How to Book Cheap Flights: Tricks, and Tips

How to Book Cheap Flights: Methods, Tricks, and Tips

Finding cheap flights can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and tools, you can save a significant amount of money on air travel. This comprehensive guide will explore various methods and tricks to help you book cheap flights, as well as provide details about budget airlines and other necessary information.

Methods to Book Cheap Flights

1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

Flight prices can vary significantly depending on the time of year, day of the week, and even the time of day you choose to fly.

Tips

• Use Flexible Date Search Tools: Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak allow you to compare prices across different dates.
• Fly Midweek: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper than weekends.
• Avoid Peak Seasons: Traveling during off-peak times (e.g., shoulder seasons) can result in lower fares.

2. Set Fare Alerts

Fare alerts notify you when prices for a specific route drop, allowing you to book at the lowest price.

Tips

• Sign Up for Alerts: Use fare alert services like Google Flights, Airfarewatchdog, and Skyscanner.
• Monitor Regularly: Keep an eye on alerts and be ready to book quickly when a good deal arises.

3. Book in Advance (but Not Too Far)

Booking too early or too late can result in higher prices. There’s a sweet spot for finding the best deals.

Tips

• Domestic Flights: Aim to book 1-3 months in advance.
• International Flights: Book 2-8 months in advance.
• Last-Minute Deals: Occasionally, last-minute deals can be found, especially if airlines need to fill seats.

4. Use Incognito Mode or Clear Cookies

Airline websites often track your searches and may increase prices if they see repeated searches for the same route.

Tips

• Use Incognito Mode: Open your browser in incognito mode to prevent tracking.
• Clear Cookies: Regularly clear your browser cookies to avoid price hikes.

5. Compare Prices Across Multiple Websites

Different travel websites can have varying prices for the same flight.

Tips

• Use Comparison Tools: Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo aggregate prices from multiple sources.
• Check Airline Websites: Sometimes booking directly through the airline’s website can offer the best deals.

6. Consider Alternative Airports

Flying into or out of smaller or alternative airports can sometimes be cheaper.

Tips

• Search Nearby Airports: Use flight search tools to include nearby airports in your search.
• Factor in Transportation Costs: Ensure that the savings on the flight outweigh any additional transportation costs to and from the airport.

7. Look for Budget Airlines

Budget airlines often offer lower fares compared to full-service airlines, but they may charge extra for services like baggage and meals.

Tips

• Research Budget Airlines: Know the budget airlines that serve your desired route.
• Read the Fine Print: Be aware of extra fees and restrictions before booking.

Budget Airlines to Consider

1. Southwest Airlines (U.S.)

Features

• No Change Fees: Allows changes to flights without a fee.
• Two Free Checked Bags: Includes two free checked bags, which is uncommon for budget airlines.

Advantages

• Low Fares: Competitive pricing and frequent sales.
• Customer-Friendly Policies: No change fees and generous baggage policies.

Disadvantages

• Limited International Routes: Primarily serves domestic routes in the U.S. with some international destinations.

2. Ryanair (Europe)

Features

• Ultra-Low-Cost Fares: Known for extremely low base fares.
• Extensive Network: Covers many destinations across Europe.

Advantages

• Cheap Base Fares: Very low ticket prices.
• Frequent Deals: Regular sales and promotions.

Disadvantages

• Additional Fees: Charges for baggage, seat selection, and other services.
• Strict Policies: Stringent rules and fees for changes and cancellations.

3. AirAsia (Asia)

Features

• Affordable Prices: Competitive pricing for flights within Asia and to Australia.
• Wide Network: Extensive routes across Asia and beyond.

Advantages

• Low Fares: Cost-effective travel options.
• Frequent Promotions: Regularly offers sales and discounts.

Disadvantages

• Extra Costs: Additional fees for baggage, meals, and other services.
• Service Variability: Customer service quality can vary.

Additional Tips for Booking Cheap Flights

1. Join Frequent Flyer Programs

Frequent flyer programs offer rewards and benefits that can lead to free flights or upgrades.

Tips

• Accumulate Miles: Sign up for programs and accumulate miles with every flight.
• Use Miles Wisely: Redeem miles for free or discounted flights, especially for long-haul routes.

2. Use Credit Card Rewards

Travel credit cards often offer points or miles that can be redeemed for flights.

Tips

Choose the Right Card: Select a card with travel rewards that match your travel habits.

Maximize Points: Use the card for everyday purchases to accumulate points faster.

3. Check for Student and Senior Discounts

Some airlines and travel agencies offer discounts for students and seniors.

Tips

• Research Discounts: Check airline websites and travel agencies for available discounts.
• Use Verified Programs: Use programs like StudentUniverse for student discounts.

4. Book One-Way Tickets Separately

Sometimes booking two one-way tickets instead of a round-trip can be cheaper.

Tips

• Compare Prices: Always compare the cost of round-trip vs. one-way tickets.
• Mix Airlines: Consider flying different airlines for each leg of the journey if it offers savings.

5. Look for Error Fares

Error fares are mistakes in pricing that can result in significantly discounted tickets.

Tips

Monitor Deal Websites: Follow websites like Secret Flying or The Flight Deal that post error fares.

Act Quickly: Error fares are often corrected quickly, so book immediately if you find one.

Conclusion

Booking cheap flights requires a combination of flexibility, research, and smart strategies. By being flexible with your travel dates, setting fare alerts, comparing prices, and considering alternative airports, you can find great deals on flights. 

Additionally, utilizing budget airlines and maximizing frequent flyer programs and credit card rewards can further reduce your travel costs. Always be aware of additional fees and policies associated with budget airlines to avoid unexpected costs. With these methods and tips, you’ll be well-equipped to find and book affordable flights for your next adventure.