Top Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Discover the best tips and tricks for finding cheap flights, saving both your money and time while booking trips.
In the digital age, finding cheap flights has become a necessary skill for many travelers. Whether you're planning an international getaway or a short domestic trip, the price of airfare can make or break your travel budget. Over the years, savvy travelers and industry experts have developed a collection of tried-and-true methods for scoring the best deals on flights. Below are some top tips that will help you find cheap flights and save money on your next trip.
1. Use Incognito Mode or Clear Your Browser Cookies
One of the first tips for finding cheap flights involves how you search for them online. Many airlines and travel booking sites use "dynamic pricing" models, which means they tailor prices based on your browsing activity. If you've been searching for the same flight repeatedly, you may notice the price creeping up every time you check. This happens because the website wants to encourage you to book as soon as possible, fearing that the price will increase even more.
To avoid this, always use "incognito mode" or "private browsing" when searching for flights. Another option is to regularly clear your browser cookies, so the websites can’t track your search history and inflate prices. With a fresh search, you'll often see lower prices.
2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Flexibility is one of the biggest factors in finding cheap flights. Flights on weekends, especially on Fridays and Sundays, tend to be more expensive than those in the middle of the week. Similarly, flights during public holidays or school vacations tend to be overpriced due to high demand.
If you can move your travel dates to less-popular times, such as mid-week or during off-peak seasons, you'll likely find tickets at a lower cost. Certain travel tools, like Google Flights or Skyscanner, allow you to view a calendar of flight prices over time, making it easier to pinpoint the cheapest travel dates.
3. Leverage Price Alerts
Price comparison tools are your best friends when it comes to finding cheap flights. Platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights allow you to set up price alerts for flights to specific destinations. These alerts notify you when prices drop or when there are particularly good deals available.
By setting up multiple price alerts, you can monitor fluctuations without constantly checking yourself. When prices hit your target, you can book at the optimal time.
4. Book in Advance, but Not Too Early
When it comes to buying flights, timing is everything. While last-minute deals can sometimes be great, it’s usually best to book flights several weeks or even months in advance, especially for international travel. Most experts recommend the “sweet spot” for booking is between 6–8 weeks before departure.
Booking too early (like 6–12 months in advance) can sometimes result in higher fares, as airlines may still be gauging demand for those flights. Conversely, waiting until the last minute can leave you with sky-high prices when there are limited remaining seats.
5. Utilize Budget Airlines
In recent years, the rise of budget or low-cost airlines has revolutionized how people travel. Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Spirit often offer significantly cheaper fares than major carriers. However, keep in mind that many of these budget airlines make up for lower ticket prices by charging for extras like checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals.
If you're trying to save, consider traveling light with just a carry-on and forego any unnecessary add-ons. While it might seem inconvenient, it can save you a considerable amount of money over the course of your trip.