How to Find Cheap Flights: Tips from My 11 Years of Traveling

As someone who’s traveled to 75 countries over the past 11 years, I’ve learned that finding cheap flights is one of the most important skills for any traveler. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about making travel more accessible, allowing you to explore more places without breaking the bank. Here’s how I’ve consistently found great deals on flights, and how you can too.

1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

One of the biggest keys to finding cheap flights is being flexible with your travel dates. Airlines often have varying prices depending on the day of the week, the time of year, and even the time of day. I usually start by looking at the whole month to see which dates are the cheapest. If you’re not tied to specific dates, you can save a lot by flying on less popular days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

2. Use Flight Search Engines

There are a ton of flight search engines out there, but a few stand out for finding the best deals. I regularly use Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo. These platforms allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines and even show you if it’s cheaper to fly into a nearby airport. I also love Google Flights’ “Explore” feature, which lets you see the cheapest destinations from your home airport for any given time.

3. Set Fare Alerts

If you have a specific destination in mind but don’t want to book just yet, setting up fare alerts is a great way to monitor prices. I use services like Kayak and Hopper to track flights. They’ll notify you when prices drop, so you can jump on a good deal before it’s gone. It’s a simple way to keep an eye on your dream destinations without having to constantly check yourself.

4. Book at the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to booking flights. While there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, I’ve found that booking 6-8 weeks in advance often yields the best prices. For international flights, booking 3-6 months ahead is usually your best bet. However, if you’re flexible and adventurous, last-minute deals can sometimes offer significant savings too!

5. Consider Budget Airlines

Budget airlines can be a game-changer if you’re looking to save money. Airlines like Ryanair, AirAsia, and Spirit offer no-frills flights at a fraction of the cost of major carriers. Just be sure to read the fine print—these airlines often charge extra for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and even onboard meals. But if you’re willing to pack light and forgo some comforts, the savings can be substantial.

6. Use Points and Miles

If you travel frequently, consider signing up for a travel rewards credit card. Over the years, I’ve accumulated a ton of points and miles by using these cards for everyday purchases. Redeeming these points for flights has saved me thousands of dollars. Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, many airlines and credit cards offer sign-up bonuses that can get you a free flight or two.

7. Mix and Match Airlines

Sometimes, the cheapest flights aren’t round-trip tickets on a single airline. I often find that booking two one-way tickets with different airlines can be cheaper. It’s a bit more work, but using search engines that allow multi-city or open-jaw searches can uncover some hidden gems. Also, don’t be afraid to mix full-service airlines with budget carriers to get the best deal.

8. Travel Off-Peak

Avoiding peak travel times can lead to significant savings. I’ve found that traveling during the shoulder season (just before or after the peak season) often offers cheaper flights, fewer crowds, and better weather than you might expect. It’s one of the easiest ways to save money while still enjoying great travel experiences.

9. Clear Your Cookies

It might sound like a myth, but clearing your cookies or browsing in incognito mode can sometimes help you find cheaper flights. Some sites track your search history and might increase prices if they see you repeatedly searching for the same route. While the savings might not always be huge, it doesn’t hurt to give it a try.

10. Be Spontaneous

Finally, don’t be afraid to be spontaneous! Some of my best trips have been the result of finding an amazing flight deal to a place I hadn’t even considered visiting. If you’re open to new destinations, you’ll find that there are always affordable flights to exciting places around the world.

Finding cheap flights has been a cornerstone of my travel journey, allowing me to explore 75 countries over the past 11 years. With a bit of flexibility, some clever searching, and a willingness to try new things, you too can find great deals and make your travel dreams a reality. Happy travels!