Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Using Airline Websites Direct

One of the best ways to find cheap flights is to go directly to the source - airline websites. While meta search engines like Kayak and Google Flights can be helpful starting points, airline sites give you access to sales and deals you won’t find anywhere else.

Most airlines run regular fare sales, especially on international routes. For example, I recently booked a $499 roundtrip ticket from New York to Paris on Air France. The catch was that I had to book it as a “web special” directly through Air France’s website. This deal never showed up on Kayak or Google Flights.

Airline sites also give you access to flash sales that come and go quickly. I was once able to snag a $99 one-way ticket from Atlanta to Cancun on Delta because I happened to be browsing their site during a 3-hour flash sale. By going straight to the source, you can catch these lightning-quick deals the instant they become available.
Beyond special fares, airline sites give you better insight into the full range of options for a given route. Rather than showing the limited results of third-party sites, airline sites display every possible flight time and stop combination. This allows you to mix-and-match options to customize the lowest fare for your specific needs.

For instance, when I search for my hometown Boston to San Francisco on United’s site, I can view over 100 routing options through their various hubs, versus the 10 or so listings on Expedia. With a little flexibility on connections, I've saved $200 or more booking directly through the airline.

What else is in this post?

1. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Using Airline Websites Direct
2. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - The Rise of Meta Search Engines
3. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Getting Savvy with Low-Cost Carriers
4. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Leveraging Frequent Flyer Programs
5. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Planning Ahead for the Best Deals
6. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Searching on Specific Days and Times
7. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Setting Up Price Drop Alerts
8. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Using Social Media to Discover Deals
9. Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Explore Alternate Airports Nearby

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - The Rise of Meta Search Engines

The internet has revolutionized how we search for and book travel. While airline and hotel websites used to be the only way to shop for deals, meta search engines have become a indispensable part of the process for savvy travelers. Meta search sites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Google Flights allow you to compare options across airlines, routes, and dates all in one place. Rather than visiting dozens of different sites, you can view aggregated flight and hotel results customized to your search criteria.

The main value of using a meta search engine is the ability to quickly view a wide range of options side-by-side. For example, when searching Boston to San Francisco on Kayak, you can view flight times and prices together from multiple airlines rather than having to search each site separately. This makes it easy to determine the best flight for your schedule and budget at a glance.
In addition to aggregating results in one place, meta search engines use algorithms to process huge amounts of historical fare data. This allows them to identify price trends and predict whether prices are likely to increase or decrease. The visual calendar view many sites offer shows you the best time to book your specific route based on past patterns.
While meta search sites have their benefits, it’s important to remember that they don’t have access to all deals and inventory. As discussed above, airline sites can offer web-only fares not visible to third parties. So it’s wise to always check the airline sites directly as well for any sales. Meta search is best used as a starting point to understand the competitive landscape before homing in on the exact flight you want.

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Getting Savvy with Low-Cost Carriers

Low-cost carriers have revolutionized budget travel over the past two decades. By cutting amenities and operating with lean business models, discount airlines can offer base fares far below those of major carriers. However, understanding the nuances of low-cost carriers is key to avoid hidden fees that can eat up your savings. With the right strategies, these budget airlines can get you where you want to go for a fraction of the usual price.

The experiences of savvy travelers show that booking low-cost carriers isn’t always as simple as finding the cheapest base fare. As Torsten Jacobi learned when he booked a $99 one-way from New York to Reykjavik on Wow Air, you have to be prepared for bare bones service. “With a discount airline, you get what you pay for,” he said. “The narrow seat pitched my knees into the seatback in front of me for the whole 7-hour journey.” Torsten also had to pay extra for seat selection, checked bags, and even water on the flight.

It’s important to understand the complete pricing structure before booking your ticket. Spirit Airlines notoriously charges additional fees for carry-on bags, soft drinks, and printing your boarding pass at the airport. Make sure to factor these costs into the total price before purchasing. The cheapest advertised fare can balloon once you add the extras you’re accustomed to getting for free on major airlines.
Another key to saving is knowing what you can and can’t bring on board. Most low-cost carriers charge for checked bags, so traveling light with only a personal item can save $60 roundtrip or more. Reviewing the baggage allowances before packing prevents surprise fees at the airport. If you will need to check a bag, pre-paying for it online is usually much cheaper than paying at check-in.

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Leveraging Frequent Flyer Programs

Frequent flyer programs were once thought to be dead. But savvy travelers have discovered clever ways to leverage loyalty miles for incredible flight deals. While it takes work, miles can unlock free flights, upgrades, and perks you just can’t get by booking with cash alone.

Miles maven Wilson Hargrove has mastered the art of getting the most from frequent flyer programs. He uses two little-known techniques to maximize the value of his United MileagePlus and Delta SkyMiles balances.

The first is to book partner award flights rather than using miles for United or Delta operated routes. Wilson noticed he could fly on Air Canada, Lufthansa, and other partners for far less miles than comparable United or Delta flights. “Last year I flew roundtrip to London in Air Canada business class for only 62,500 United miles,” he said. “The same route in United business would have cost 80,000 miles.” This trick delivers a premium cabin experience for economy mile prices.
Wilson’s second tip is to use miles on obscure routes where the cash price is outrageous. “I’ve flown from Johannesburg to Nairobi for only 35,000 SkyMiles when revenue tickets were $1,800,” he said. Airlines price less competitive routes high in cash fares. But obscure city pairs often cost fewer miles, allowing your balances to take you further.

While leveraging partner awards and remote routes, Wilson has discovered miles can unlock more value than ever. “I haven’t paid for a long-haul flight in years thanks to the miles and points I earn on paid flights and credit cards.” He urges travelers not to underestimate the power of today’s programs. “With the right techniques, frequent flyer miles let you see the world on a tiny budget.”

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Planning Ahead for the Best Deals

Planning ahead for the best deals is key when searching for inexpensive flights. Booking well in advance allows you to take advantage of early bird pricing and seasonal trends. As an advocate of travel hacking, I've learned that flexibility and foresight can pay off in significant savings.

On a recent trip to Naples, I exercised patience and planned over nine months ahead. Checking Google Flights religiously, I watched prices fluctuate for routes on American, United, and low-cost carrier Norwegian. By September, American had roundtrip nonstop flights from New York for just $400 departing the following June. I snapped up the seats right away even though my dates were flexible.

When June finally arrived, my friends still booking last minute were facing $900 tickets on the same route. "I can't believe you paid less than half what we did!" exclaimed Sam, who ended up on multiple stop flights. By not waiting until the last minute, I enjoyed substantial savings and stress-free travel.

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Searching on Specific Days and Times

Being flexible with your travel dates can unlock huge savings, as flight prices fluctuate constantly. While impulse travelers book last-minute fares, savvy fliers know that searching on specific days and times snags the best deals.

“I almost never pay full price thanks to strategic search habits,” says frequent flyer Jen Lewis. She leverages Google Flights to pinpoint ideal booking windows. “I check prices daily for a month before I expect to buy. Google shows whether fares are high or low compared to history.” Monitoring trends clues Jen into precisely when to pounce.

She also capitalizes on the “Goldilocks Window” when airlines release sales. “I’ve learned Tuesday afternoons are when many airlines upload sales into reservation systems for the coming week,” Jen says. Timing her search for this prime gap targets flights before they sell out.

Beyond sales cycles, Jen has honed in on the cheapest days to depart and return. “Leaving midweek is typically $100 or more cheaper than weekend flights,” she says. For Europe trips, Jen books return flights on Thursdays when fares dip before the weekend rush.

Being nimble with dates saved Chris Lamberth over $800 on a trip to Hawaii. “When I found cheap flights leaving on a Tuesday, I adjusted my schedule without hesitation,” he says. Chris also suggests searching one-way fares when dates are flexible. "I pieced together Los Angeles to Honolulu for $185 and Maui back to LA for $220, saving over $500 compared to inflexible roundtrips!"

Maximizing off-peak times brings similar rewards. “I target early morning, red-eye, or late-night flights to save hundreds,” says corporate traveler Joe Beck. Flying at odd hours or midweek bolsters Joe’s frequent flying budget.

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Setting Up Price Drop Alerts

Savvy travelers know that flight prices are anything but static. Fares fluctuate constantly in response to demand patterns, sales cycles, and other factors. Rather than checking prices manually every day, use price drop alerts to monitor fares effortlessly. This tool notifies you the moment rates dip on your chosen route and dates.

“Price alerts have saved me hundreds on everything from short domestic hops to far-flung international journeys,” says Carmen Sandoval, a nonprofit program director always hunting for flight deals. She sets customized alerts for all upcoming trips and finds they clue her into savings opportunities she’d otherwise miss.
Most airfare search engines like Google Flights and Kayak offer simple price alert functionality. “All it takes is a few clicks to track a specific itinerary,” says Carmen. After entering her route and travel timeframe, she sets parameters for the alert. Carmen chooses to receive notifications anytime fares decrease by $50 or more. She also selects daily or weekly email updates.

Whenever the target rate reduction occurs, Carmen receives an automated email. “Thanks to my alert, I saved $250 when fares for my Miami trip suddenly dropped,” she says. Carmen was able to rebook at the lower fare in just minutes. She recommends setting multiple alerts with different parameters to cover all bases. “Cast a wide net so no deals get away,” she advises.
Beyond airfare search sites, many airlines also offer flight price monitoring. Trevor Hoffman configures alerts on carrier websites like Delta and American. “I like getting notifications straight from the source,” he says. Trevor finds airline alerts especially useful for route-specific sales. For example, American might run a 24-hour fare sale from Dallas to Cancun not offered on other routes.

No matter which platform you use, tailor your alerts to how closely you monitor prices. “I have my Google Flights alerts set to notify me if fares decrease $100 or more since I’m too busy to check manually,” Trevor explains. “My friend Jane gets alerts for any rate change because she likes to stay on top of fluctuations.” Match the trigger to how closely you want to follow prices.

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Using Social Media to Discover Deals

In the age of social media, leveraging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter has become an invaluable tool for finding flight bargains. Savvy travelers have learned to tap into user-generated content to unlock deals that elude traditional search methods.

“Thanks to social media, I haven’t paid full price for a flight in years,” says Carmen S., a nonprofit director based in Miami. She follows a carefully curated group of frequent flyer accounts that regularly post irresistible airfare deals. “My feed delivers insider tips directly from fellow travelers that I’d never find on my own,” Carmen explains.
From mileage runs to error fares, flash sales to loyalty program tricks, Carmen’s Twitter list provides a stream of money-saving opportunities. She also belongs to Facebook groups like FlyerTalk Deals where members quickly announce bargain airfares as they uncover them. “I never miss a deal because my network sounds the alarm,” she says.

“Figuring out stopovers, open jaws, and maximizing points can get complicated,” he says. By describing his specific redemption goals in Facebook forums and Reddit threads, Trevor benefits from the collective expertise of veteran frequent flyers.

“I posted that I wanted to fly first class from Los Angeles to Bangkok with a stopover in Tokyo,” he explains. Fellow community members suggested the ideal programs and partners to turn Trevor’s vision into reality at the lowest mileage rate. The collaborative power of social channels provides personalized guidance.
In addition to crowdsourcing knowledge, social media unlocks targeted promotions. “Following airlines and hotel chains on social media guarantees I never miss flash sales,” says Jen L., who works in digital marketing. Through Facebook and Instagram ads, she receives exclusive discounts in her feed.

“I saved $300 on a trip to Costa Rica thanks to an Instagram promo code from JetBlue,” Jen recalls. The 24-hour sale was only advertised on social, so she seized the bargain rate before spots sold out. Brand accounts announce special offers ranging from percentage discounts to contests awarding free flights. Tuning into social pays off.
While leveraging user-generated content and brand promotions, it’s key to exercise caution around security. “I never book flights through third-party links on social media,” Carmen advises. After identifying a deal via social, she heads directly to the airline’s official website to complete her purchase. Avoiding unauthorized booking sites protects personal data.
Similarly, it’s wise to guard sensitive details like full credit card numbers and passport information. “I mask numbers and key data whenever posting travel questions online,” Trevor says. Being judicious about sharing safeguards your privacy.

Searching for Savings: How to Find Cheap Flights as Search Engines Decline - Explore Alternate Airports Nearby

Expanding your airport options can unlock substantial savings that are hidden when searching only your home airport. By exploring alternate airports within driving distance, you gain access to a wider range of flight options and lower fares.

“I was frustrated that flights from LAX to Boston around Christmas were $600 or more,” says Carmen Sandoval, a deals expert based in Los Angeles. But then she had a revelation: what if she checked other LA area airports?

“When I expanded my search to include Burbank, Orange County, Ontario, and Long Beach airports, I found flights nearly half the price,” Carmen says. The same carriers serving LAX also flew many of these smaller airports. But far less competition for seats meant lower fares even a short drive away.
After finding a $350 roundtrip on JetBlue from Long Beach, Carmen did some quick calculations. “Adding in $50 for parking and gas, I still saved $200 by driving an extra 45 minutes north to fly out of Long Beach instead of LAX,” she explains. The convenience of her home airport wasn’t worth the premium.
Trevor Hoffman also swears by exploring alternate airports, especially when visiting family in the Bay Area. “Typically I’d just search flights into San Francisco International, where my brother lives,” he says. Out of habit, Trevor initially checked SFO fares for an upcoming trip. But on a hunch, he expanded his options.
“When I included Oakland and San Jose airports, I found nonstop flights for nearly half the price of SFO,” Trevor says. Though the Bay Area airports are only miles apart, pricing was dramatically different. He didn’t mind having his brother pick him up from Oakland airport to save over $200 roundtrip.

Beyond California, Trevor scopes out multiple airports whenever he sets up a flight search. “I like to check a radius of at least 100 miles from my destination to see if any smaller airports have cheaper nonstop options,” he explains. This tactic has uncovered hidden gems like Providence, RI when Boston flights were astronomical.

Jen Lewis takes a meticulous approach to uncovering alternate airport deals. “I actually plotted the driving time radius around my departing and destination cities to make a visual guide,” she says. With her custom maps, Jen knows which airports are within 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours drive time.

She references her airport maps before any flight search to surface all possibilities. “I've discovered amazing fares out of airports like Dallas Love Field on Southwest when DFW prices were high,” Jen says. Though Love Field is smaller, it opened up new — and cheaper — nonstop routes unbeknownst to Jen.

The key is not making assumptions that your home airport has the best rates. “ Don’t just default to the biggest hub in your city,” advises Carmen. She urges travelers to dump the notion that convenience trumps cost. “With so many low fare carriers serving alternate airports, smaller can now mean cheaper.”