10 Proven Ways to Save Money on Airfare Today

Planning a trip? Airfare can take a big chunk out of your travel budget. Luckily, there are many ways to save money on airfare without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Here are 10 proven ways to save money on airfare today.

Book flights in advance

Booking flights in advance can save you a lot of money. Many airlines offer discounts if you book your flight at least 21 days in advance. This not only applies to domestic flights but also international flights. Keep in mind, though, that booking too far in advance can also be costly, so be strategic about when you book.

Be flexible with travel dates

Being flexible with your travel dates is another way to save money on airfare. Avoid peak travel dates (like holidays and weekends) as they tend to be the most expensive. Instead, plan to travel mid-week or during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when prices are lower.

Sign up for airline newsletters and alerts

Many airlines offer exclusive deals and discounts to their email subscribers. Sign up for all the alerts you can get and stay updated with their newsletters to receive exclusive offers that are not available elsewhere.

Use a price aggregator website

Instead of searching for deals on different websites, use price aggregator websites or apps like Google Flights and Kayak to compare prices from different airlines. These websites use complex algorithms to find the best deal for your chosen destination.

Consider alternative airports

The most popular airports tend to be the most expensive. Consider using alternative airports that may be located further away from your destination. You may have to take a bus or train to reach your final destination, but the cost savings can be significant.

Choose budget airlines

Budget airlines are often cheaper than mainstream airlines. While they may not be as luxurious and may charge extra fees for things like seats, snacks and baggage, you can still save a significant amount of money by using them.

Use your frequent flyer miles

If you're a frequent traveler, use your frequent flyer miles to redeem a free flight or upgrade. Many airlines also offer credit card rewards and bonus miles for first-time users, so be sure to take advantage of these offers to save money on future flights.

Book a package deal

Booking a package deal that includes your flight, accommodation, and car rental can save you a lot of money. Many airlines offer these deals, and they can be a great way to save money on multiple aspects of your trip.

Avoid booking extras

When booking your flight, avoid booking extras such as seat upgrades, extra baggage allowance or meal options. These extras can add up and end up making your flight more expensive than it needs to be.

Clear your browser cache

Many airlines and websites track your browsing activity using cookies, which can bump up the price of flights. To avoid this, clear your browser cache and cookies before searching for airfares.