Cheap Flight Hacks: 10 Easy Ways to Save on Airfare

Finding affordable flights doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few strategic moves, you can cut down on airfare costs and travel smarter. These hacks are perfect for anyone looking to maximize savings while planning their next getaway.

Cheap Flight Hacks to Cut Your Airfare Costs

Finding affordable flights is easier than you think with these quick and effective cheap flight hacks.

Hack #1: Search Flights in Incognito Mode

Airlines often use cookies to track your searches and increase prices on repeat visits. To avoid this, open a private or incognito browser window when searching for flights. This ensures you see the lowest fares without price manipulation.

Hack #2: Book Flights on the Cheapest Days

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally the best days to book flights, as airlines release discounts mid-week. Avoid booking on weekends when prices tend to spike due to higher demand. For example, aim to book a flight leaving midweek rather than on a Friday or Sunday.

Hack #3: Use Flight Comparison Websites

Tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo let you compare fares across multiple airlines. Once you find a deal, double-check directly on the airline’s website—it’s often cheaper than booking through third-party platforms.

Hack #4: Set Up Fare Alerts

Sign up for fare alerts on websites like Hopper or Kayak. These tools notify you when ticket prices drop for your selected route. For example, if you’re planning a trip to New York, set an alert for the specific dates and get updates on deals as they appear.

Hack #5: Be Flexible with Dates and Airports

Adjusting your travel dates by just a day or two can save you hundreds of dollars. Similarly, flying from or to smaller nearby airports often comes with lower fares. For instance, if you’re traveling to Los Angeles, compare prices for flights into Burbank or Long Beach instead of LAX.

Hack #6: Use Airline Miles or Credit Card Points

Frequent flyer programs and travel credit cards can significantly reduce flight costs. Check your account balance for points that can be redeemed for flights. If you don’t have enough miles, consider combining points with cash to get a discount.

Hack #7: Book Separate One-Way Flights

Round-trip tickets aren’t always the cheapest option. Compare the cost of booking two one-way flights, especially if you’re traveling with different airlines. For example, fly to your destination with Airline A and return with Airline B for better deals.

Hack #8: Avoid Paying for Seat Selection

Airlines often charge extra for choosing your seat, but most allow free seat selection closer to the departure date. Skip the selection fee during booking and pick your seat during online check-in instead.

Hack #9: Pack Light to Avoid Baggage Fees

Stick to carry-on luggage to save on checked baggage fees, which can range from $25 to $75 per bag. Invest in a travel-friendly backpack or lightweight suitcase that fits most airline carry-on requirements.

Hack #10: Take Advantage of Budget Airlines

Low-cost carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and Ryanair often offer cheap fares. Keep an eye on their deals but read the fine print for add-ons like baggage fees or seat upgrades. A $30 ticket might turn into $100 if you’re not careful with extras.

Saving money on flights is easier than you think when you use the right strategies. Try these hacks on your next trip and see the difference they make. If you have a favorite trick to save on airfare, share it with us—we’d love to hear it!