Flying can be the start to an amazing vacation, taking you to some of the most beautiful places in the world, but flights can get pretty expensive, which can prevent you from being able to afford everything you want to do on your vacation. Here are some of my tips to help you find more affordable airfare:
Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use Google Flights, Skyscanner or any other comparison websites to find the cheapest days to fly. Flying on weekdays or during the off-peak season can be helpful in finding affordable flights.
- Sign Up for Fare Alerts: Subscribe to fare alerts from Google Flights to receive notifications when the price is set to drop or go up for specific routes. This will help you to keep track and wait for the best deals, or purchase before it gets more expensive. You can also use Google Flights explore option to see which destinations are cheapest to fly to during the specific time you want to take your vacation.
Clear Browser Cookies: Some websites may track your search history and increase prices for popular routes if they see repeated searches. Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode to avoid potential price hikes.
Consider Nearby Airports: Check for flights from nearby airports as they sometimes have cheaper alternatives, especially for larger cities with multiple airport options nearby. Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly to a nearby city and rent a car to drive to your destination, rather than flying directly.
- Book in Advance: While last-minute deals can be found, generally booking your flight several months in advance can result in lower fares.
Be Open to Layovers: Direct flights are often more convenient, but layovers can sometimes lead to significantly cheaper fares. I frequently end up on flights with three layovers because that’s the only option available and I try to make the most of it.
If you like flying, it’s kind of fun to be able to do so many takeoffs and landings one after the other. When I need to have a full travel day with many different flights I like to explore the airports and visit any cool looking restaurants, or check out the souvenirs for that city! Many airports also have little galleries and small attractions to keep you occupied and exhibits that teach you about that city! Sometimes you may get a layover long enough that you can go out and have a mini vacation in that city until it’s time for your next flight!
- Follow Airlines on Social Media: Airlines occasionally announce flash sales or special promotions on their social media channels. By following them, you can stay updated on the latest deals.
- Consider Budget Airlines: Look into budget carriers that offer no-frills flights at lower prices. Many of these airlines have higher baggage fees, including fees for carry ons, so make sure to do research before booking.
The cheapest flight might not always be convenient, but the savings can sometimes be worth it and getting to your destination is part of the fun!
