How to get the cheapest flights today

Traveling by air has never been easier, but finding a cheap flight? That’s still a challenge. With airlines constantly adjusting their prices based on demand, season, and even the day of the week, the price of a plane ticket can change dramatically from one moment to the next. If you’re looking to score the cheapest flight possible today, here are some tips that will help you save big on your next trip.

1. Be Flexible with Dates and Times

One of the most effective ways to find cheap flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Flight prices fluctuate based on the day of the week, time of the year, and even the time of day. Typically, flights are cheaper on weekdays, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and more expensive on weekends. You can also score better deals by flying early in the morning or late at night, as these flights tend to be less in demand.

2. Use Flight Search Engines

Leverage flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to compare prices across multiple airlines. These platforms aggregate flight information from numerous carriers, making it easier for you to see which offers the best deal. Some even have price alert features, notifying you when a fare drops, ensuring you don’t miss out on a great deal. Try searching in incognito mode or clearing your cookies to avoid any potential price increases from repeated searches.

3. Book in Advance… But Not Too Far

While booking in advance can help you save money, booking too far in advance can sometimes be more expensive. The sweet spot for booking flights is generally around 6-8 weeks before your departure date for domestic flights and 3-6 months for international ones. Last-minute deals can occasionally be found, but this is usually a gamble.

4. Set Fare Alerts

If you have time before your trip, set fare alerts. Sites like Hopper and Skyscanner allow you to monitor flight prices over time. They will notify you when a flight you’re interested in drops in price, giving you the chance to book at its lowest point. This can save you hundreds of dollars, especially for international travel.

5. Consider Alternate Airports

Sometimes flying into or out of a nearby airport can lead to substantial savings. Major cities often have multiple airports, and the smaller or less popular ones sometimes offer cheaper flights. For example, if you're flying to New York, check flights into Newark or LaGuardia instead of JFK. Similarly, for London, try Gatwick or Stansted in addition to Heathrow.

6. Use Frequent Flyer Miles or Credit Card Points

If you travel often, consider signing up for a frequent flyer program or using a credit card that offers travel rewards. Accumulated points can often be redeemed for flights, or at least partially offset their cost. Even if you don’t have enough points for a free flight, using points or miles can still help lower your overall expenses.

7. Look for Airline Deals and Error Fares

Airlines often run promotions or special deals that are available for a limited time. Following airlines on social media or subscribing to their newsletters can give you access to these deals before they’re gone. Additionally, error fares—unintended, extremely low fares—occasionally pop up due to technical glitches or human error. Websites like Secret Flying or Scott’s Cheap Flights track these rare but valuable opportunities.

8. Consider Budget Airlines

Budget airlines like Spirit, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer no-frills flights at significantly reduced prices. While these airlines may charge for extras like checked bags, meals, or even seat selection, they can be a great option if you’re willing to forego some of the usual perks of flying. Always read the fine print to ensure that extra fees don’t add up, negating the initial savings.

9. Travel Light

Many airlines, especially budget carriers, charge extra for checked baggage. If you can pack light and only bring a carry-on, you can save on these fees and lower your overall flight cost. Traveling with less luggage can also make it easier to take advantage of the cheapest flights, especially when you need to jump on an opportunity quickly.

10. Check Social Media and Deal Websites

Social media platforms, travel blogs, and deal websites can often have the scoop on flight deals before they’re widely known. Follow accounts like @TheFlightDeal, @SecretFlying, or sign up for newsletters that specialize in finding cheap flights. These sources often feature flash sales or exclusive discounts that you wouldn’t find through regular search engines.

Finding the cheapest flights today requires flexibility, persistence, and a bit of strategy. By comparing prices, using flight search engines, considering alternate airports, and keeping an eye out for deals, you can save big on your next trip. Remember to plan ahead, stay flexible with your travel dates and times, and take advantage of any frequent flyer points or credit card rewards you may have. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to scoring the cheapest flight possible.

Safe travels!