, if you’re flying to New York City, consider searching for flights to Newark (EWR) or LaGuardia (LGA) in addition to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Similarly, if you’re departing from Los Angeles, check flights from both Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the smaller Burbank Airport (BUR).
Many flight search engines, such as Google Flights, allow you to search multiple airports simultaneously, making it easy to compare prices. In some cases, you might find that flying into a smaller or less popular airport can also lead to shorter wait times and fewer delays.
Take Advantage of Layovers
While non-stop flights are often more convenient, they’re usually more expensive than flights with layovers. If you’re willing to trade a bit of time for significant savings, consider booking a flight with one or more layovers. Sometimes, the savings can be substantial, especially for long-haul flights.
Additionally, you can use layovers to your advantage by booking a multi-city trip. Some airlines allow you to include an extended layover (a stopover) of several days in your ticket price, giving you the opportunity to explore another city at no extra cost. For example, if you’re flying from New York to Paris, you might be able to add a few days in Reykjavik, Iceland, for a minimal increase in your fare.
Sign Up for Fare Alerts and Newsletters
Staying informed about fare drops and special promotions is key to finding cheap flights. Many travel websites and airlines offer fare alert services that notify you when prices drop on routes you’re interested in. Signing up for these alerts can give you a competitive edge, as you’ll be among the first to know about the best deals.
Additionally, subscribing to newsletters from airlines and travel agencies can provide you with exclusive deals and promotional codes. Many airlines offer flash sales and limited-time promotions to their subscribers, which can result in significant savings. Just make sure to act quickly when you receive these alerts, as the best deals tend to sell out fast.
Use Points and Miles
If you frequently fly or use a travel credit card, you may have accumulated points or miles that can be redeemed for free or discounted flights. While it may seem obvious, many travelers forget to check their points and miles balances before booking a flight. Using these rewards can lead to substantial savings, or even cover the entire cost of your ticket.
Credit cards that offer travel rewards often come with sign-up bonuses that can be used for flights, hotels, and more. Additionally, some cards offer perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges, which can enhance your travel experience. If you’re not already using a travel rewards card, consider applying for one that aligns with your travel habits.
Book at the Right Time
Timing is crucial when it comes to booking cheap flights. While there’s no magic formula for finding the lowest fares, there are certain trends that can help you secure a better deal. According to travel experts, the best time to book a flight is typically between one and three months before your departure date for domestic flights and two to eight months in advance for international flights.
In addition to booking in advance, consider purchasing your ticket on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Studies have shown that fares tend to be lower on these days, possibly because airlines often release sales and promotions at the beginning of the week.
Consider Budget Airlines
Budget airlines can be a great option for finding cheap flights, especially for short-haul trips. Carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant in the United States, and Ryanair and EasyJet in Europe, offer no-frills service at a fraction of the cost of major airlines. However, it’s important to read the fine print, as budget airlines often charge extra fees for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments.
To get the best deal on a budget airline, be sure to factor in any additional costs before booking. If you’re traveling light and don’t mind sacrificing a few amenities, flying with a budget carrier can save you a significant amount of money.
Consider Hidden City Ticketing
Hidden city ticketing is a strategy where you book a flight with a layover in your intended destination, but you don’t take the final leg of the journey. For example, if you want to fly from Chicago to New York, but the direct flight is expensive, you might find a cheaper flight from Chicago to Boston with a layover in New York. You would then simply disembark in New York and skip the final leg to Boston.
While this method can result in substantial savings, it comes with risks. Airlines frown upon hidden city ticketing, and if they catch you, they may cancel your return flight or ban you from flying with them in the future. Additionally, this strategy only works if you’re traveling with carry-on luggage, as any checked bags would be sent to the final destination.
Use Flight Search Engines Wisely
Not all flight search engines are created equal, and using the right tools can make a big difference in finding cheap flights. In addition to Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak, consider using platforms like Momondo and Hopper. Momondo is particularly good for finding hidden deals, while Hopper uses historical data and AI to predict future price fluctuations and tell you the best time to book.
Another useful tool is ITA Matrix, a powerful search engine used by travel agents. While it’s not as user-friendly as some other options, it offers advanced search capabilities that can help you find the lowest fares.
Finding cheap flights requires a combination of strategy, flexibility, and a willingness to do a bit of research. By staying informed, using the right tools, and being open to alternative travel options, you can significantly reduce your travel expenses. Remember, the key to securing the best deals is to plan ahead, be flexible with your travel dates and destinations, and take advantage of all available resources. With these insider tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to finding affordable flights for your next adventure.
