Looking for the best deals on domestic flights can sometimes feel like a full-time job. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! There are plenty of ways to score great deals on flights without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous getaway or your annual family trip, here are 25 tips to help you snag those budget-friendly fares. Let’s get saving!
Use Flight Search Engines
Start with the basics: flight search engines. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines and find the cheapest options. Just set your filters and let these sites do the work!
Set Fare Alerts
Don’t have time to search daily? No problem! Set fare alerts through apps or websites like Hopper or Airfarewatchdog.
They’ll notify you when prices drop for your selected routes.
Book in Advance
It’s no secret that booking ahead saves money. Aim to book domestic flights at least 1-3 months in advance to get the best rates.
Last-minute bookings can spike prices, so planning early is key.
Be Flexible with Dates
If you have some wiggle room with your travel dates, you can score serious deals. Midweek flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are typically cheaper than weekend ones.
Consider Budget Airlines
Sure, you might not get luxury treatment, but budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier often have unbeatable prices. If you’re okay with fewer frills, these airlines can help you save big.
Check Airline Websites Directly
Sometimes flight search engines miss deals that are only available on the airline’s own website. Make sure to check Delta, American Airlines, or United’s official sites for exclusive offers.
Use Incognito Mode
Airline websites can track your searches and hike prices if they see repeated interest in a particular flight. Use incognito mode when searching to avoid price increases.
Fly During Off-Peak Seasons
Traveling during popular times like summer and the holidays can get expensive. If possible, plan your trips during the shoulder season – just after peak travel times, like late August or early November, when demand (and prices) drop.
Consider Alternate Airports
Major hubs like JFK or LAX tend to have higher prices. Look into flying into alternate airports – smaller airports nearby might offer cheaper fares, and sometimes it’s worth the extra drive.
Sign Up for Airline Newsletters
Sign up for newsletters from your favorite airlines. They often send out exclusive deals or discount codes to subscribers that aren’t available elsewhere.
Use Miles or Points
If you’ve been racking up points through credit card rewards or frequent flyer programs, now’s the time to cash them in. You can often book entire flights with points or use them to offset the cost.
Look for Mistake Fares
Sometimes airlines accidentally list flights at super low prices due to technical glitches. Websites like Secret Flying or Scott’s Cheap Flights track these mistake fares and notify you before they’re corrected.
Book One-Way Tickets
Instead of booking round-trip flights, check if booking two separate one-way tickets could save you money. Sometimes, mixing and matching airlines results in a cheaper total fare.
Check for Student Discounts
If you’re a student (or have one traveling with you), use sites like StudentUniverse or STA Travel for discounted flights. Some airlines also offer exclusive student rates.
Travel with Only a Carry-On
Many budget airlines charge for checked baggage. Avoid these extra fees by traveling light and sticking to carry-on luggage.
You’d be surprised how much you can fit into one bag!
Use a VPN
Flight prices can vary depending on your location. Sometimes, using a VPN to search from a different region can unlock lower fares.
It’s a bit of a hack, but it’s worth trying!
Fly Early in the Morning or Late at Night
Flights at odd hours, like early morning or late night, tend to be cheaper. If you don’t mind some red eyes, you can often find some real bargains.
Look for Package Deals
Sometimes, bundling your flight with a hotel or car rental can lead to significant savings. Websites like Expedia or Priceline often offer packages that come out cheaper than booking separately.
Check Social Media for Flash Sales
Follow airlines on social media platforms like Twitter or Facebook, where they often announce limited-time flash sales. Act fast when you see these deals!
Try the 24-Hour Rule
Book a flight, then check again within 24 hours to see if the price dropped. Many airlines have a 24-hour cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel your original booking and rebook at a lower rate.
Join Frequent Flyer Programs
Even if you don’t fly often, it’s worth joining frequent flyer programs. Over time, you can accumulate miles that can be redeemed for free flights or other travel perks.
Use Flexible Payment Options
Some airlines or third-party sites offer flexible payment options like buy now and pay later plans. This can spread out the cost of your flight, making it easier to manage.
Compare Airlines’ Cancellation Policies
Not all airlines have the same cancellation or change policies. When booking, check if an airline offers free changes or cancellations, which can save you money if plans shift.
Book Direct Through the Airline for Last-Minute Deals
When booking last-minute, it’s sometimes cheaper to go directly through the airline. They might have unsold seats they need to fill, leading to last-minute discount fares.
Use Cashback Sites
Before booking your flight, visit cashback websites like Rakuten or TopCashback. By booking through these portals, you can earn a percentage back on your purchase, saving you even more.
Win The Game of Saving
Finding the best deals on domestic flights can sometimes feel like a bit of a game. But with these 25 tips, you’ll be well on your way to scoring the cheapest fares and enjoying smooth travels. Happy flying!