How to Find Cheap Flights Tips and Tricks
Finding affordable flights can be a game-changer for your travel plans. Whether you're planning a vacation or a business trip, knowing how to save on airfare can make a big difference. This article will walk you through various tips and tricks to help you snag the best deals on flights.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding how airlines set prices can help you find cheaper flights.
- Booking your flight at the right time can save you a lot of money.
- Using flight search engines can help you compare prices and find the best deals.
- Joining airline loyalty programs can offer benefits and save you money.
- Being aware of hidden fees can help you avoid extra costs.
Understanding Airline Pricing Strategies
Airline pricing can seem like a mystery, but it's actually based on a complex set of factors. Airlines use advanced computer algorithms to set prices, taking into account things like the time of year, passenger demand, and even the weather. These systems are very smart, so old tricks to find cheap flights don't work anymore.
How Airlines Set Prices
Airlines divide seats into different price categories, known as 'fare classes' or 'fare buckets.' For example, the first 20 seats might be $150, the next 20 might be $180, and so on. If the cheaper seats sell out, the price goes up. If the more expensive seats aren't selling, the price might go down.
The Role of Supply and Demand
The price of a flight can change based on how many people want to fly and how many seats are available. If a lot of people want to fly to a certain place, the price will go up. If not many people are interested, the price will go down.
Seasonal Variations in Pricing
Prices also change depending on the season. For example, flights are usually more expensive during holidays and summer vacations because more people are traveling. On the other hand, flights might be cheaper during off-peak times when fewer people are flying.
Understanding these factors can help you find better deals on flights. The story of airline pricing strategies is a fascinating one, and knowing how it works can save you money.
Best Times to Book Flights
Booking flights at the right time can save you a lot of money. Here are some tips to help you find the best times to book your flights.
Utilizing Flight Search Engines
Benefits of Using Aggregators
Flight search engines have made it super easy to find the cheapest ticket. You no longer have to search manually, city by city, day by day. Websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights offer explore tools that allow you to put in your home airport and see a map of the world with all the flights on it. This allows you to easily compare multiple destinations without having to brainstorm every possible option.
Setting Up Fare Alerts
Setting up fare alerts can save you a lot of money. Many flight search engines let you set up alerts for specific routes. When the price drops, you'll get an email or notification. This way, you can book at the right time and save big.
Comparing Multiple Platforms
Not all flight search websites are created equal, and all have their pros and cons. Since there is no perfect airline search engine, you’ll want to search a few to compare. Even the best have their faults. That said, I have a few favorites I always start with as they tend to consistently show the best results. To me, the best websites to find a cheap flight are the following:
- Google Flights
- Priceline
- Momondo
Remember that Southwest doesn’t show up on search engines and OTAs, so check their website directly.
Leveraging Airline Loyalty Programs
Earning and Redeeming Miles
If you fly often with a certain airline, joining their loyalty program can save you a lot. You can accumulate miles through flights, credit card purchases, or special promotions. These miles can be redeemed for discounted or even free tickets. It's a great way to make your travel more affordable.
Credit Card Partnerships
Many airlines partner with credit card companies to offer co-branded cards. Using these cards for everyday purchases can help you earn miles faster. Some cards even offer sign-up bonuses that can give you a big boost in miles right from the start. This is a smart way to maximize your rewards.
Status Benefits and Perks
Staying loyal to one airline or an airline alliance can help you reach status levels quicker. Higher status levels come with perks like free upgrades, priority boarding, and extra baggage allowance. These benefits can make your travel experience much more comfortable and enjoyable.
Joining a loyalty program and sticking with it can lead to significant savings and a better travel experience overall.
Exploring Alternative Airports and Routes
Flying from Nearby Airports
Sometimes, the cost of a flight from your regular airport is so high that it can make sense to use a second or perhaps third choice of airport. Many airlines allow you to search all airports in a region by specifying the destination as the city instead of a particular airport or by ticking a box marked "search nearby airports." You can also do this for leaving too. It might be cheaper to fly out from a nearby airport. I often search other airports to see if it’s cheaper to fly/drive/train there and then fly to my final destination. For long international flights, it can be worth the added time!
Booking Connecting Flights
Booking connecting flights can sometimes be cheaper than flying direct. Consider adding a stopover for an extra adventure. This can also break up a long journey and give you a chance to explore another city. Use Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare your options.
Using Positioning Flights
Positioning flights are short flights that take you to a major hub where you can catch a cheaper flight to your final destination. This can be a great way to save money, especially on international trips. Be flexible with your destination and dates to find the best deals.
The nearest airport is not always the easiest and most cost-effective option. When planning your trip, it is definitely worth considering nearby airports to find the best possible deal.
Taking Advantage of Special Deals and Discounts
Flash Sales and Promotions
Before you start looking for specific flights, make sure you’ve signed up for some newsletters. Joining the mailing list for airlines and last-minute deal websites will give you access to the absolute best deals out there. Sure, 99% of them might not fit your itinerary but keeping your eye on the deals will ensure you don’t miss an amazing opportunity.
Student and Senior Discounts
If you are a student (or under 26), there are many discounts available to you. You can usually find prices 10-20% off the standard fare. Travel agencies like Flight Centre and Student Universe can help find you a cheap ticket. Don’t overlook them!
Group Travel Offers
If you frequently fly with a particular airline, you can save a lot by joining their loyalty programme. Accumulate miles through flights, credit card purchases, or promotions, and redeem them for discounted or even free tickets.
Avoiding Hidden Fees and Extra Costs
When booking flights, especially with budget airlines, don't be fooled by prices that seem incredibly low. Many promotional prices come with hidden costs that can quickly add up. From air taxes to baggage fees or seat selection, there are many things that may increase the price.
Baggage Fees
Budget airlines often charge fees for checked bags, carry-ons, and even printing your boarding pass. Be sure to add up the cost of the ticket and the fees to make sure that the price is lower than a larger carrier.
Seat Selection Charges
Low-cost airlines may tempt you with low base fares but charge for additional services such as seat selection. Take these extra costs into account to make sure you get the best deal.
In-Flight Amenities
These airlines survive by charging passengers for everything imaginable, with high fees to buy food or even water onboard. Some of these airlines even charge an extra fee for purchasing tickets online – a fee you can avoid by buying your tickets from the airport.
It's easy for travel budgets to get away from us. Here are 46 hidden travel costs and hidden fees to help you save money on the road.
Conclusion
Finding cheap flights doesn't have to be a daunting task. By using the tips and tricks we've shared, you can save a lot of money on your next trip. Remember to be flexible with your travel dates, compare prices across different platforms, and keep an eye out for special deals. With a little bit of planning and research, you can find great deals and make your travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to book a flight?
The best time to book a flight is usually between 1 to 3 months before your trip. Booking too early or too late can sometimes mean higher prices.
Are flights cheaper on certain days of the week?
Yes, flights are often cheaper on weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Avoid booking on weekends if possible.
How can I avoid hidden fees when booking flights?
To avoid hidden fees, always read the fine print. Look out for extra charges like baggage fees, seat selection fees, and in-flight amenities.
What are fare alerts and how do they work?
Fare alerts notify you when flight prices drop. You can set them up on various travel websites and apps to get the best deals.
Is it cheaper to fly from alternative airports?
Yes, flying from nearby airports can sometimes be cheaper. Always compare prices from different airports to find the best deal.
Can loyalty programs really save me money?
Absolutely! Earning and redeeming miles through airline loyalty programs can lead to significant savings, especially if you fly often.
