Best Way To Save Money On Flights: 15 Genius Hacks For Saving Big On Airfare

If you’re looking for the best way to save money on flights, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of ways to save.

In fact, you’re about to discover 15 genius hacks to help you save big on airfare. Then, you can say goodbye to overpriced tickets and hello to budget-friendly adventures!

So, read more below and buckle up for a journey to smarter, more economical travel.

CONTENTS – In this article, you will learn the best way to save money on flights so you can travel under budget without compromising comfort. This includes:

• How to Save Money on Flights
• 15 Ways to Save Money on Flights
• 1. Flexible Travel Dates
• 2. Off-Peak Travel
• 3. Early Bird Booking 
• 4. Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
• 5. Pack Light and Avoid Extra Fees
• 6. Book Multi-City or Layover Flights
• 7. Use Coupon Codes and Discounts
• 8. Choose the Right Credit Card
• 9. Special Discounts for Students and Military Personnel
• 10. Consider Alternate Airports
• 11. Sign Up for Fare Alerts
• 12. Book One-way Air Travel
• 14. Book Red Eye Flights 
• 15. Book Directly 
• Consider Budget Airlines
• Final Thoughts on the Best Way to Save Money on Flights
• Next Steps

How to Save Money on Flights

Are you tired of watching your travel budget soar with the cost of flights? Then, it’s a logical next step to look for the best way to save money on flights.

You might wonder, “what are the secrets to booking airfare?”

Well, you are not alone.

Many travelers are on a quest to uncover the art of saving money on flights.

The rising costs of air travel can often leave you feeling grounded before you’ve even taken off, making it imperative to seek out ways to cut expenses.

Air travel expenses can add up quickly, especially if you are a frequent traveler or planning a long-distance journey.

So, you will definitely benefit from knowing the best way to save money on flights.

But fear not. In this article, you will learn tips, tricks, and insider strategies that can help you slash your flight expenses without compromising the quality of your travel experience.

Now, let’s delve into the world of how to save money on flights and explore how you can score unbeatable deals on your next journey.

15 Ways to Save Money on Flights

Saving money on flights involves employing various strategies to minimize the cost of air travel while still enjoying a comfortable and convenient trip.

Here’s a detailed explanation of how to save money on flights.

1. Flexible Travel Dates

One of the best ways to save on flights is by being flexible with your travel dates.

Airlines adjust their prices based on demand, so if you can be flexible with your departure and return dates, you are more likely to find budget-friendly options.

Consider traveling a day earlier or later to see if it makes a difference in your airfare.

According to the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), the average discount on a domestic flight in the United States is 15%.

2. Off-Peak Travel

Prices tend to skyrocket during major holidays.

So, you’ll want to consider traveling a few days before or after to save on airfare.

Traveling during non-peak seasons can be a wallet-friendly choice. That’s because popular tourist destinations are less crowded then, and airlines often drop their prices to fill seats during slower periods.

This means you can explore your dream destinations without the tourist rush and high prices.

Pro Tip: If you can, consider booking flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. International flights are usually cheaper on weekdays, while you will usually find the airfare cheaper for internal flights if you book on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday.

3. Early Bird Booking 

One of the most tried-and-true methods for securing affordable flights is to book well in advance. It’s considered the best way to save money on flights.

Airlines typically release their flight schedules and fares up to a year in advance. By booking your flights early, you can take advantage of lower prices before they increase closer to the departure date.

According to the RetailMeNot survey, the most popular types of coupons or promo codes for travel were those for hotels (42%), flights (38%), and car rentals (28%).

According to a recent study by aspiringyouths.com, booking in advance can save travelers up to 25% on flight costs.

Tip to Save on Flights: Research indicates that booking your flights approximately 2-3 months in advance can yield the best deals. This is a strategy that frequent travelers swear by.

4. Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs

Frequent travelers can maximize their savings by enrolling in airline loyalty programs.

These programs reward loyal customers with points or miles for each flight they take. When you accumulate points, they can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades.

This effectively reduces the overall cost of your air travel.

Tip to Save on Airfare: Research airlines with robust loyalty programs and sign up for memberships. Also, keep an eye out for credit card partnerships that offer bonus miles upon signup.

5. Pack Light and Avoid Extra Fees

Airlines often charge extra fees for checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight amenities.

To save money, you’ll want to pack efficiently and consider traveling with only carry-on luggage when possible.

Additionally, check the airline’s baggage policies before booking to avoid unexpected fees as its also a best way to save money on flights.

Pro tip: Prioritize airlines that offer complimentary baggage allowances and onboard services, reducing the overall cost of your journey.

6. Book Multi-City or Layover Flights

Opting for multi-city flights or layovers can lead to significant cost reductions.

These itineraries may involve longer travel times or brief stopovers, but they often come with lower price tags.

Also, you get the opportunity to explore more destinations during your journey.

Tip to Save on Flights: When searching for flights, select the “multi-city” or “layover” option and compare prices to direct flights. You might find a great deal while adding an extra stop to your adventure.

7. Use Coupon Codes and Discounts

Airline coupons are promotional codes or vouchers that provide discounts on airfare. These coupons can be a game-changer in your quest to save money on flights.

They come in various forms, including:

• Percentage discounts
• Fixed-dollar discounts
• Even free baggage allowances

ClothingRIC is a trusted resource for finding airline coupons and discounts.

While it’s primarily known for its clothing deals, the website also offers a wide range of travel-related coupons, including discounts on flights.

It’s a one-stop destination to find the latest offers to save money on flights.

You can also search for small travel items that do not take that much space and will be a money saver if you are going anywhere in your country, such as kaabo usa coupon codes that offer e-scooters at reasonable rates.

In a survey conducted by RetailMeNot, 64% of respondents reported using coupons or promo codes when booking travel, highlighting their continued relevance. 

7% of respondents indicated that they decided to make travel arrangements after coming across a unique promotional offer or a reduced price for a particular destination. (Source: ThinkwithGoogle)

Here are a few tips:

• Keep an eye out for coupon codes and promotional offers. You’ll find them on airline websites, on social media, and in travel-related newsletters.
• Apply coupon codes during the booking process to unlock discounts or other benefits, such as a free baggage allowance or seat upgrades.

8. Choose the Right Credit Card

Select a credit card with a robust rewards program to save on flights.

You’ll want to look for credit cards that offer:

• Generous signup bonuses
• Favorable earning rates for travel-related purchases
• Flexibility in redeeming points or miles

Additionally, it’s a good idea to consider cards that align with your preferred airline or airline alliance. It’s one of the best ways to save money on flights.

Tip to Save on Flights: Research and compare travel rewards credit cards to find one that suits your spending habits and travel preferences. Remember to factor in annual fees and interest rates when making your decision.

9. Special Discounts for Students and Military Personnel

Are you a student or part of the military? If so, you’re in luck.

Many airlines and travel agencies offer exclusive discounts specifically for students and service members.

Flight discounts, such as military and student discounts, can significantly reduce your overall travel expenses.

You can also consider looking for stores that offer discounts on tents and ovens (like Pomoly coupon codes) so you can go camping anywhere you go.

10. Consider Alternate Airports

Many major cities have multiple airports, and this can work to your advantage.

Check if there are smaller airports near your destination that offer cheaper flights. While it may involve a bit of extra travel, the cost savings can be significant.

Pro Tip: When searching for flights, use the nearby airports option on travel booking websites to see if there are more affordable alternatives.

11. Sign Up for Fare Alerts

Want to be among the first to know when flight prices drop for your chosen route?

Fare alerts are your answer.

Several travel websites and airlines offer this service. They will send you email notifications when prices decrease to ensure you never miss out on a great deal.

The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights in 2023 highlights that signing up for fare alerts and using coupons can result in savings of up to 20% on airfare (source: going.com)

Pro Tip: Be sure to sign up for fare alerts well in advance of your travel dates to allow ample time for price fluctuations

12. Book One-Way Air Travel

Booking round-trip airfare used to be much more economical. However, this is not always the case.

Instead, you can come out on top if you are ready to book your “to” flight with one airline and your “home” flight with another.

This isn’t always the case, but it’s worth considering booking one-way air travel when you browse around.

13. Book Red Eye Flights 

Booking red-eye flights–overnight flights typically departing late at night and arriving early in the morning–helps you save on flights.

Red-eye flights are often cheaper than flights during more convenient daytime hours.

That’s because airlines tend to have fewer passengers and reduce prices to attract travelers willing to endure the inconvenience of late-night travel.

Note: Remember that red-eye flights may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have trouble sleeping on planes or if you have commitments immediately upon arrival. However, they can be an excellent cost-saving option for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking to maximize their time at their destination.

14. Book Directly 

Many third-party booking websites charge booking fees or service fees. When you book directly with the airline, you can bypass these extra costs, potentially saving you money.

Did you know airlines frequently offer exclusive promotions, discounts, and deals on their websites that may not be available through third-party booking platforms?

It’s true.

These can include flash sales, limited-time offers, and fare bundles.

Airlines’ websites often allow you to customize your travel experience, such as by selecting specific seats and meal preferences or adding extra services like priority boarding, baggage options, and in-flight entertainment.

Pro Tip: When booking directly from an airline’s website to save on flights, make sure to check the fare calendar or flexible date search options.

15. Consider Budget Airlines

Low-cost carriers can offer significantly cheaper fares, especially for short-haul flights. Many budget airlines offer a range of fare options, allowing you to choose the level of service you want.

For example, you might opt for a basic fare with no extras, or you can pay a bit more for added perks like priority boarding or extra baggage.

Pro Tip: Save with budget airlines by understanding and budgeting for their extra fees in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Best Way to Save Money on Flights

Learning how to save money on flights is about being savvy with your choices.

From booking directly with airlines to considering budget options and staying flexible with travel dates, these strategies empower you to make the most of your travel budget. Using these tips will help you find affordable flight discounts.

With a bit of research and smart decision-making, you can make your dream destinations more attainable without breaking the bank.

Happy travels!

Next Steps

​For more tips about air travel, read these articles next:

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• How To Get Airline Compensation For Delayed Baggage, Lost Luggage
• Best Countries to Visit in Middle East: 6 Most Beautiful Destinations
• 7 Important Things to Do on Long Flights You Need to Know