How to Find the Cheapest Flight: 10 Proven Strategies to Save Big on Airfare
In today’s world of travel, finding the cheapest flight can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Airlines are constantly changing prices, and without the right strategies, you could end up overpaying for your next trip. But don’t worry! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share with you the best tips and tools for scoring the lowest airfare. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just planning your annual vacation, these insider tips will help you save hundreds of dollars. Plus, we’ll link you to the best flight comparison sites to book your tickets directly!
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them.
Best Time to Book Flights
One of the most common questions travelers ask is, “When is the best time to book a flight?” While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, certain times of the week and year offer better deals.
Key Tips:
- Book 6-8 Weeks in Advance: According to studies, the sweet spot for booking the cheapest flights is typically 6 to 8 weeks before your departure date.
- Best Days to Book: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are historically the best days to book flights as airlines often release sales mid-week.
- Avoid Peak Seasons: If possible, avoid traveling during peak seasons such as holidays or school vacations. Try flying during shoulder seasons (e.g., April-May, September-October) when demand is lower.
Pro Tip: Use flexible date search tools on flight comparison websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the best fares. These tools allow you to see how fares fluctuate over time.
Tools for Finding Cheap Flights
Having the right tools in your arsenal is essential for finding the cheapest flight deals. Below are the best flight comparison websites and tools to help you save time and money.
Top Flight Search Engines:
- Skyscanner
- Skyscanner is a must for finding cheap flights. Its whole month view allows you to see the cheapest days to fly over an entire month.
- Google Flights
- Google Flights is one of the most powerful flight search tools. It provides flexible date searches, fare tracking, and the ability to explore destinations based on your budget.
- Hopper
- Hopper predicts future flight prices and lets you know whether you should book now or wait. Their app will notify you when prices drop.
- Trip.com
- Aviasales
- Booking.com
- Expedia.com
- Priceline
Booking Hacks for Cheap Flights
Sometimes, the biggest savings come from simple booking hacks that most travelers overlook. Here are some strategies that can reduce the cost of your flight:
- Clear Your Browser Cookies: Airlines use cookies to track your searches, and repeated searches can drive up prices. Use incognito mode or clear your cookies before checking fares.
- Set Price Alerts: Tools like Skyscanner and Kayak allow you to set alerts for specific routes, so you’ll be notified when prices drop.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Budget airlines often advertise low prices but tack on extra fees for luggage, seat selection, and more. Always check the total cost before booking.
Pro Tip: Consider booking one-way flights separately. Sometimes booking two one-way flights can be cheaper than a round trip. Momondo often shows these types of fares.
Airline Reward Programs & Credit Cards
If you’re a frequent traveler, airline reward programs and credit card points can save you hundreds, if not thousands, on flights. Here’s how to get the most out of them:
Join Frequent Flyer Programs:
- Sign up for frequent flyer programs with airlines you use regularly. This is free and can earn you miles for every flight, which can later be redeemed for free flights or upgrades.
Use Travel Credit Cards:
- Travel credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture offer sign-up bonuses that can cover the cost of one or more flights.
- These cards also often provide extra points for spending on flights and hotels. Use them wisely to maximize your rewards.
How to Find Error Fares
Error fares are essentially pricing mistakes made by airlines. If you’re quick enough, you can snag these ridiculously low fares before they’re corrected.
How to Spot Error Fares:
- Websites like Going.com and Fly4Free are dedicated to finding and sharing error fares with their audience.
- Set up alerts on flight deal websites so you’re notified as soon as an error fare is available.
Important: If you book an error fare, wait until the ticket is confirmed by the airline before making any additional travel arrangements. Airlines can sometimes cancel these tickets.
How to Find Last-Minute Flight Deals
Booking last-minute flights doesn’t always mean paying exorbitant prices. There are several ways to find last-minute deals if you’re flexible and persistent.
Pro Tip: Check both your airline’s website and third-party websites like Expedia or Priceline for last-minute offers. Airlines may offer direct discounts, but third-party sellers may have unsold inventory to unload.
Be Flexible with Your Dates and Destinations
Being flexible with your travel dates can save you significant money on flights. Instead of sticking to exact dates, use a flexible date search to see when the best deals are available.
Tools to Help You Stay Flexible:
- Skyscanner’s Everywhere Search allows you to search for the cheapest flights anywhere in the world during a given time period.
- Google Flights can also show you cheaper options if you’re flexible with your departure and return dates.
Check Nearby Airports
Sometimes flying out of a nearby airport can offer cheaper flight options. For example, flying out of a smaller airport or even an airport in a neighboring city can save you a significant amount.
- Use tools like Google Flights to check multiple nearby airports to find the lowest fare.
Use Budget Airlines
While budget airlines like Ryanair or Spirit Airlines may not offer all the perks of major carriers, they can be significantly cheaper for short-haul flights.
Key Points to Consider:
- Budget airlines often charge for extras such as checked bags, meals, and seat selection.
- Be sure to check their baggage policies to avoid paying hefty fees at the airport.
Pro Tip: Consider combining a budget airline with a full-service airline. Sometimes, booking a budget airline for a shorter leg of your journey can save you money on a longer-haul flight.
Subscribe to Flight Alerts
To ensure you never miss a great deal, subscribe to flight alerts from the following services:
- Going: Sends email alerts about cheap flights, often with up to 90% off.
- The Flight Deal: Focuses on flights departing from the U.S. with deep discounts.
Finding the cheapest flights requires a combination of tools, timing, and a little bit of patience. By using the tips mentioned above and being flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can save big on airfare. Be sure to use our affiliate links throughout this guide to book your next trip and maximize your savings!
Ready to start saving on flights? Use these strategies today, and you’ll be flying for less in no time!
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them.
