How to Find Cheap Flights
Master these expert strategies to save hundreds on your next flight.
6 Proven Strategies
Be Flexible with Dates
Flying midweek is typically 20-30% cheaper. Use flexible date search to find the cheapest days.
Consider Nearby Airports
Check secondary airports. London Stansted vs Heathrow can save you hundreds.
Book at the Right Time
6-8 weeks ahead for short-haul, 2-3 months for long-haul. Avoid last-minute bookings.
Use Price Alerts
Set alerts and let deals come to you. Prices fluctuate constantly.
Clear Your Cookies
Search in incognito mode. Some sites track searches and raise prices.
Mix and Match Airlines
Sometimes separate bookings for outbound and return saves money.
The Complete Guide to Finding Cheap Flights
Finding cheap flights isn't about luck—it's about strategy. Airlines use complex pricing algorithms, but understanding how they work gives you the upper hand. Here's everything you need to know to consistently find the best deals.
1. Master Date Flexibility
Date flexibility is the single biggest factor in finding cheap flights. Prices can vary by 50% or more between the most and least expensive days to fly.
- Fly midweek: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday are typically cheapest
- Avoid peak times: Friday evening and Sunday afternoon are most expensive
- Use flexible date search: See a whole month of prices at once
- Consider red-eyes: Overnight flights are often significantly cheaper
2. Understand Airline Pricing
Airlines constantly adjust prices based on demand, competition, and time to departure. They're not trying to charge the "fair" price—they're trying to maximize revenue.
This means the same seat on the same flight can cost different amounts depending on when you book, how you search, and what the airline thinks you're willing to pay.
3. Compare Everything
Never book the first price you see. Different booking sites have different prices for identical flights because:
- OTAs negotiate different rates with airlines
- Some sites add higher booking fees
- Airlines may offer exclusive deals direct
- Error fares may appear on only some platforms
4. Consider Budget Airlines—But Calculate Total Cost
Budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air offer incredibly low base fares, but extras add up quickly:
- Checked baggage: £25-50 per bag, per direction
- Seat selection: £5-30 depending on position
- Priority boarding: £6-15
- Food and drinks: £5-15
- Payment fees: Some charge for credit card payments
For short trips with just a personal item, budget airlines are unbeatable. For longer trips needing checked bags, legacy carriers may work out cheaper.
5. Time Your Booking Right
The sweet spot for booking depends on your destination:
- Short-haul Europe: 4-8 weeks ahead
- Long-haul economy: 8-12 weeks ahead
- Business class: 12-20 weeks ahead, or watch for sales
- Peak season: As early as possible
6. Use Price Alerts Religiously
Stop checking prices obsessively. Set up price alerts and let deals come to you. When prices drop to your target, you'll be notified immediately.
7. Look for Error Fares and Sales
Error fares—pricing mistakes by airlines—can offer 50-90% off normal prices. They're rare but incredibly valuable. Subscribe to deal alert services to catch them.
Airline sales are more common and predictable. Major sales typically happen:
- January (New Year sales)
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday
- Off-peak booking periods
- New route launches
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to book flights?
Compare prices across multiple sites using our search, be flexible with dates, consider budget airlines, and book during sale periods. Setting price alerts ensures you catch the best deals.
Are flight prices cheaper on certain websites?
Prices can vary between sites due to different partnerships and fees. Our comparison searches all major airlines and OTAs simultaneously to find the lowest available price.
How do I find error fares?
Error fares are pricing mistakes that offer incredible savings. Subscribe to deal alert services and be ready to book immediately—these fares typically last only hours.
Is it cheaper to book directly with airlines?
Not always. Sometimes OTAs offer better prices or bundles. However, booking direct may offer better customer service and easier changes. Compare both options.
Do VPNs help find cheaper flights?
In theory, prices can vary by location. In practice, the savings are usually minimal and using VPNs may violate terms of service. Focus on proven strategies instead.
Should I book a package deal or separate flights and hotels?
Package deals can save 20-30% for popular destinations, especially during peak seasons. However, for budget travel or complex itineraries, booking separately often offers more flexibility and potentially lower costs.
What time of day are flights cheapest?
Early morning (6-7am) and late evening (after 8pm) flights are typically 10-20% cheaper than mid-day departures. Red-eye flights offer the biggest savings, plus you save on a night’s accommodation.
How do budget airline prices compare to full-service carriers?
Budget airlines can be 40-60% cheaper for the base fare. However, add-on costs for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services can narrow or eliminate the gap. Always compare total cost including extras.