Booking flight tickets can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re trying to get the best deal, minimize layovers, or find a flight schedule that fits your plans. In 2024, with travel fully back in swing and a wide range of airlines and travel websites vying for your attention, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. But don’t worry! Whether you’re planning a vacation, visiting family, or traveling for business, this guide will walk you through the best ways to find and book flights, so you can save time, money, and effort.
1. Start with Price Comparison Tools
Price comparison websites are often the best place to begin your search for flights. These platforms aggregate flight prices from numerous airlines and online travel agencies (OTAs), allowing you to compare deals at a glance. Some of the most popular and user-friendly flight comparison sites include:
- Google Flights: This is one of the most reliable and versatile search engines. It allows you to filter by a range of criteria (price, airline, number of stops, times) and even shows price trends over time.
- Skyscanner: Known for its comprehensive search function, Skyscanner lets you explore flexible dates, multiple airports, and even open-ended destinations if you’re not sure where you want to go.
- Kayak: Kayak compares prices across airlines and OTAs, including lesser-known travel agents, so you can find hidden deals.
These platforms often offer insights into pricing trends, such as whether prices are likely to increase or drop in the coming weeks, based on historical data. Google Flights even lets you monitor flight prices and sends alerts when fares drop. Use this feature when you’re planning ahead and don’t need to book right away.
2. Use Airline Direct Websites for Deals
Once you’ve compared prices across different platforms, it’s often worth checking the airline’s direct website. Airlines like Delta, Emirates, or Southwest sometimes offer deals exclusive to their websites, not displayed on comparison tools.
Many airlines also offer their loyalty members exclusive promotions or waive fees for booking directly. In some cases, you might receive a free checked bag or be eligible for upgrades. For frequent flyers, booking directly with airlines can help you accumulate miles for future discounts and rewards.
3. Book in Advance, but Not Too Early
The timing of your booking can significantly impact the price you pay for flights. While it’s generally true that booking early can save money, there’s a sweet spot for purchasing tickets. Booking too far in advance can be just as costly as booking too late.
According to travel industry studies, the best time to book domestic flights is typically 1-3 months before your travel dates, and for international flights, aim for 2-8 months in advance. For peak travel seasons (holidays, summer), it’s smart to book a little earlier, but last-minute deals can sometimes pop up, especially on lesser-traveled routes.
A helpful tool is Google Flights’ Price Graph, which allows you to see the variation in flight prices over a span of months, helping you determine the best time to book.
4. Be Flexible with Dates and Airports
One of the best ways to score cheaper flights is to be flexible with your travel dates and airports. Traveling mid-week, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tends to be cheaper, as these days are less in demand. Similarly, flying on a Saturday or at less convenient hours (e.g., early morning or red-eye flights) can result in savings.
If you’re in a region with multiple airports, check for flights departing from each one. For example, travelers in New York City have the option of flying out of JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark. Similarly, Los Angeles travelers can fly from LAX, Burbank, or Long Beach. Often, smaller or secondary airports have cheaper fares, so it’s worth exploring alternatives.
5. Use Flight Deals and Alerts
Flight deals are a great way to find significantly discounted airfare. Many websites specialize in finding mistake fares, flash sales, or other incredible deals on flights. These sites often find prices that are considerably lower than standard fares, though they can disappear quickly, so it’s important to act fast.
Here are some of the top deal-finding platforms:
- Scott’s Cheap Flights: Known for curating flight deals, Scott’s Cheap Flights sends members email alerts for mistake fares and discounted international flights.
- Airfarewatchdog: This platform monitors fare fluctuations and sends alerts when prices drop for specific routes.
- Hopper: Hopper provides predictions for future price drops or hikes and alerts users when they should book their flight to get the best price.
Subscribing to a few of these platforms ensures you won’t miss out on any bargains. Additionally, set price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner for your preferred routes to get notified when prices drop.
6. Consider Alternative Airlines
While many travelers instinctively head for major airlines, low-cost carriers like Spirit Airlines, Ryanair, Frontier, and EasyJet often offer significantly lower base fares. However, these airlines usually charge for extras like seat selection, checked bags, and even carry-on luggage, so it’s essential to read the fine print before booking. If you’re traveling light and don’t mind fewer amenities, budget airlines can provide unbeatable deals.
For international travel, consider alternative or regional carriers that may not show up in traditional search engines. Airlines like AirAsia, Jetstar, or Nok Air offer budget fares throughout Asia, while Vueling and Ryanair dominate Europe’s budget market.
7. Check for Student, Senior, or Group Discounts
If you’re a student, teacher, or under 26, platforms like StudentUniverse and STA Travel offer discounted rates. These sites collaborate with airlines to provide lower-priced tickets for youth travelers.
Senior travelers may also qualify for reduced fares through certain airlines. Some carriers offer senior discounts, while others partner with organizations like AARP to provide exclusive benefits.
When traveling in large groups, you can also benefit from group discounts. Many airlines offer reduced rates for group bookings (often ten or more passengers). Be sure to inquire with airlines directly to explore this option.
8. Don’t Overlook Travel Insurance
With the uncertainties surrounding travel today—whether due to weather disruptions, strikes, or health-related cancellations—consider purchasing travel insurance, especially for long-distance or international flights. Some credit cards provide travel insurance as part of their perks, but if not, buying a policy can offer peace of mind in case your trip is delayed or canceled.
Many airlines and travel agencies offer trip protection plans when you book, but these tend to be more expensive than policies you can buy independently. Comparison websites like InsureMyTrip let you compare travel insurance providers to find the best deal.
9. Look for Package Deals
If you’re planning an all-inclusive vacation, consider booking your flight and hotel together. Websites like Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz often provide discounts for bundling flight and accommodation. Many airlines also offer package deals, especially for popular vacation destinations.
This strategy not only simplifies the booking process but can result in significant savings. Just ensure that the hotel and flight combination fits your preferences and needs.
10. Leverage Credit Card and Loyalty Programs
Many airlines and travel brands offer loyalty programs where you can earn points for future flights, seat upgrades, or other perks. Additionally, many travel credit cards (such as Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Platinum, or Capital One Venture Rewards) offer generous points or cashback on airfare purchases.
If you frequently fly with the same airline, joining their rewards program can lead to discounted fares, free baggage, and even first-class upgrades over time. Points or miles can often be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, or other travel-related expenses.
Some credit cards also come with benefits like free travel insurance, airport lounge access, and no foreign transaction fees—making them an excellent companion for frequent travelers.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best flight deals in 2024 requires a combination of patience, strategy, and the right tools. By using price comparison websites, setting alerts for deals, being flexible with your travel dates, and leveraging credit card rewards and loyalty programs, you can ensure you get the best price for your next flight. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone planning a long-awaited vacation, the tips in this guide will help you navigate the sea of options and make your travel experience smoother and more affordable. Happy flying.