Saving money on international flights requires a combination of smart strategies and flexibility. Here's a breakdown of the best approaches:
### 1. Book in Advance and Be Flexible with Dates
The general rule of thumb is that the earlier you book, the cheaper your tickets are likely to be. Prices tend to increase significantly in the 28 days leading up to departure.
- Optimal Booking Time: For international flights, aim to book three to four months before your departure date.
- Be Flexible with Travel Dates: If your schedule allows, flying on weekdays (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays) is often cheaper than weekends. Avoiding peak seasons and national or school holidays can also lead to significant savings.
- Utilize "Cheapest Month" Search: If you have a destination in mind but flexible travel dates, use search engines like Skyscanner to find the "Cheapest month" to fly.
### 2. Use Flight Comparison Websites and Set Price Alerts
Comparison websites are your best friends when hunting for deals.
- Comparison Tools: Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo allow you to compare fares across multiple airlines and online travel agents.
- "Add Nearby Airports" Feature: When searching, use the "Add nearby airports" option to see if flying into or out of a smaller or alternative airport can offer better deals.
- Price Alerts: Set up price alerts on these sites or apps like Hopper to get notifications when fares drop for your desired route.
### 3. Consider Alternative Flight Strategies
- Mix and Match Airlines/Airports: Don't be afraid to book one-way tickets with different airlines or fly into one airport and out of another if it saves you money.
- Budget Airlines: Befriend budget airlines, as they often offer significantly lower costs. Just be aware you might compromise on perks like in-flight meals or entertainment.
- Stopover Flights: If you have extra time, consider flights with stopovers. They can be cheaper than direct flights and sometimes even allow you to explore another city.
- Error Fares and Sales: Keep an eye out for airline sales and "error fares." Websites like Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) and Dollar Flight Club specialize in tracking these deals.
### 4. Leverage Loyalty Programs and Credit Cards
- Airline Loyalty Programs: Join airline loyalty programs (e.g., United MileagePlus, Delta SkyMiles) to earn miles that can be redeemed for future flights, making the effective cost cheaper. You can also sometimes earn miles on partner airlines.
- Travel Credit Cards: Many credit cards offer points or cashback for travel expenses, which can also be used towards flights.
### 5. Other Helpful Tips
- Clear Your Cookies/Use Incognito Mode: Some sources suggest that flight prices can increase based on your browsing history, so try searching in incognito mode.
- Consider Paying in Other Currencies: Before booking, check if the fare is cheaper when paid in a different currency. Just ensure you use a credit card without foreign transaction fees.
- Pack Light: Avoid checked luggage fees by packing only a carry-on when possible.
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