How To Find Cheap Flights in 12 Easy Steps (2024)

Looking for cheap flights in 2024? You’re in the right place! With travel costs rising, finding a budget-friendly flight can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don’t worry—I’m here to help. Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway or a long-haul vacation, these 12 easy steps will show you how to score affordable flights without the stress. Let’s dive in!

1. Use Flight Comparison Websites

Start by visiting flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Trip .These sites scan airlines and travel agencies to find you the best deals in real-time. You can also set price alerts for your destination and get notifications when fares drop.

• Pro Tip: Use an incognito or private browsing window to prevent airlines from tracking your search and hiking prices.
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2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

Airlines often change their prices based on demand. Being flexible with your departure and return dates can help you snag a cheaper flight. Try flying mid-week, like on a Tuesday or Wednesday, when fewer people are traveling.

• Pro Tip: Use the “flexible dates” option on search engines to see if shifting your trip by a day or two saves you money.
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3. Book in Advance (But Not Too Early)

Booking flights too early can sometimes be just as expensive as booking them last minute. The sweet spot for most international flights is around 2-3 months before your departure. For domestic flights, aim for 1-2 months in advance.

• Pro Tip: Keep an eye on ticket prices and set alerts for any significant drops.
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4. Sign Up for Airline Newsletters

Airlines often send out flash sales, discount codes, and last-minute deals via email. Signing up for newsletters can give you early access to these sales.

• Pro Tip: Create a separate email address just for travel deals to avoid flooding your primary inbox.
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5. Consider Budget Airlines

Don’t overlook budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, or Spirit. These no-frills airlines offer significantly cheaper fares but may charge extra for things like checked luggage or seat selection.

• Pro Tip: Always read the fine print to avoid hidden fees.
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6. Use Frequent Flyer Programs and Credit Card Points

Frequent flyer miles and travel credit card points can significantly cut down your flight costs. If you’re not part of any rewards programs, now’s the time to join.

• Pro Tip: Some credit cards offer sign-up bonuses that give you enough miles for a free or discounted flight right away.
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7. Search One-Way Tickets Separately

Instead of searching for round-trip flights, try looking at one-way tickets separately. Sometimes, booking two one-way flights on different airlines can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket.

• Pro Tip: Pair a budget airline for one leg of your trip and a traditional airline for the other.
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8. Fly Into Alternate Airports

Major cities often have more than one airport, and flying into a smaller or alternate airport can be cheaper. For example, flying into London Gatwick instead of Heathrow can save you money.

• Pro Tip: Check the cost of transportation from alternate airports into the city before booking.
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9. Clear Your Cookies Before Searching

Travel websites use cookies to track your searches, and sometimes they will increase prices after you’ve looked at a flight a few times. Clear your cookies or use incognito mode to avoid this.

• Pro Tip: Use different devices (like your phone and laptop) to compare prices.
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10. Look for Mistake Fares

Sometimes airlines make pricing errors, resulting in extremely cheap flights. Websites like Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog specialize in finding these mistake fares.

• Pro Tip: If you spot a mistake fare, book it immediately! Airlines often honor these low prices, but they’re usually corrected quickly.
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11. Use Multiple Currencies

Sometimes searching for flights in a different currency can result in cheaper prices. For example, switching your search to a country’s local currency can give you a better deal.

• Pro Tip: Be sure to use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
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12. Consider Long Layovers

Flights with long layovers tend to be cheaper. If you don’t mind spending extra time in a connecting city, you can save a lot of money. Plus, you might even get to explore a new destination during your layover!

• Pro Tip: Some airlines offer free stopovers, giving you a mini-vacation in another city without extra cost.
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Final Thoughts

Finding cheap flights doesn’t have to be hard. By following these 12 easy steps, you can fly affordably in 2024 without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Remember, flexibility is key, and using tools like flight comparison sites, price alerts, and travel rewards can save you hundreds. Happy flying!

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