15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights

15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Leverage Airline Loyalty Programs to Maximize Savings

Airline loyalty programs can be a game-changer when it comes to scoring cheap flights. By strategically earning and redeeming miles or points, savvy travelers can significantly reduce the cost of their airfare. The key is understanding how to maximize the value of these programs.
First, focus on earning miles or points through credit card spend and sign-up bonuses. Many co-branded airline credit cards offer generous welcome offers that can jumpstart your mileage balance. Additionally, using the card for everyday purchases can quickly rack up redeemable rewards. Be sure to research the earning rates and perks of different cards to find the one that aligns best with your travel goals.
Next, learn how to stretch the value of your miles or points. Redeeming for premium cabin flights can unlock outsized value, with business and first-class tickets often costing far fewer miles than you'd expect. Additionally, look for opportunities to book award flights during off-peak travel periods, when award availability is typically better and redemption rates are lower.
Diversifying your miles and points across multiple programs can also expand your options when it comes time to book. By earning a mix of airline, hotel, and transferable currencies, you'll have more flexibility to find the best redemption sweet spots. Just be mindful of expiration dates and account activity requirements to keep your balances intact.
Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your redemptions. Many loyalty programs offer unique experiences and upgrades that can enhance your travels. From spa treatments and lounge access to exclusive tours and dining experiences, these perks can add tremendous value beyond just discounted airfare.

What else is in this post?

1. 15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Leverage Airline Loyalty Programs to Maximize Savings
2. 15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Timing is Everything: When to Book for the Best Deals
3. 15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Hidden Gems: Exploring Lesser-Known Airports for Cheap Fares
4. 15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Embracing Flexibility: How Adjusting Dates Can Lead to Big Savings
5. 15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Combine and Conquer: Mixing and Matching Airline and Cabin Classes

15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Timing is Everything: When to Book for the Best Deals

The sweet spot for booking domestic flights is typically around 4-6 weeks in advance. This timeframe allows you to take advantage of early bird pricing while still having a decent selection of flight options. However, be mindful of major holidays and peak travel seasons, as prices can surge during these periods. Aim to book at least 2-3 months out for international flights, as availability and fares tend to be more favorable the further out you plan.
Another key factor is the day of the week you book. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are often considered the best days to snag the lowest fares. Airlines frequently release new sale prices and discounts midweek, and travelers tend to book more on the weekends, driving up prices. By avoiding the busier booking days, you can capitalize on the quieter midweek lull.
The day of the week you actually fly can also impact your airfare. Weekday flights, particularly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, are generally cheaper than weekend getaways. Airlines know that business travelers are more likely to fly midweek, while leisure passengers often prefer to depart and return on the weekend. By being flexible with your travel dates, you can substantially reduce your costs.

15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Hidden Gems: Exploring Lesser-Known Airports for Cheap Fares

Major hub airports like LAX and JFK get all the glory, but savvy travelers know that smaller regional airports often have better deals. Flying out of alternate airports can unlock significant savings, if you’re willing to travel a bit further to get there.

For example, the Ontario Airport (ONT) offers a stress-free alternative to the crowded LAX, and routinely has lower fares than its crowded cousin. It's just a bit farther east, but the potential hundreds in savings can make the extra drive worthwhile.
In the Bay Area, Oakland International Airport (OAK) tends to have cheaper flights than San Francisco International Airport (SFO) across major domestic and international routes. The bonus is that Oakland offers easier access and less congestion as well.
Flying out of Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) rather than O’Hare (ORD) can also score Chicagoans major savings, especially on short-haul routes. Midway’s smaller size makes security and gates accessible.
In the New York City metro area, swapping JFK for Islip Airport (ISP) on Long Island can slice a significant chunk off transcontinental flights. The bonus is avoiding JFK's infamous crowds and delays.
The key is researching all your airport options within reasonable driving distance. Focus your flight searches on alternate airports for a week or two to compare costs across multiple dates and airlines. The savings might not be enormous for every route, but even $50-100 in savings adds up quickly.

15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Embracing Flexibility: How Adjusting Dates Can Lead to Big Savings

One of the easiest ways to score cheap airfare is simply by being flexible with your travel dates. Airlines use complex algorithms to set fares based on forecasted demand. By shifting your schedule even just a day or two, you can capitalize on fluctuations in pricing across different departure dates.

Aim to travel during off-peak periods when demand is lower. For example, red-eye flights are often cheaper because fewer people want to fly overnight. Traveling midweek instead of on weekends can also unlock savings. Holiday weeks and school breaks typically have inflated fares, so avoid them if possible.

Don't get fixated on specific dates. Use flexible date search tools to compare fares across a whole month. Consider booking the cheapest flight you find, then adjusting the rest of your trip around those dates. As long as you give yourself a range, you'll likely discover attractive pricing options.
Monitor fares and rebook if prices drop after you’ve booked. Set fare alerts and check back frequently as departure nears —last-minute sales do happen. If the fare drops, cancel your original booking and rebook at the lower price.
Finally, don't be afraid to take red-eyes or endure long layovers to reduce costs. Redeye flights are significantly cheaper for airlines to operate. And lengthy connections allow them to consolidate passengers onto fewer planes. By enduring a bit of scheduling discomfort, huge savings can be yours.

15 Savvy Tips for Scoring the Cheapest Flights - Combine and Conquer: Mixing and Matching Airline and Cabin Classes

Mixing and matching airlines and cabin classes can unlock huge savings for savvy travelers. The key is understanding how to effectively combine different fares into a single cohesive itinerary. Here are some clever strategies for piecing together an affordable trip:

Book a cheap economy ticket on the long-haul portion, then pay a bit more for an upgrade on the shorter connection. For example, fly economy basic on a direct flight from LAX to JFK, then book a business class seat on the regional connection from JFK to Boston. This allows you to enjoy the premier experience where it matters most - on the shorter leg with lie-flat seats - without overspending.

If you’re traveling internationally, book a discounted economy fare overseas then use miles to snag a business class award ticket home. Many airlines release more business class award space closer to departure. Time it right flying over, then indulge on the return with an aspirational redemption.
Consider mixing and matching alliance partners. Book on one airline heading out, then return on a partner to double-dip on earning rewards. Or use miles from Airline A to fly business class on Airline B under the same alliance. This maximizes your redemption options.
Don’t forget about open-jaws and stopovers. Fly into one city and out of another, with a stopover in between to create your own custom routing. Piece together segments on multiple airlines using each carrier where it makes sense.