Are you someone who loves to travel but doesn’t enjoy spending a fortune on flights? Well, you’re in luck! In this video, Sorelle Amore shares 7 travel hacks to help you find cheap flights. She understands that expensive flights can put a damper on your vacation vibes, so she’s here to help you get the best deals possible. Sorelle’s tips include being flexible with your travel dates and destinations, avoiding peak travel times, flying off-season or on major holidays, and taking advantage of the deals offered by budget airlines. She also recommends checking multiple search engines, using points and miles, and keeping an eye out for special deals. With these hacks, you’ll be able to save money on flights, allowing you to have more funds for enjoying your travel adventures to the fullest. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to plan your next trip without breaking the bank!
Flexible Dates and Destination
Importance of flexibility
When it comes to finding cheap flights, flexibility is key. Being flexible with both your travel dates and your destination can help you secure the best deals. By being open to different travel dates, you can take advantage of off-season prices and avoid peak travel periods, such as New Year’s Eve or Christmas. Off-season and major holidays flights tend to be cheaper, as most people prefer to be at their destination rather than in the air. Additionally, flying during the middle of the week or during early morning or late night hours can also lead to more affordable flights.
Best times to travel
To maximize your chances of finding cheap flights, it’s important to know the best times to travel. Avoiding peak travel seasons, such as summer vacations or holidays, can significantly lower the cost of your flights. In Europe, for example, August is generally an expensive month for travel. On the other hand, flying off-season, such as in January or February, can result in significant savings. Planning your travel around these quieter periods can help you find the best deals.
Flying off season
Flying off-season, as mentioned earlier, is a great way to save money on flights. Off-season refers to periods when fewer people are traveling, and airlines often lower their prices to attract more passengers. By choosing to travel during these times, you can enjoy cheaper flights and potentially save a significant amount of money. Additionally, flying off-season often means less crowded airports and fewer tourists at your destination, allowing you to have a more authentic and peaceful travel experience.
Flying on major holidays
Contrary to popular belief, flying on major holidays can actually be a budget-friendly option. Many people prefer to be with their loved ones during holidays rather than traveling, resulting in less demand for flights. Take advantage of this and book your flights on major holidays, such as Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Not only will you find cheaper fares, but you may also experience a quieter and more relaxed travel experience. Keep in mind that flying very early in the morning or very late at night can also lead to savings, as these flights tend to be less popular.
Search Engines
Using search engines that allow flexible destinations
When searching for cheap flights, using search engines that offer the option to search for flexible destinations can be incredibly helpful. Websites like Kayak, Kiwi.com, and Skyscanner allow users to specify their departure location and search for flights to “everywhere.” This feature allows you to see the cheapest destinations available from your chosen departure point. By being open to different destinations, you can potentially find better deals and discover new travel opportunities that you might not have considered before.
Not always flying direct
Flying direct may seem like the most convenient option, but it’s not always the most cost-effective one. Instead of booking a direct flight, consider flying to a major hub and then taking smaller flights to your final destination. For example, if you’re traveling from Toronto to Bali, booking a flight to Singapore (a major hub in Asia) and then taking a budget airline from Singapore to Bali might be a more affordable option. By considering alternative routes and breaking up your journey, you can often find cheaper flights.
Finding nearest large hubs
When planning your flights, it’s essential to identify the nearest large hubs to your desired destination. In the United States, popular hubs include Los Angeles and the New York City area, while in Europe, Amsterdam and the UK serve as major hubs. In Asia, Singapore is a common hub connecting various destinations. By flying into these hubs, you can often find more flight options and potentially better prices. However, remember to allow at least 3 hours between connecting flights to account for any delays and ensure a smooth travel experience.
Booking with at least 3 hours between connecting flights
When booking flights with connecting flights, it’s crucial to leave enough time between each leg of your journey. Aim to have at least 3 hours between flights to allow for any delays or unexpected circumstances. If you have a short gap between connections and your first flight is delayed, the second airline may not wait for you. By leaving a buffer of at least 3 hours, you can avoid any unnecessary stress or missed connections. It’s also worth considering travel insurance to provide extra peace of mind in case of flight disruptions.
Checking Multiple Search Engines
Importance of checking multiple search engines
To find the best deals on flights, it’s essential to check multiple search engines. Different search engines may have different partnerships with airlines or offer exclusive deals, so comparing prices across various platforms can help you secure the most affordable fares. Websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Kiwi.com are popular search engines that offer extensive flight options and competitive prices. Take the time to check multiple platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your desired travel dates and destinations.
Using points and miles
If you’re a frequent traveler, taking advantage of airline rewards programs and using points and miles can lead to substantial savings. Many airlines offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points for flights and other purchases, which can then be redeemed for discounted or free flights. Consider signing up for these programs to start accumulating points and miles for future travels. It’s worth noting that while using points and miles can be an excellent way to save money, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with each program’s terms and conditions to maximize your rewards.
Special Deals
Subscribing to email lists for special deals
To stay informed about special deals and promotions, consider subscribing to email lists of airlines, travel agencies, and online booking platforms. While receiving promotional emails can sometimes be overwhelming, signing up for these newsletters can provide you with exclusive access to discounted flights and packages. Keep an eye on your inbox for flash sales, limited-time offers, and seasonal promotions that can help you save money on your next trip. Remember to prioritize your preferred departure locations and desired travel dates when subscribing to ensure you receive relevant deals.
Websites for finding special deals
In addition to subscribing to email lists, several websites specialize in finding special deals on flights. Websites like Airfare Watchdog, The Flight Deal, Holiday Pirates, and Secret Flying curate and share discounted flight options from various airlines. These platforms often highlight error fares, last-minute deals, and flash sales, making them valuable resources for budget-conscious travelers. By regularly checking these websites, you might stumble upon incredible flight deals that can significantly reduce your travel expenses.
Best Time to Book
Booking 6-8 weeks before flying
Finding the best time to book your flights can be tricky, but experts often recommend booking 6 to 8 weeks before your desired departure date. During this period, airlines may release discounted fares to fill remaining seats on their flights. Booking within this timeframe allows you to take advantage of these deals and secure more affordable prices. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, so it’s important to monitor fare trends and set fare alerts to be notified of any price drops or promotions.
Booking 3 months in advance for major holidays
For major holidays or peak travel periods, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, it’s advisable to book your flights around 3 months in advance. As these periods are in high demand, prices tend to rise closer to the departure dates. By booking early, you can lock in lower prices and ensure availability for your desired travel dates. It’s important to note that different holidays and destinations may have varying booking trends, so it’s always a good idea to research specific recommendations for your chosen travel period.
Not booking too far in advance or too close to departure
While booking in advance is generally recommended, it’s crucial not to book too far in advance. Airlines often release their flight schedules around 11 months before departure, but prices during this period can be high due to limited availability. Waiting until the 6 to 8-week mark allows you to take advantage of potential fare drops. Conversely, booking too close to departure can also result in higher prices, as airlines may increase fares for last-minute travelers. Finding the right balance and considering the specific travel period is key to securing the best deals.
Saving Time and Money
Booking flights within an hour
When searching for flights, it’s important not to spend excessive amounts of time comparing prices and options. While it’s advisable to check multiple search engines and platforms, spending too much time can lead to analysis paralysis and potentially higher prices due to procrastination. Aim to book your flights within an hour of comparing prices and options. This timeframe allows you to make an informed decision without wasting unnecessary time. Remember, the goal is to find affordable flights and maximize your travel experiences without getting caught up in excessive planning.
Not spending too much time to save small amounts of money
While finding the best deals on flights is essential, it’s equally important to assess the value of your time. Spending countless hours searching for small price differences between flights may not always be worth the effort. Ultimately, the goal is to save money on flights to have more funds available for enjoyable experiences during your travels. Instead of obsessing over every dollar, focus on finding reasonable prices that fit within your budget. Prioritize your time and energy on planning exciting activities and creating unforgettable memories during your trip.
Conclusion
In summary, finding cheap flights requires a combination of flexibility, strategic search methods, and timing. By being open to flexible travel dates and destinations, you can take advantage of off-season prices and avoid peak travel periods. Utilizing search engines that allow flexible destinations and considering alternative flight routes can also lead to significant savings. Checking multiple search engines, subscribing to email lists, and using points and miles are additional tactics to find special deals. Timing plays a crucial role in securing cheap flights, with booking 6 to 8 weeks in advance and 3 months before major holidays being recommended. Ultimately, it’s important to balance time and money, prioritizing affordable flights without sacrificing the enjoyment of your travel experiences. With these travel hacks in mind, you can embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing that you’ve found the best deals possible. Happy and affordable travels!