“Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a plane ticket and that’s pretty close.”
Are you ready for your next adventure but worried about the cost of flights? Fear not! There are plenty of ways to score cheap flights and save money while traveling. From utilizing flight search engines to taking advantage of airline discounts, here are my 12 favorite ways to book cheap flights.
Use Skiplagged.com
Skiplagged is a website that allows you to find hidden city flights, which are flights with layovers in your desired destination that are cheaper than direct flights. For example, if you want to fly from New York to Los Angeles, you might find a cheaper flight with a layover in San Francisco. However, it’s important to note that airlines do not allow this practice and you will not be able to check a bag, but it can be a great way to save money on your ticket.
Check Skyscanner.com
Skyscanner is another website that can help you find cheap flights. They have a “Price Alert” feature that notifies you when the price of a particular flight drops. Additionally, they have a “Whole Month” search option that allows you to see the cheapest flights for an entire month, making it easier to find the most affordable travel dates.
Analyze Pricing Trends
If you have a specific destination and travel date in mind, it can be helpful to analyze pricing trends for that flight. Websites like Google Flights and Kayak have features that allow you to track flight prices over time. By analyzing these trends, you can determine the best time to buy your ticket and potentially save hundreds of dollars.
Check Flight Prices at Different Times
Flight prices can fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s a good idea to check prices at different times. According to travel experts, the best times to check for cheap flights are in the morning, afternoon, and evening. This way, you can catch price drops as they happen and snag a great deal.
Use Credit Card Points
Many credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for travel. By using a credit card to book your flight, you can earn points that can be used to offset the cost of your ticket. Some credit cards even offer sign-up bonuses that can provide enough points for a free flight.
Consider Flying Standby
If you’re flexible with your travel dates and don’t mind waiting at the airport, flying standby can be a great way to save money. Standby tickets are available for a discounted rate and can be purchased at the airport on the day of travel. However, there’s no guarantee that you’ll get a seat, so it’s important to have a backup plan.
Work for an Airline
If you’re interested in a career in the travel industry, working for an airline can be a great way to save money on flights. Many airlines offer free or discounted flights to their employees, as well as their family and friends. Additionally, airline employees often receive discounts on hotels and rental cars.
Check with the Airline Directly
Sometimes, the best way to find a cheap flight is to check with the airline directly. Many airlines offer discounts or special promotions that are not available through third-party websites. By calling the airline or checking their website, you can find out if there are any deals available for your desired destination.
Pay at the Airport in a Different Currency
If you’re traveling to a foreign country, it can be beneficial to pay for your ticket in the local currency. This is because airlines often offer lower prices to customers who pay in the local currency. However, it’s important to check with your credit card company to ensure that there are no foreign transaction fees.
Book Early or Last Minute
Booking your flight early or at the last minute can sometimes result in a cheaper fare. Booking early allows you to take advantage of early bird discounts, while booking last minute can result in unsold seats being offered at a lower price. However, this strategy is not always reliable and can be risky.
Use Google Flights
Google Flights is a powerful tool that allows you to search for flights and compare prices across multiple airlines. One of the best features of Google Flights is the ability to view a calendar of prices, which lets you quickly see which dates have the cheapest fares. Additionally, you can set up price alerts for specific flights, which will notify you when the price drops. By using Google Flights in combination with other tools and strategies, you can find the cheapest flights for your travel needs.
Sign Up for Airline Newsletters
By signing up for airline newsletters, you can be the first to know about special deals and promotions. Airlines often send out emails to their subscribers with discount codes or exclusive offers. Additionally, following airlines on social media can also provide access to special promotions and dealsm
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Destinations
Finally, being flexible with your travel dates and destinations can help you find the cheapest flights. If you’re willing to travel during off-peak times or to less popular destinations, you may be able to find a cheaper fare. Additionally, considering alternative airports or nearby cities can also result in significant savings.
In conclusion, there are many ways to book cheap flights and save money while traveling. By utilizing flight search engines, analyzing pricing trends, using credit card points, and being flexible with your travel plans, you can find great deals and save money on your next trip. And remember, a penny saved is a penny earned – or in this case, a dollar saved is a dollar earned for your future travels! my