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Travel Like a Pro: Insider Secrets to Booking the Cheapest Flights
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but the high cost of flights often puts a damper on our wanderlust. However, with a few insider tips and tricks, you can book the cheapest flights and make your travel dreams a reality. Here’s how you can travel like a pro without breaking the bank.
1. Be Flexible with Your Dates
One of the easiest ways to find cheaper flights is by being flexible with your travel dates. Flight prices vary significantly depending on the day of the week, the time of the year, and even the time of the day. Mid-week flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) are often cheaper than weekend flights. Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to see a calendar view of prices and pick the most affordable dates.
2. Set Fare Alerts
Many travel websites and apps allow you to set fare alerts for specific routes. Websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Google Flights will notify you when prices drop for your desired flight. This way, you can book when the price is right without constantly checking yourself.
3. Use Incognito Mode
Airlines use cookies to track your search history, and prices may increase based on repeated searches for the same route. To avoid this, use incognito mode or clear your browser cookies when searching for flights. This way, you’re more likely to see the lowest prices.
4. Consider Budget Airlines
Budget airlines often offer significantly lower prices than their full-service counterparts. While they may charge extra for things like checked baggage and seat selection, the overall cost can still be much cheaper. Examples of budget airlines include Ryanair, EasyJet, and Southwest Airlines. Just make sure to read the fine print and understand what’s included in your fare.
5. Mix and Match Airlines
Sometimes, booking two one-way tickets with different airlines can be cheaper than booking a round-trip ticket with one airline. This tactic, known as “hacker fares,” can be a great way to save money. Websites like Kayak and Kiwi.com can help you find these combinations.
6. Fly to Alternate Airports
Major cities often have multiple airports, and flying into a smaller, less popular airport can sometimes be cheaper. For example, if you’re flying to New York City, consider flying into Newark or LaGuardia instead of JFK. Similarly, flying into Oakland instead of San Francisco can save you money.
7. Book Early, but Not Too Early
While booking last-minute can sometimes lead to deals, it’s generally better to book flights in advance. The sweet spot for booking domestic flights is typically 1-3 months in advance, while international flights are best booked 2-8 months in advance. However, avoid booking too early, as airlines rarely offer discounts more than eight months in advance.
8. Use Points and Miles
If you’re a frequent traveler, signing up for airline loyalty programs and credit cards that offer travel rewards can save you a lot of money. Accumulating points and miles can lead to free flights, upgrades, and other perks. Make sure to use these rewards wisely and pay attention to blackout dates and expiration policies.