Finding the best deals on cheap flights can be a challenge, but with the right tips and strategies, you can save money on airline tickets and make your travel experience more budget-friendly. From looking for better fares online to being savvy with departure and return dates, we’re here to rundown the methods that can help you score the lowest fares.
Tips to help you score the best deals on cheap flights
1. Use flight comparison sites and apps
Flight comparison sites and apps are the best way to compare the prices of flights on different airlines — so you can get the best deal possible. These websites and apps allow you to easily search for and compare the fares available for your chosen destinations, giving you an overview of the deals that are available.
2. Sign up for email alerts
Take advantage of airline email alerts as these are a great way to get notified when there’s any changes to the price of flights. Airline companies will often offer deals for members of their mailing list, so make sure you’re signed up to receive notifications.
3. Take advantage of last-minute deals
If you’re open to waiting until the last minute, then you can often snag yourself a great deal on cheap flights. Airlines tend to offer discounted fares on unsold seats close to the departure date. If you don’t mind the element of risk and can bear a few days waiting in airport arrivals, then last-minute deals can save you a considerable amount of money.
4. Look for ‘hidden city’ fares
As no one wants to leave unsold flight tickets on their books, airlines will often offer lower rates for ‘hidden city’ flights. This is where the destination of your flight is actually different to the one you booked it for — with the original route just allowing you to get there faster. Check out hidden city fares to make sure you’re getting the best deals on cheap flights.
5. Change dates and times to save money
When it comes to small details like departure and return dates and times, always double check that you’re getting the best deal available. Airlines will often charge varied amounts for different flight times, with morning or overnight flights often providing the greatest savings. You should also consider dropping the return date from your search criteria — it’s cheaper to buy return and single tickets separately, to ensure you get the best deal.
6. Fly during ‘shoulder season’
If you want to maximise your budget, then consider travelling during ‘shoulder season’ — the months leading up to peak season. Travel during this period can often provide much cheaper fares, and if you’re flexible with your dates you could potentially save even more.
7. Take advantage of promotional codes
Promotional codes are a discounted way to get cheap flights. Check deals sites or follow social media accounts to find the latest offers and compare codes to save money on your next flight.
8. Be flexible
Flexibility is the name of the game when it comes to the best deals on cheap flights. Keep an eye out for flight deals posted by airlines on social media and act fast to get the best deal available.
9. Monitor the fluctuating prices
Flights have a tendency to fluctuate in price and it pays to monitor this by setting a price alert. That way you get an email notification whenever the price of your chosen flight increases or decreases— allowing you to be savvy and snap up a great deal.
10. Use awards points
If you’re a frequent traveller, then you should take advantage of frequent flyer points by signing up loyalty programs. These award points can accumulate over time and will give you the opportunity to purchase airline tickets at a discounted rate — giving you the best deals on cheap flights.
Conclusion
By following the tips and strategies above, you can save countless amounts of money when you book your next flight. From utilising flight comparison sites to taking advantage of promotional codes and monitoring the fluctuating prices, you have the opportunity to save and make your travel experience more affordable. Enjoy your next adventure, without breaking the bank!
