Finding good deals on flights can feel like a treasure hunt, but with the right strategies, spotting the best offers becomes a breeze. Whether you’re making spontaneous weekend plans or prepping for a long-awaited holiday, secure your dream ticket without breaking the bank using these helpful tips.
Flexibility is your friend: To snatch the best deals, flexibility in terms of travel dates and times is key. Consider flying during off-peak hours or on weekdays when flights generally cost less. In addition, keep your destination options open. Sometimes, less popular airports located near your desired location offer cheaper fares.
Set fare alerts: Most travel booking websites and apps have the option to set fare alerts for specific routes. Set alerts for your preferred route and get notified as soon as prices drop.
Use flight comparison tools: Reputable platforms like Skyscanner, Expedia, and Google Flights allow you to compare fares across different airlines. This way, you can spot the cheapest options easily without having to scour through multiple airline websites.
Consider multi-city flights and layovers: Direct flights are generally more expensive. So, if time permits, consider booking flights with layovers or opt for multi-city routes.
Sign up for frequent flyer programs and newsletters: Joining airline loyalty programs is a great way to earn points for every mile you fly which you can redeem for free flights or upgrades. Furthermore, subscribing to airlines’ newsletters could provide you with exclusive deals and early bird discounts.
Booking in advance and waiting for the last minute can both work: While in general flights are cheaper when booked well in advance, some airlines also offer last-minute discounts to fill unsold seats. So, both early birds and last-minute planners have chances to grab good deals.
Browse in ‘incognito’ mode: Some flight booking websites reportedly track users’ browsing history and raise prices accordingly. To avoid this potential price hike, use the private browsing or ‘incognito’ mode of your web browser.
Consider travel packages: Often travel agencies or websites offer packages that bundle your flight with a hotel or car rental at a comparatively cheaper price.
Remember, finding a good deal doesn’t just mean finding the cheapest flight. Comfort, travel time, and convenience should also be taken into account. Review your options well before making a decision and happy flying!