How to Get Cheap Flights: Real Tips to Save Big on Airfare

Scoring cheap flights is all about timing, strategy, and flexibility. Here’s a step-by-step guide, backed by expert sources, to help you consistently find the best airfare deals—plus real keyword suggestions to help your site attract more traffic.

1. Book at the Right Time

• Domestic flights: Book 1–3 months in advance for the best deals, saving up to 25% compared to last-minute bookings.

• International flights: Book 2–6 months ahead, or specifically 18–29 days before departure for up to 17% savings.

• Best day to book: Sundays are statistically the best day to book, with savings of 6% on domestic and 17% on international fares.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• best time to book cheap flights

• when to book flights for cheapest price

2. Compare Across Multiple Sites

Always use flight comparison tools to check prices across airlines and booking platforms. Sites like Momondo, Kayak, or your own BestBudgetFlight.com help you see a range of fares and filter by airline, alliance, baggage, and more. This ensures you’re not overpaying and can spot the best deals quickly.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• compare flight prices across airlines

• cheap flights comparison site

3. Be Flexible With Dates and Airports

• Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays is often cheaper.

• Use fare calendars to spot the lowest prices within your travel window.

• Consider nearby airports for both departures and arrivals, as they can offer significant savings.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• cheapest days to fly from [city]

• cheap flights from [city] to [destination] this month

• alternative airports near [city]

4. Use Budget Airlines Wisely

Budget airlines can offer much lower base fares, especially for short-haul trips. Just be mindful of extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and other amenities4. Always compare the total cost before booking.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• cheap budget airlines in USA

• cheap one-way flights from [city] to [destination]

5. Take Advantage of Points, Rewards, and Credit Cards

Travel rewards credit cards and airline loyalty programs can help you earn points for free or discounted flights. Compare cash fares and points values to maximize your savings.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• best credit cards for flight rewards

• how to use points for cheap flights

6. Set Fare Alerts

Use fare alert tools (like Google Flights or your own site’s alerts) to track price drops and mistake fares5. This way, you’ll be notified when prices fall and can book at the lowest rate.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• flight price alerts for [route]

• cheap round trip flights from [city] to [destination] alerts

7. Use Incognito or Private Browsing

Some booking engines may raise prices based on your search history. Use incognito mode to avoid potential price hikes.

Long-tail keyword ideas:

• does incognito mode help find cheap flights

8. Consider One-Way Tickets and Layovers

Booking two one-way flights or flights with layovers can sometimes be cheaper than round-trip or nonstop options. This strategy gives you more flexibility and potential savings.