This is the second part of our travel budget tips. Please don’t forget to check out the other parts of this series (all links open in a new tab):
1. Planning a Trip on a Budget
2. [This Article: Flights on a Budget]
3. Accommodations on a Budget (not yet published)
4. Activities on a Budget (not yet published)
Booking the cheapest flight possible often requires a combination of flexibility, research, and using the right tools.
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Here are some effective strategies to help you find great deals:
1. Compare Flight Prices Across Multiple Platforms
Before you book a flight, it’s essential to check prices on several platforms. So many travelers don’t do this and miss out on a lot of money!
We suggest several platforms. One is Google Flights, the others are Skyscanner, Kiwi, and some others… With these, you easily get an overview of pricing across different airlines.
Crucial: Always use these websites in incognito mode/private window (more about this later)
To me, Google Flights has the most user-friendly interface (I wish there was an app, btw…. so please, Google, publish an app for this helpful tool. You will see a chart/calendar with prices across different dates, which makes it easier to compare fares at a glance.
While I prefer Google flights all the time, I think Skyscanner and Kiwi are also decent options for finding cheap flights. Just keep in mind to always buy directly from the airline’s official website for better safety, especially if you need to cancel or request a refund.
Quick Summary:
- Use Google Flights for the best pricing overview
- Cross-check with Skyscanner and Kiwi for maybe better deals.
- Book directly with airlines for safety in terms of refund etc.
2. Use Free Stopovers for Extra Savings
Another good way to save money and see more places is by taking advantage of free stopovers.
Many airlines allow you to add a stopover in their hub city at no extra cost, which means you can visit an additional city without paying for a separate flight. We used this quite often in the past 20 years and I cannot count how much we loved this option. It’s so awesome that you can visit another destination for ‘free’.
For example, once I flew from NYC to LA, I added a free stopover in Chicago. That way I was able to visit the city for no additional charge… at least not for the flight 🙂
Quick Summary:
- Look for airlines offering free stopovers.
- Use stopovers to explore an extra city on the way to your main destination.
3. Study Fare Data for the Best Times to Book
Booking at the right time can significantly impact the price. Typically, domestic flights are cheapest when booked 1 to 4 months in advance, while international flights tend to be more affordable when booked 6 to 10 months in advance.
Use fare calendars, which show historical pricing data, to identify the best times to buy flights. These tools will highlight the cheapest days for your specific route.
Quick Summary:
- Domestic flights: Book 1-4 months in advance.
- International flights: Book 6-10 months ahead.
- Use fare calendars to identify the best days to fly.
4. Sign Up for Fare Alerts with Scott’s Cheap Flights
One of the easiest ways to stay on top of the best flight deals is by signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights. This website tracks airfare prices and sends alerts when it detects discounts or deals on flights to your chosen destination. It’s especially useful for last-minute deals that may not show up on typical search engines.
Quick Summary:
- Sign up for fare alerts with Scott’s Cheap Flights.
- Get notifications for limited-time deals.
5. Switch Up Your Airports
When searching for flights, consider nearby airports as alternatives. For instance, flying to Long Beach instead of Los Angeles or Newark instead of JFK could result in a cheaper fare. Flexibility with airports can often lead to savings.
Quick Summary:
- Explore alternative airports in your destination city.
- Check if flying to a nearby airport offers a cheaper fare.
6. Clear Your Cookies or Use Incognito Mode
Airlines and booking sites may track your searches and increase prices based on your search history. To avoid this, always clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode. This ensures you are seeing the most up-to-date prices without any markup.
Quick Summary:
- Use incognito mode or clear your browser cookies to avoid price hikes.
7. Book Your Flight With a Travel Rewards Credit Card
If you have a travel rewards credit card, consider booking flights with it to earn points on your purchase. Many airline-branded cards offer perks like free checked luggage, priority boarding, or bonus miles. This can be a great way to maximize your rewards and enjoy extra benefits.
Quick Summary:
- Use a travel rewards credit card to earn points on flights.
- Look for airline-branded cards that offer additional travel perks.
8. Look for Mistake Fares on Secretflying.com
Mistake fares happen when airlines accidentally price flights too low, and they can offer substantial savings. To find these deals, visit websites like Secretflying.com, which aggregate mistake fares from various airlines. However, keep in mind that these deals can disappear quickly, so when you find one, act fast!
Quick Summary:
- Check Secretflying.com for mistake fares.
- Act quickly when you find a deal, as they often disappear fast.
9. Use Work Travel Programs for Family Discounts
If your job involves frequent travel, ask your employer about programs that allow you to bring family members along on work trips. Some companies offer discounts or even cover travel expenses for family members if the employee is traveling for work.
Quick Summary:
- Ask your employer about family travel discounts or programs when traveling for work.
10. Pack Light and Know Your Baggage Policy
One of the easiest ways to save money on your flight is by packing light and avoiding checked luggage. Many airlines charge extra fees for checked baggage, so if you can fit everything into a carry-on, you can avoid these fees and save time at the airport.
Quick Summary:
- Pack light and aim for carry-on only.
- Always check the baggage policy to avoid extra fees.
11. Pay for Extras Before the Airport
If you know you’ll need to check a bag, select a seat, or purchase other extras, do so before you arrive at the airport. Many airlines charge higher fees for these services at the airport, so booking them in advance will save you money and time.
Quick Summary:
- Pay for extras like seat assignments and baggage fees before arriving at the airport.
- Avoid last-minute fees by planning ahead.
12. Take Advantage of Airline Loyalty Programs
If you frequently fly with a particular airline, joining its loyalty program can be a great way to save money over time. These programs often provide access to discounts, bonus miles, and even free upgrades.
It’s worth signing up even for occasional flyers as the points can quickly add up and save you on future travel.
Quick Summary:
- Join airline loyalty programs for access to discounts, bonus miles, and free upgrades.
- Points accumulate quickly, even for occasional flyers.
13. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can make a huge difference in the cost of your flight. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than those on weekends, and flying during off-peak seasons will almost always result in lower fares.
Check the price differences for different dates before committing to one.
Quick Summary:
- Fly mid-week or during off-peak seasons for cheaper flights.
- Compare different dates to find the best prices.
14. Use Alternative Routes
Sometimes taking a less direct route can save money. For instance, flying to a nearby city and then taking a train or bus to your final destination could be cheaper than flying directly. It’s worth considering if you have the time and flexibility.
Quick Summary:
- Look into alternative routes or indirect flights that may be cheaper.
- Consider combining flights with trains or buses for extra savings.
15. Check for Airline Promotions and Discounts
Airlines often run promotions, special sales, and discount codes, especially during certain times of the year or holidays. It’s important to keep an eye out for these deals by subscribing to airline newsletters or following them on social media. Signing up for newsletters can give you early access to discounts.
Quick Summary:
- Stay subscribed to airline newsletters and social media for exclusive deals.
- Look for sales, discount codes, and special promotions throughout the year.
By following these tips, we can find and book the most affordable flights while ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Happy flying!