How to Find Cheap Flights: 9 Tips That Actually Work

Flight prices can change dramatically from one day to the next. A few smart habits can save you a lot, without spending hours searching.

1. Be flexible with dates

Use the calendar or "flexible dates" view on flight search sites. Flying a day earlier or later, or midweek, is often cheaper.

2. Set price alerts

Most flight comparison sites let you track a route and get an email when prices drop. This saves you checking every day.

3. Compare nearby airports

Many cities have more than one airport. Smaller or secondary airports are often served by budget airlines.

4. Book at the right time

There's no perfect magic day, but for many routes, booking a couple of months ahead tends to beat last-minute prices. For busy holiday periods, book earlier.

5. Check the airline's own website

After finding a good deal on a comparison site, check the airline's website. Sometimes it's the same price with better flexibility.

6. Consider one-way tickets

Two one-way tickets on different airlines can sometimes be cheaper than a return.

7. Travel light

If you can fit everything into hand luggage, you'll often avoid checked bag fees.

8. Be open to destinations

Some search tools let you search "everywhere" from your home airport to see the cheapest places to go.

9. Join loyalty programmes

Free airline and alliance memberships can earn points for future flights and sometimes unlock member-only fares.

Combine a few of these tips and you'll rarely pay full price again.