Scoring cheaper flights has always been a bit of an art mixed with a dash of science, and I’ve learned a few strategies that have definitely helped me save significantly over the years.
First, flexibility is key. If your schedule allows it, being flexible with your travel dates can lead to substantial savings. Flying on weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tends to be cheaper than on weekends. Additionally, flying during off-peak seasons can also save you money. Consider destinations with several nearby airports, as this can give you more options when looking for the best deals. Websites like Google Flights and Skyscanner have built-in tools that show fare trends across an entire month, helping you pinpoint the least expensive travel dates.
In terms of apps and websites, I’ve found that Hopper and Kayak are great for tracking flight prices. Hopper uses data analysis to predict when ticket prices will rise or fall, and they'll send you notifications on when to book. Kayak’s "Explore" feature allows you to input your budget and see where you can fly within that range, which is pretty handy if you’re flexible about where to go.
Another hack is to set up fare alerts with several different services. Google Flights, Airfarewatchdog, and Scott’s Cheap Flights are good ones to start with. They’ll send notifications when prices drop or when there are errors or flash sales. I’ve occasionally scored great deals this way, including a round-trip to Japan for under $400.
Joining loyalty programs and email lists of airlines is another strategy. They sometimes offer exclusive discounts and early notifications of sales to their members. I particularly like using credit cards that offer travel rewards or points that can be redeemed for flights, as this has helped me offset costs on several occasions.
One thing to keep in mind is booking with layovers instead of direct flights, as these can often be cheaper. Just ensure the layover isn't too short or too long, a lesson I learned the hard way when I nearly missed a connecting flight due to delays.
For those hard-to-find deals, don’t overlook budget airlines. They can be significantly cheaper than traditional carriers, although they might charge for extras like baggage and meals. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with their policies to avoid surprise fees at the airport.
Finally, timing your purchase can make a difference. There’s some debate, but generally, booking three to four months in advance for international travel and about six weeks in advance for domestic trips can yield the best prices. A study by the Airlines Reporting Corporation found that the sweet spot for buying cheap domestic tickets was around 70 days before departure.
For further reading, you might want to check out "The Points Guy" blog, which regularly updates strategies for optimizing travel savings and rewards.
What’s been your experience with flexible travel dates or multi-airport destinations? I’m curious to hear if you’ve found this strategy as useful as I have.