How to Find Cheap Flights Around the World (Part 2)
Back to Part 2, where I tell you my secret for getting a flight cheaper.
I know you're tired of sifting through countless flight options, only to find sky-high prices or limited choices. It’s time to embark on a journey to become a master of flight booking, and it all starts with diversifying your search engines.
In a world where not all flight search engines are created equal, finding the best deals can be a daunting task.
Many major websites focus solely on the big players in the airline industry, leaving budget and foreign carriers in the shadows. The language you use in your searches can even influence the results you see.
But fret not; we’re here to guide you through the art of uncovering hidden gems in the world of airfare.
In today's article, we’ll share invaluable tips and tricks to help you score the best flight deals, starting with the importance of diversifying your search engines.
We’ve handpicked three reliable platforms to kickstart your quest for the perfect fare. From there, we’ll delve into a treasure trove of strategies, including mixing and matching airlines, joining frequent flyer programs, and booking at the optimal time.
Students and deal-seekers alike will discover how to unlock exclusive discounts, and we’ll reveal the secret of searching for tickets individually. Plus, for the adventurous traveler, we’ll show you how exploring other currencies can lead to substantial savings.
Get ready to revolutionize your flight booking game and unlock the world of affordable travel. It’s time to take off on a journey to smarter, more cost-effective adventures. And don’t forget to check out the previous article for more tips and strategies.
Diversify Your Search Engines
Not all flight search engines are the same. Many major websites focus on large airlines, while others exclude budget and foreign carriers. Language can also play a role in what you find. To ensure you get the best deals, use multiple search engines.
Here are three reliable ones to start with:
- Google Flights: Great for comparing prices across multiple destinations and airlines.
- Skyscanner: Offers a user-friendly interface and a mobile app for both iOS and Android.
- Momondo: Searches a vast array of airlines and websites, sometimes revealing flights up to 92% cheaper.
By using these together, you can cover a wide range of airlines and offers. Additionally, consider exploring local websites for added data and possibilities.
Mix and Match Airlines
Booking flights with a single airline can limit your options and sometimes result in higher prices. Instead, explore mix-and-match options.
For example, if you’re flying from New York to Paris with a layover in London, consider booking the New York to London flight with one airline and the London to Paris flight with another.
This can lead to cost savings and better deals. It may involve more planning and effort, but the potential savings are worth it. Many third-party booking websites use this method to piece together trips at the best prices.
Join Frequent Flyer Programs
As soon as you know you’ll be traveling, sign up for a travel rewards card. Airline rewards programs are excellent for earning free flights, hotel stays, upgrades, and more.
You don’t have to travel frequently to benefit. Simply collecting points and miles can eventually earn you free tickets and other perks.
Being savvy with your rewards can enable you to travel the world for very little or even for free. Always look for welcome bonuses, credit card rewards, and other ways to maximize your benefits.
Book at the Right Time
Booking at the right time is crucial. Airline fares tend to increase the closer you get to your departure date. However, there’s a sweet spot when airlines adjust fares based on demand.
Aim to book your flight approximately 2 to 3 months before your departure, especially for high-season travel. While this isn’t a strict rule, it serves as a good guideline. Booking too early or too late can result in higher prices.
Unlock Student Discounts
If you’re a student or under 26, take advantage of student discounts.
Many airlines offer reduced fares for students, often extending these discounts to their partners for added savings. Look for these discounts on airline websites or contact their customer service to inquire.
Search for Tickets Individually
When traveling with friends or family, avoid searching for and buying multiple tickets in a single purchase. Airlines tend to charge the highest prices for group bookings.
For instance, if four seats are available at $200, $300, $400, and $500, the airline will apply the highest price to all tickets, resulting in a total cost of $500 per ticket.
Instead, search for tickets individually. During the checkout process, you can select seats together if needed. Even if you can’t secure adjacent seats, the potential savings make it a worthwhile trade-off.
Explore Other Currencies
If your currency is strong compared to others, consider searching for flights in a weaker currency. This tactic can yield significant savings.
For example, if you’re a US citizen, when the US dollar is strong and a weaker currency prevails, searching for flights in that weaker currency, like New Zealand dollars, can result in substantial discounts.
While not applicable to every situation, exploring other currencies can pay off in some cases.
Final thought
As we wrap up this guide to becoming a savvy flight booker, you’re now armed with a treasure trove of tips and tactics to navigate the complex world of airfare.
Diversifying your search engines has set you on the path to discovering incredible deals and options that you might have otherwise missed.
From exploring multiple search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo to embracing the art of mixing and matching airlines, you’re now equipped with the tools to unlock savings and open up new possibilities for your travel adventures.
By joining frequent flyer programs, booking at the right time, and seizing student discounts, you’re on the fast track to making your wanderlust dreams a reality.
Remember, the journey doesn’t end here. As you continue to explore the globe, keep these strategies in your back pocket, and don’t hesitate to adapt and innovate. Your next adventure is just a well-planned flight away.
So, whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland, savoring street food in Bangkok, or strolling through historic European cities, may your travels be filled with unforgettable moments and incredible savings.
Safe travels, savvy traveler!
