8 ways to book the cheapest airline tickets

To any global destination

Many travellers desire to master the skill of booking a cheap flight. Finding low-cost tickets often feels like a game of chance, but with the right tools and strategies, you can secure deals that significantly reduce travel expenses.

Whether planning a spontaneous weekend getaway or a bucket-list international adventure, the following tips will help you book the cheapest airline tickets to any destination worldwide.

1. Use price comparison tools

The first step to finding the cheapest flight is to use flight comparison websites and apps. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak are invaluable resources that allow you to compare fares across multiple airlines. Google Flights lets you track ticket prices for specific routes and provides price trends so you know the best time to book. Skyscanner’s “Explore Everywhere” feature also shows you the cheapest destinations based on your departure city and preferred dates.

2. Be flexible with travel dates

Flexibility is one of the most effective ways to score cheap tickets. Airlines often vary their pricing depending on the day of the week, time of year, and even time of day. Mid-week flights are cheaper than weekend flights, and early-morning or late-night options are often more affordable. Adjusting your travel dates by even a day or two can yield significant savings. Google Flights and Skyscanner allow users to explore a range of dates and find the most affordable options.

3. Book in advance, but not too early

The myth that booking months in advance guarantees the lowest fares is not always valid. According to research, booking tickets 4 to 6 weeks in advance often strikes the best balance between availability and price. It is typically best to book international flights about 2-3 months in advance. Airlines adjust their prices dynamically, and bookings too early or too late may cost more. Avoid booking during peak holiday seasons unless necessary.

4. Use airline miles and credit card points

One of the most effective ways to save money on flights is by using frequent flyer miles or credit card reward points. Many airlines offer loyalty programs allowing you to earn miles based on travel. These miles can be redeemed for free or discounted tickets. Similarly, credit cards offering travel-related rewards often will enable you to redeem flight points. Sign up for airline loyalty programs and use a travel rewards credit card for daily purchases to build up points later for flights.

5. Monitor prices and set alerts

Set up price alerts once you have identified the flights you are interested in. Websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights allow you to track the prices of specific routes and will notify you when the fare drops. This feature is crucial for finding discounts or flash sales. Being patient and waiting for a price drop can make a big difference, especially for longer flights, where even a tiny percentage drop can lead to substantial savings [6].

6. Consider alternative airports

Another strategy is to check flights from alternative airports. Larger cities typically have multiple airports; flying from or to a smaller, less busy airport can save you money. In many cases, booking a flight to a nearby airport and taking a train or bus to your destination can still be cheaper than booking a direct flight to the main airport. If you travel internationally, this strategy may be beneficial as smaller airports tend to have lower operating costs, resulting in lower ticket prices.

7. Avoid extra fees

Airlines often advertise cheap fares, but these prices may not reflect additional fees like baggage charges, seat selection, or meals. To save money, look for airlines with low or no additional fees. Many budget carriers offer lower base fares but compensate for it by charging for extras. Make sure you account for these charges when comparing prices. Opt for carry-on luggage if possible and avoid premium seat selections unless necessary.

8. Book multi-city or connecting flights

If you are willing to take a longer journey, booking a multi-city or connecting flight can be cheaper than booking a direct flight. Connecting flights, especially those with extended layovers, cost less than direct flights. Similarly, booking flights with layovers in hubs or secondary cities could reduce ticket prices. You can even consider booking separate one-way flights with different airlines if it is cheaper than a round-trip ticket.

Hero image: Booking flights with layovers in hubs or secondary cities could reduce ticket prices. Credit: Anna Shvets

Last Updated on 2 days by News Desk 2