- October 18, 2022
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Insider Tips for Scoring the Best Airline Deals
Finding the best deals on airline tickets can feel like hitting the jackpot, especially when prices fluctuate so frequently. But with a little strategy and some insider knowledge, you can save big on your next flight. Here are seven tips to help you score the best airline deals without the stress.
Book at the Right Time
Timing is everything when it comes to booking flights. Studies show that the best time to book domestic flights is usually 1-3 months before departure, while international flights are best booked 5-6 months in advance. Flights tend to be cheaper during the week, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Tip: Avoid booking too early or too late. Set up price alerts on platforms like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track price drops.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
If you’re flexible with your departure and return dates, you can take advantage of lower prices. Flying on weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, is often cheaper than flying on weekends. Additionally, booking flights during off-peak seasons or avoiding major holidays can lead to significant savings.
Tip: Use flexible date search options on travel booking sites to compare prices for a range of dates.
3. Use Airline Reward Programs and Credit Card Points
Frequent flyer programs and travel credit cards are a great way to earn free flights or discounts. Many credit cards offer sign-up bonuses that can be converted into miles or points for airlines. Plus, loyal customers can benefit from perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, or seat upgrades.
Tip: Sign up for frequent flyer programs, even if you don’t fly often. Points can add up quickly, especially when combined with the right credit card.
4. Consider Budget Airlines (But Read the Fine Print!)
Budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, or Ryanair can offer incredibly cheap tickets, but be sure to read the fine print. Often, these airlines charge extra for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and even carry-on luggage, which can quickly add to the cost.
Tip: Compare the total cost, including fees, before booking. Sometimes, a slightly more expensive ticket from a full-service airline might be a better deal overall.
5. Book Connecting Flights Instead of Direct
While direct flights are more convenient, booking connecting flights can sometimes save you a lot of money. This is especially true for international flights, where flying into a major hub and then connecting to your final destination can be significantly cheaper.
Tip: When booking connecting flights, allow enough time between flights to account for any potential delays, especially if you have to go through customs or security again.
6. Check Nearby Airports
If your destination has more than one nearby airport, check flights to all of them. Sometimes flying into a secondary airport can be cheaper than the main one. For example, if you’re heading to New York, you might find better deals flying into Newark rather than JFK or LaGuardia.
Tip: Compare flights to multiple nearby airports and consider the cost of transportation from the airport to your destination when making your decision.
Finding the best airline deals isn’t just about luck. By being strategic, flexible, and using rewards programs, you can save money and make your next trip more affordable. Start planning your flights early, and keep these tips in mind to get the most out of your travel budget.
