Finding cheap flights is almost like a modern art form, especially for savvy travelers. But aside from providing the satisfaction of getting a good deal, affordable airfare not only makes travel more accessible but also frees up your budget for unique experiences once you reach your destination. Here are some beneficial strategies to help you hunt down the best deals and potentially reduce your travel expenses.
Start With Flexible Travel Dates
One of the more effective ways to get cheaper flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Airfare prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of year, and whether there are any upcoming holidays. Generally, flying mid-week is cheaper than flying on weekends because airlines experience lower demand on these days. Similarly, red-eye flights or flights at less popular hours (like early morning or late night) are usually less expensive.
Utilizing tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, you can view a calendar of prices for a whole month. This allows you to easily spot which days offer the lowest fares. Additionally, being open to traveling during off-peak seasons can lead to substantial savings and fewer crowds at your destination.
Use Multiple Search Engines
Not all flight search engines are created equal, and no single engine consistently offers the best deals. To widen your net, use multiple platforms when searching for flights. Each site has different deals, and some may access special rates that others don’t. Popular search engines like Kayak, Expedia, and Momondo are great starting points, but also consider lesser-known sites that might unearth hidden deals.
Remember to clear your browser’s cookies or use incognito mode while searching. Some sites track your visits and might raise prices simply based on your search history.
Book at the Right Time
While there’s no magical time to book the cheapest flights, certain trends can guide your booking strategy. Typically, booking a domestic flight one to three months in advance and an international flight two to eight months in advance offers better deals. However, this can vary by destination and time of year.
Tuesday afternoon is often cited as a good time to check for reduced fares. This is because airlines typically release their flight sales early in the week, and by Tuesday afternoon, competitors are matching the lower prices on overlapping routes.
Set Up Alerts
Price alerts can be game-changers in securing cheap flights. Tools like Google Flights and Hopper allow you to set alerts for specific routes. You’ll receive notifications when prices drop, or when they’re expected to increase, helping you book at the optimal time.
Leverage Airline Alliances and Partnerships
Understanding airline alliances and partnerships can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel. Booking a flight with an airline that has partners can often open up cheaper routes or allow for easier round-the-world tickets. Additionally, if you have frequent flyer miles with one airline, you might be able to book flights with any of its partners using those miles.
Consider Alternative Airports and Stopovers
Flying in or out of alternative airports near your destination or origin can sometimes be cheaper. For example, flying into a smaller regional airport instead of a major international hub can save money. Similarly, opting for flights with stopovers, though less convenient, can lower your airfare.
Check for Airline Special Offers and Error Fares
Airlines occasionally make pricing mistakes or offer limited-time promotions that are cheap. Websites and apps like Secret Flying and The Flight Deal are excellent for catching these error fares or special deals before they disappear.
Book One-Way Flights and Mix and Match Airlines
Sometimes booking two one-way flights with different airlines can end up being cheaper than booking a round trip with the same airline. This approach also offers more flexibility in your travel schedule. Services like Skyscanner excel at finding affordable one-way fares and can mix and match airlines to get the best overall deal for your entire trip.
Finding cheap flights requires a mix of strategic planning, flexibility, and a bit of luck. By employing these tips, you stand to reduce your travel expenses. Remember, the more you save on flights, the more you can spend on experiences that enrich your travels, making every trip unforgettable.