How to Find Cheap Flights

Flight prices can swing wildly from one day to the next, which makes booking feel like a guessing game. While there’s no secret trick that guarantees the lowest fare, a handful of reliable habits will help you pay less more often. The more flexible you can be, the more you’re likely to save.

Be Flexible Wherever You Can

Flexibility is the single biggest factor in finding a good fare. Even small changes can make a difference.

• Dates: Midweek departures are often cheaper than weekends, and travelling outside school holidays and peak seasons usually costs less.
• Airports: Check alternative airports near your departure city and destination, including smaller regional ones.
• Destinations: If you just want a break, use search tools that let you enter “anywhere” and see the cheapest places to fly.
• Times: Early morning or late-night flights can be cheaper than those at popular times.

Search the Smart Way

1. Start with a flight comparison website to see a wide range of airlines and prices at once.
2. Use calendar or month views to spot the cheapest days around your preferred dates.
3. Compare return fares with two one-way tickets, which may be on different airlines.
4. Once you’ve found a good option, check the airline’s own website, as it may be the same price or cheaper and easier to manage if plans change.
5. Set up price alerts for your route so you’re notified when fares drop.
6. Book when you see a price that fits your budget rather than waiting indefinitely for a perfect deal.

There’s no universal best day to book, but booking very late is often expensive, especially for popular routes and holiday periods. Giving yourself a few weeks or months of lead time generally works in your favour. Prices can also differ depending on the currency or country version of a booking site, so compare a couple of options before paying.

Watch Out for Hidden Costs

A low headline fare isn’t always the cheapest overall. Before booking, add up the full cost of the trip, including:

• Checked luggage and sometimes even large carry-on bags
• Seat selection, especially if you’re travelling with others
• Payment card fees
• Transport to and from airports that are far from the city centre
• Meals and drinks on longer flights

Read the fare rules carefully. The cheapest tickets are often non-refundable and may charge heavily for changes.

Use Loyalty and Rewards Wisely

If you fly regularly, joining an airline loyalty scheme is usually free and can earn points towards future flights or upgrades. Some payment cards also offer travel rewards, but only use them if you clear the balance in full, since interest charges can wipe out any benefit.

Before You Click Book

Double-check names match your passport exactly, confirm dates and times, and review the baggage allowance. Check official government travel advice and entry requirements for your destination, and consider travel insurance once your trip is booked. A careful final review can save you costly change fees later.