10 Tips to Score Cheap Flights: Airplane Travel Doesn't Have to be Expensive
Let's be real, traveling the world is amazing, but nobody likes draining their bank account just to get from point A to B. Lucky for you, I've mastered the art of finding budget-friendly flights, and I'm here to share some tips and tricks so you can save that cash for the fun stuff—like eating your way through the street food stalls of Bangkok or splurging on gelato in Rome. Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. Be Flexible with Your Dates
Airfare prices can vary wildly depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even the time of day. If you can, try to keep your travel dates flexible. Use tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner to see how prices change around your preferred dates.
Pro Tip: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually cheaper days to fly. If you're willing to catch a red-eye or an early morning flight, you can save even more.
2. Use Fare Comparison Websites
This is a biggie. Websites like Kayak, Momondo, and Hopper are lifesavers when it comes to finding cheap flights. They compare prices from tons of airlines and often include budget carriers that might not show up on other platforms.
My Insider Tip: Set fare alerts to get notified when prices drop for your chosen destination. Sometimes, patience really does pay off!
3. Book at the Right Time
Timing is everything. Generally, for domestic flights, booking 1-3 months in advance works best, while international flights are usually cheaper when booked 3-6 months ahead. But don’t stress if you’re a last-minute planner; there are always deals to be found!
Did You Know? The best time to book is usually during the "golden hour"—Tuesday afternoons when airlines release discounted fares.
4. Consider Budget Airlines
Sure, budget airlines might not offer the same luxuries as traditional carriers, but they can seriously slash your travel expenses. Airlines like Ryanair in Europe, JetBlue in the U.S., and AirAsia in Asia are known for their super cheap fares.
Heads Up: Be prepared for additional fees. Budget airlines often charge for things like baggage, seat selection, and even snacks. But hey, if you’re traveling light, they’re worth it!
5. Fly Into Alternative Airports
Sometimes, flying into a nearby airport can save you a chunk of change. For example, if you're planning to visit San Francisco, check flights into Oakland or San Jose instead. In Europe, consider flying into cities like Girona instead of Barcelona.
Hot Tip: Use the "Nearby Airports" feature on booking websites to see if landing a bit farther from your destination can help you save.
6. Use Points and Miles
Okay, if you’re not signed up for a frequent flyer program yet, what are you waiting for?! Even if you’re an occasional traveler, those points can add up. Also, consider using credit cards that offer travel rewards for even more savings.
I always check out The Points Guy for tips on how to maximize my points. Trust me, free flights are so worth the effort!
7. Book One-Way Tickets
Sometimes, booking two one-way tickets on different airlines can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket on a single airline. Use websites like Kiwi.com to piece together different flight legs for the best deals.
8. Don’t Forget About Hidden-City Ticketing
This one’s a bit controversial, but it’s worth mentioning. Hidden-city ticketing involves booking a flight with a layover in your intended destination and then skipping the final leg. Sites like Skiplagged specialize in these types of deals. Just know that airlines frown upon it, so use at your own risk!
Disclaimer: Don’t check any bags if you’re planning to skip the final leg—your luggage will end up at the final destination!
9. Use VPNs for Regional Pricing
Here's a sneaky trick: flight prices can vary based on where you're searching from. Sometimes, using a VPN to change your location can score you a better deal. Try browsing from a country with a weaker currency or where the airline is based.
10. Pack Smart to Save on Fees
Lastly, don’t let baggage fees eat into your savings. Invest in a good carry-on bag and learn to pack smart. Rolling your clothes, using packing cubes, and wearing your heaviest items on the plane can help you avoid extra fees.
By following my flight tips, you’ll be well on your way to booking those cheap flights and living your best travel life without breaking the bank.