How to Find the Best Flight Deals

The insider tips from travel experts that will save you real money!

Finding the Right Time to Book — Finding the Right
Time to Book

Flexible travel planning: The key to cheap flights — Flexible travel
planning: The key to
cheap flights

Insider tips and tricks for cheap flights — Insider tips and
tricks for cheap
flights

Useful tools and websites for bargain hunting — Useful tools and
websites for bargain
hunting

What to do if you found a flight bargain? — What to do if you
found a flight
bargain?

Summary for "How to Find the Best Flight Deals"

Be flexible with your travel dates and times.
Use price search engines and alerts.
Consider the booking window: 5-6 months for international flights, 2-3 months for domestic flights.
Tuesday is often the cheapest day for bookings and flights.
Use Wednesday and Saturday as cheap travel days.
Choose alternative airports to reduce costs.
Browse in incognito mode to avoid price increases.
Use frequent flyer programs and loyalty points.
Once you find a bargain - book quickly!
Pay attention to cancellation and rescheduling policies.

Finding the Right Time to Book

Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to the right booking time. Often, the best Deals are gone in a flash. So, be ready to consider unconventional times. Surprisingly cheap tickets are often found in the middle of the night or very early in the morning. Airline algorithms react dynamically and change prices several times a day. So, keep adjusting your search times.

A mega trick: set price alerts! There are many websites and apps that notify you as soon as the price for your desired Route drops. This way, you won't miss any deals. Use different platforms and combine the information you receive. Price alerts can really save lives, especially when you're looking for flights during popular travel times. Otherwise, inform yourself about historical price trends, as they can give you a good indication of when flight prices are typically lowest.

But also be ready to make an unorthodox choice. Maybe your dream Vacation ends in Croatia instead of Greece because the price was unbeatable. Every clear plan should always have a few alternatives. Sometimes a slightly flexible travel plan leads to significant savings. So, expand your horizons and be open to spontaneous changes. Make a List of various potential destinations and jump on the option that offers the best deal.

When is the best time to book flights?

Dive deep into the world of airfare and leverage the benefits of so-called booking windows. These time spans, when flight tickets are typically cheapest, vary depending on the destination and season. Often, international flights are cheapest about five to six months before the departure date, while domestic flights reach their price minimum about two to three months before the trip. Early risers are rewarded, but last-minute hunters also have a chance, especially with charter flights or when airlines need to fill remaining seats.

However, every rule comes with exceptions, and this is where your detective skills come into play. Pay attention to special promotional days and holidays that airlines use as an occasion for special offers. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and even "Travel Tuesday" in December are notorious for their massive flight discounts. Also, keep an eye out for seasonal changes, as these are often associated with promotions. Did you know that even national holidays in the airlines' home countries can impact pricing? A well-planned search calendar helps you snag these deals.

Finally, the day of the week you book plays a crucial role. Studies have shown that Tuesday is often the cheapest day for flight bookings, while weekend bookings tend to be more expensive. The time of booking on a given day can also be decisive. Early morning or late evening, when traffic on booking sites is lower, you are more likely to sniff out a bargain. Stay chameleon-like flexible and continuously adjust your strategies to the changing market conditions.

Which days are the cheapest to fly?

Be aware that not all flight days are the same. Statistics show that flights departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday are often cheaper. These days are less in demand because many business travelers schedule their trips for Monday or Thursday, affecting the prices. Traveling on a Wednesday can therefore provide a golden opportunity to save money.

A lesser-known fact is that weekends can actually be more expensive. This is because most people plan their trips to sacrifice as few Vacation days as possible. However, if you are willing to fly on a Saturday, when many people already want to have reached their destination, you can snag amazing deals.

The early bird not only catches the worm; it also saves money on flights. Early morning flights are often cheaper. Why? Because no one likes to get up at 5 AM to rush to the airport. Yet this inconvenience can help you avoid high flight costs. Even if it means setting an alarm for an ungodly hour – the price advantage can be worth it.

Flights on Tuesday or Wednesday are often cheaper.
Weekend flights can be more expensive.
Early morning flights are usually less expensive.

Useful tools and websites for bargain hunting

For finding the best flight deals, numerous useful tools and websites are available to you. A particularly valuable resource is Google Flights. It not only offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive search functions but also shows price trends and alternative departure and arrival airports. Meta-search engines like Kayak and Skyscanner are also highly recommended. These platforms search hundreds of airlines and travel agencies simultaneously to present you with the cheapest offers.

Another must-have tool is your browser's incognito mode. Airlines use cookies to track your search behavior and may increase prices if they notice you repeatedly searching for the same flights. By browsing in incognito mode, you prevent your search history from being saved and ensure you always see the actual prices. Additionally, some browser extensions, such as Honey, offer automated price comparisons and discount codes that can help you save even more during booking.

Don't forget the Hopper app, which is particularly known for its precise price predictions. With a sophisticated algorithm, Hopper tells you when the best time to book is and sends you notifications when prices change. Another powerful tool is Secret Flying, which specifically detects error fares and exceptionally cheap offers and informs you in real time. These tools can give you a decisive advantage in saving your travel budget while still snagging the best deal.

Comparison portals: Your best friends when searching for flights

Comparison portals can work wonders when it comes to determining flight prices. They not only allow you to quickly overview the offerings of various airlines but often provide additional filter options tailored to specific needs. Are you looking for direct flights, flights with specific airlines, or do you simply want to avoid an unknown layover? Comparison portals offer you the necessary flexibility and transparency to filter out exactly the right offer. Additionally, some of these portals provide customer reviews and testimonials that can help you make a more informed choice.

Another major advantage of comparison portals is their ability to uncover hidden fees. Sometimes flights appear super cheap at first glance, but upon closer inspection, various additional costs like baggage fees and seat reservations add up to a considerable amount. Comparison portals often List detailed price breakdowns, so no unpleasant surprises await you. You can also track the price development over time, providing you with further decision-making assistance. However, note that not all fees are always visible at first glance. Therefore, it pays to look closely.

Moreover, some of these portals offer special features to identify particularly cheap flights. For example, some platforms have price forecasts and flexible date searches that show you if there are cheaper alternatives available within a certain period. These insights are particularly valuable if you have some flexibility with your travel dates. Additionally, many comparison portals offer a price guarantee or refund options in case the price drops after your booking. By using such platforms, you not only maximize your chances of getting the best deal but also protect yourself against potential price fluctuations.

Set price alerts: How to never miss a deal

Price alerts help you stay updated without constantly searching yourself. Register on various flight booking sites and use their features to monitor specific routes and travel dates. Most platforms offer personalized alerts based on your preferences. This way, you are immediately notified when a flight price changes or a particularly attractive offer appears.

Integrate different tools and apps to maximize your chances. Websites like Skyscanner and Kayak offer integrated price alert features. Additionally, you can use specialized apps like FareCompare or Airfarewatchdog, which focus on identifying and reporting price fluctuations. These services often send notifications via email or push notifications directly to your smartphone, so you don't miss any opportunity, no matter where you are.

Also, remember to activate various notification options. Some services offer the ability to notify you via SMS or through messaging services like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. This direct communication can be especially useful when you need to respond quickly to a price change. A specialized newsletter can also help to keep you informed about interesting offers and exclusive discounts that might otherwise be easily overlooked.

Register on flight booking sites and use their price alerts.
Integrate tools and apps like Skyscanner, Kayak, FareCompare, and Airfarewatchdog.
Enable various notification options like email, push notifications, SMS, and messaging services.
Use specialized newsletters for exclusive offers and discounts.
Receive real-time notifications to quickly respond to price changes.

Flexible travel planning: The key to cheap flights

How you can save with flexible travel dates

By using flexible travel dates, you often save not only money but also nerves. For example, if you can schedule your travel dates in the middle of the week or outside of holiday periods, you will be amazed at how much savings are possible. Many travelers are bound to school holidays and public holidays, which automatically makes these periods more expensive. If you can fly outside of these peak times, a window to cheaper fares opens.

Another way to be flexible is to postpone your Trip by a few days or even weeks. By not sticking to a fixed travel period, you can often travel at particularly favorable conditions during so-called off-seasons. Many destinations thrive in the off-season as tourist flows decrease and prices for accommodations and activities also drop. This way, you not only get a cheaper flight but also save on your entire vacation.

A subtle but effective strategy is to search for flights around holidays and special events. For example, flights immediately before or after major events like sports events, music festivals, or political summits are often more expensive. By allowing a few days' distance, you can avoid more expensive tickets and overcrowded flights. Just like choosing a less frequented day, this way you can travel significantly cheaper through your flexibility while making the Trip more pleasant.

Alternative airports and routes: You should consider these options

A frequently overlooked trick to reduce flight costs is choosing alternative airports and routes. Many large cities have multiple airports, and sometimes a slightly more distant airport can offer significantly cheaper flight options. For example, Frankfurt-Hahn is a more affordable alternative to Frankfurt Main, or London Stansted is often cheaper than Heathrow. The additional transfer costs to these airports are often minimal compared to the savings on flight prices.

Alternative routes can also be surprisingly cost-effective. Choose a flight with a connection in a less frequented city instead of the usual major hubs. A Route from Berlin to New York can be much cheaper via Reykjavík, Copenhagen, or Lisbon than a direct flight. Some of these routes also offer the opportunity to explore additional destinations more economically, which can add extra excitement to your travel adventure.

Sometimes it's also worth considering neighboring countries or cities. If your planned Trip to Paris is too expensive, a flight to Brussels or Amsterdam followed by a train ride might be an economical alternative. Often, bus and train connections in Europe and other parts of the world offer cost-effective and convenient transfers between cities. This flexibility allows you to secure attractive flight Deals while enriching the charm of traveling with an intermodal transport experience.

Use alternative airports to reduce costs, e.g., Frankfurt-Hahn instead of Frankfurt Main
Choose alternative flight routes through less frequented cities, e.g., Reykjavík instead of a direct flight
Consider neighboring countries or cities for cheaper travel options, e.g., fly to Brussels and take a train to Paris

Insider tips and tricks for cheap flights

Common mistakes in flight searches and how to avoid them

A common misconception in flight search is to rely solely on major well-known airlines and ignore so-called low-cost carriers. Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, or Wizz Air often offer significantly cheaper tickets. Even though these airlines offer less comfort and fewer extras, the savings often make up for it. Another mistake is thinking about additional costs like baggage fees and seat reservations too late. These can significantly increase the originally low flight price. Always check the airline’s baggage policies and additional costs before booking to avoid unpleasant surprises.

A widespread misunderstanding is that direct flights are always more expensive than multi-stop flights. In reality, layovers can substantially increase overall travel costs, especially when additional airport fees and longer travel times are considered. Another common mistake is assuming that only flights on major booking sites offer the best prices. Often, you can find cheaper Deals directly on the airlines’ websites or through specialized travel agencies. It's always worth comparing different sources and taking a detour to uncover hidden deals.

Technological errors can also affect the flight search. Many users rely too much on standard search filters and thereby overlook potentially cheaper options. Avoid relying on only one platform; use various comparison portals simultaneously and experiment with different filter settings. Additionally, regularly clearing your browser cache or searching in incognito mode can help prevent cookies from artificially driving up prices. Stay flexible and experiment with different search strategies to truly find the best price.

Bonus programs and memberships: How you can save extra

Many airlines and online travel agencies offer memberships or elite status programs that grant you significant benefits. Membership programs like Expedia Rewards or Booking.com Genius not only provide discounts on flights but also on accommodations and car rentals. These programs reward you for your loyalty and accumulated bookings with additional advantages such as price reductions, free upgrades, or even exclusive offers that are not accessible to others. Therefore, it pays to stay loyal and fully utilize the benefits of these programs.

Additionally, there are numerous credit cards specifically tailored to travelers that offer attractive bonuses. With credit card programs like the American Express Platinum or the Miles & More credit card, you not only collect miles or points with each flight booking but also benefit from travel insurance, lounge access, priority boarding, and other premium services. Such credit cards often also offer welcome bonuses, which can provide the necessary points for a free flight or an upgrade after Just a few purchases. These options should not be overlooked in a cost-conscious traveler's X-to-Y strategy.

Additionally, there are exclusive travel clubs like Secret Escapes or Travelzoo that offer unique access benefits for a small membership fee. These clubs often have special agreements with airlines and Hotels and can therefore offer their members exclusive discounts and special promotions. By accessing these selected offers, the savvy traveler can not only save a euro or two but also secure a more luxurious yet cost-effective trip. Here, the contribution to the community pays off two or three times over.

Use of membership programs like Expedia Rewards or Booking.com Genius for discounts and exclusive offers.
Credit card programs like American Express Platinum or Miles & More for miles, travel insurance, and premium services.
Exclusive travel clubs like Secret Escapes or Travelzoo for access to special discounts and luxurious trips.

What to do if you found a flight bargain?

Act fast: Why you shouldn't hesitate

If you discover a particularly tempting offer, you should not hesitate. Flight deals are often available for a limited time and can be quickly snapped up. Slow action could mean that someone else books the ticket before you. Especially with extremely low prices, known as error fares, availability is usually very limited. Airlines often correct these pricing errors quickly, so the chances of securing the cheap fare diminish with each passing minute.

In addition, many Deals are exclusively available online, and the digital world is known for its fast-paced dynamics. Websites can become overloaded within seconds due to high demand, and the best offers often disappear within minutes. To prevent this dilemma, it is advisable to activate automatic notifications and always have payment details ready. This way, you can act swiftly when the next great offer appears.

Furthermore, deliberating and weighing your decision on whether to take advantage of the offer can cost you valuable time. Hesitating too long can result in you ultimately having to pay more. So don't waste time overthinking. If the price is right and the flight meets your expectations, act immediately. This approach can save you both money and the stress and time-consuming searches in the future.

What to consider when booking: The small details that make the difference

Pay special attention to the terms and cancellation policies when booking. Some offers look fantastic at first glance but include strict regulations that can become expensive in case of cancellation or rebooking. Make sure you understand the flexibility of the booking before clicking the "Book" button. Read the fine print carefully and inform yourself about possible fees for changes or cancellations to avoid later surprises.

Additionally, it is advisable to also examine the seat options. Some airlines offer cheaper tickets but then charge exorbitant amounts for seat selection. Inform yourself in advance about the costs and determine if there is a way to bypass or reduce the seat selection costs. In some cases, it can be worthwhile to book the seat directly with the airline or wait for last-minute offers, which are often cheaper.

Another detail that is often overlooked is the included services like meals, drinks, or entertainment. Low-priced tickets often do not include meals or provide very limited in-flight entertainment. Consider in advance whether you need additional services for longer flights and whether it is better to book them in advance or pay for them individually during the flight. Such small details can significantly influence the overall travel costs and the comfort of your flight.

Check conditions and cancellation policies
Watch out for seat costs
Learn about included services

Personal travel report on "How to Find the Best Flight Deals"

The flight to Rome was a real adventure. At 79 years old, traveling is still exciting. The best flight deals are not found by chance. It takes some patience and a touch of planning. Early bookers can often benefit. Searching for deals a few months in advance helps immensely.
Flexibility with travel dates pays off. Flying on weekdays is cheaper than on weekends. Flight times also play a role. Early in the morning or late at night, tickets are often cheaper. Skyscanner and Google Flights are great tools. Both offer price alerts that can be set up. This way, you get notified when the price drops.
It's also worth checking different airports. Sometimes flying from a nearby, smaller airport is cheaper. Being a member of frequent flyer programs can bring advantages. Airline newsletters also come into play. There are regular exclusive offers.
I thoroughly enjoyed the trip to Rome. The flight booking was a small victory. The Eternal City was enchanting. Rome offers a lot gastronomically. Pizza and gelato taste even better in the Italian atmosphere. The Colosseum and the Vatican are impressive. A trip I can only recommend to everyone.
It remains to keep your eyes open. There are deals; you just need to know where to look. Traveling remains the best way to spend time.

Joachim, 79 years young

Travel Blogger for awaymag.com