Christmas time is always a great time, and that often includes traveling to see family and friends or taking advantage of the holidays for a vacation.​ But flying around Christmas time can be expensive.​ To get the best deals on flights during the holidays, take advantage of some of these secrets to finding a cheap flight.​

Comparison shop.​ By using comparison websites for flights like Skyscanner or Kayak, you can see the best prices from multiple airlines.​ It’s important to compare since many airlines can offer different deals, so we recommend shopping around to get the best deal.​

Check out budget airlines.​ Discount carriers like Allegiant Air, Frontier, and Spirit offer discounted seats on many routes compared to major airlines.​ If you’re willing to forgo some of the creature comforts you would have with a major airline (like free checked baggage or drinks) you may be able to find a great deal.​ It’s always important to read the fine print of the airline’s policy when booking budget airlines.​

Be flexible with dates.​ Another way to save money is to be flexible with your dates of travel.​ There can be significant differences in price depending on the day of the departure or return, and you may be able to save a good amount by taking an alternate date.​

Fly from a major airport.​ Major airports often have more routes, meaning more availability of seats and more opportunity for lower airfares.​ For example, flying from a major airport like JFK in New York is almost always cheaper than flying from JFK Long Island Airport.​ The best rate may not always be from your nearest airport, so do your research before you book.​

Sign up for email alerts.​ Signing up for email alerts can help you get notified for discounted seats or special deals from your favorite airlines.​ Not only is it a great way to get great deals, but it’ll help you be organized and keep tabs on the deals and destinations you’re interested in.​

Look for discounts

Take advantage of any discounts that may be available.​ Whether it’s student discounts, early-bird discounts, or discounts for members of frequent flyer programs, it’s always important to ask if any discounts are available when booking flights.​ Many airlines offer discounts or promo codes on their websites and social media, so make sure to take a look through the airlines’ channels.​

Flexibility is key when it comes to finding good deals on flights.​ If you’re willing to be flexible with where you’re flying to/from, the days you’re flying, and the airlines you’re flying with, then you may be able to find a great deal.​ Don’t forget to also compare, look for discounts, and sign up for email alerts to get the best rates possible.​

Travel with a companion

If flying with your family or friends, booking multiple tickets can often be cheaper than just booking one.​ By adding a second or third passenger to a flight, the total cost of the tickets may be lower than the cost of two tickets at full cost.​ This tip works best when traveling with a companion but might be something to consider when booking for yourself.​

Some airlines also offer special discounts for groups of passengers.​ These group discounts can offer even more savings than booking multiple tickets.​ If you know the dates and itinerary of your travel, you may be able to inquire about group discounts from your chosen airline.​

With group discounts, it pays to plan ahead.​


Airline representatives may be more willing to give discounts if your group has booked early, so don’t wait till the last minute to make plans.​ Booking far in advance can help you save more money.​

Be aware of airline policies

When booking flights, it helps to know the policies of the airlines that you’re flying with.​ Know the restrictions and re-booking fees of the airline so there are no surprises.​ Knowing the policy will also help you navigate any problems regarding flights delays, cancellations, or refunds.​

Be aware of any extras that you may have to pay for, such as baggage fees, seat selection, or meal selections.​ Knowing the extras ahead of time can help you avoid overspending.​ It’s important to plan and strategize before you book to get the best deal on flights.​

Additionally, some airlines offer bonus or loyalty programs tied to frequent flyer miles.​ Accruing miles with one airline can help you save money on future flights.​ If you’ve been loyal to an airline before, see if there are any discounts or rewards you can take advantage of.​

Think Outside the Box

If you’re taking a longer trip, there are other ways to get to your destination that don’t include flying.​ If you’re traveling within your country, look into taking a train ride or a bus ride.​ Trains and buses often take longer, but they can be a cost-effective way to travel, especially during the holidays.​

For international travels, there are cheaper ways to get around such as flying with two or more airlines, or more circuitous routes using budget airlines.​ Research your route to see if going with multiple airlines or making multiple stops is a feasible option.​ It might ultimately be the cheaper route.​

Booking during holidays can get expensive, so we recommend thinking outside the box when it comes to searching for flights.​ Being creative with routes and being open to different airlines can help you save money and time.​

Tips for Last Minute Travelers

For last minute travelers, the cost of flights can sky-rocket.​ Don’t lose hope just yet, though.​ Airlines may still be able to offer discounted rates for their last-minute seats.​ Give the airline a call and inquire if there are any special deals for last-minute bookers.​ While flights may end up being more expensive, talking to the airline directly may be able to get you a better deal compared to what you can find online.​

If you haven’t already, sign up for airline rewards programs and take advantage of any miles or rewards that your membership may offer you.​ Signing up for email alerts and newsletters can also help you stay informed about any promotions or discounts.​

You may also want to consider using booking apps such as Hopper or Expedia.​ These apps can help you find hidden deals or last-minute discounts by tracking the prices for flights and notifying you when prices are low.​ Taking advantage of any last-minute deals may be the way to go for last-minute travelers.​

FAQ

Q: What should I do if I find a better deal than the one I booked?

A: If you find a better deal than the one you booked, contact the airline for a refund or rebooking.​ Many airlines are willing to help out and may be able to refund your flight or switch you to a different flight.​

Q: What can I do to save more money on flights?

A: To save more money on flights, it helps to be flexible with your destination, dates, and airline.​ Comparing prices on multiple airlines is also helpful, as is being aware of any discounts, rewards programs, and airline promotions.​ For last-minute travelers, apps like Hopper or Expedia can help you find hidden deals.​