Planning on booking a flight, but don’t want to break the bank? Read this article for the top seven money-saving tips when purchasing flight tickets.​ With the right tactics, you can snag a great deal that will let you explore the world and stay within your budget.​

Tip #1: Always book flights in advance.​

Book your tickets well in advance to get the cheapest flights.​ When airlines anticipate a certain number of tickets to be sold over a specific date range, they are able to adjust their prices accordingly and offer deals.​ By booking ahead of time, you can lock in the lowest price.​

Tip #2: Be flexible with your departure and return date.​

It pays to be flexible when it comes to your travel dates.​ Look around for the best deals and compare prices to other days to see if you can find something more affordable.​ You may even find that travelling on a Tuesday or Wednesday is much cheaper than travelling on a weekend.​

Tip #3: Utilize the best technology.​

Technology has advanced to make flight booking much easier.​ There are numerous flight search engines online that allow you to compare multiple airlines simultaneously.​ This way, you can quickly find which flight works the best for your schedule and your budget.​

Tip #4: Look for last-minute flight deals.​

Surprisingly, some airlines offer last-minute discounts, so it’s worth it to explore this option.​ For those who don’t mind a little spontaneity in their travels, taking advantage of last-minute flight deals may be the way to go.​

Tip #5: Use discount websites.​

Purchasing flights from discount websites such as Airfarewatchdog or Skyscanner can often mean major savings.​ The prices vary depending on the airline, so it’s worth looking around to get the best deal.​

Tip #6: Use loyalty points.​

If you fly on a regular basis with a certain airline, it’s worth it to sign up for their loyalty program.​ The loyalty program rewards frequent fliers with points that can be used for discounts and upgrades.​

Tip #7: Take advantage of the airline’s sales.​

Airlines are always offering deals during certain times of the year.​ Be sure to look out for any airport- or airline-specific offers as soon as they come available.​ You may be able to acquire free tickets or extra discounts.​

Travel Credit Card Benefits

If you’re an avid traveler, getting a travel credit card can be a great money-saving move.​ Many airlines, hotels, and other travel service providers partner with friends companies to offer heavily discounted airfare, hotel stays, car rentals, and more.​ You can even get discounts on dining and attractions simply by using your travel credit card when making the purchase.​

In addition, many of these same credit cards also give rewards points each time you make a purchase.​ These points can then be redeemed for discounts on future travel-related expenses.​ If you find yourself traveling often, a travel credit card can be the ideal way to save money while enjoying the perks of the frequent flyer life.​

Another bonus of a travel credit card is that it can give you rental car insurance coverage when you rent a car on your travels.​ This way, you don’t have to worry about purchasing additional coverage when your car rental agreement is presented to you.​ Depending on where you’re traveling, this benefit alone can be a great money-saver.​

Finally, many travel credit cards offer access to airport lounges.​ This is great for those who want a little peace and quiet before catching their flight.​ Airport lounges typically offer complimentary drinks, snacks, and other amenities that often come at added cost.​ This feature can be especially useful when traveling with kids who need entertainment while waiting for a flight.​

Cash Back Opportunities

Another way to save money on a flight is to take advantage of cash back programs offered by certain credit cards.​ Many retailers, airline, and hotel loyalty programs offer cash back when you make a purchase with their cards.​ This can add up to significant savings over time.​

In addition, many banks and credit card companies offer direct cash back rewards.​ These rewards are paid in the form of cash or points that can be redeemed for statement credits or a statement credit balance.​ With this type of loyalty program, you can save money on any purchase you make, including those related to travel.​

Another great cash-saving option is to book flights with airline partners.​ Many airlines offer discounted fares when you book a round-trip ticket with another airline.​


This can be a great way to save money, especially if you plan to fly to multiple destinations during your travels.​

Finally, some credit cards offer what is called “open fare” pricing.​ This is when the card issuer will waive certain fees for certain flights or even offer discounts on the ticket price itself.​ This means that you can save a lot of money on airfare if you’re able to take advantage of these offers.​

Use Travel Rewards Programs

By taking advantage of reward programs and loyalty programs, you can reduce the cost of your flights significantly.​ A lot of airlines offer loyalty programs that offer special perks and rewards, such as points, free flights, or discounts on certain flights.​ Some airlines even offer discounted fares if you book flights with certain partners, or if you use your airline’s credit card.​

In addition, many hotels offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or discounts on your stay.​ These can add up to substantial savings if you travel often and stay in the same hotel chain.​ By taking advantage of these rewards programs, you can save a ton on your next vacation.​

Another great way to save money on flights is to use consolidator fares.​ These are discounted fares that are usually acquired through travel agents or online travel sites such as Expedia or Orbitz.​ It’s a great way to save money if you can be flexible with your travel dates.​

Finally, you can also look into specialty discounts offered through certain organizations or groups.​ For example, some employers have travel discounts programs in place.​ By taking advantage of these programs, you can save big on your flights.​

Book During The Right Time

It pays to research travel times and book during slow periods.​ If you’re able to be flexible with your travel dates, then you may be able to save big on your flight.​ Some airlines and hotels offer seasonal discounts too, so it may be worth checking out around certain holidays.​

Another thing to consider is the time of day.​ For instance, evening flights are often cheaper than flights during the day, as airlines are trying to fill the remaining seats.​ Similarly, weekend flights can offer cheaper fares too, since airlines tend to be less busy during those days.​

In addition, it’s worth checking out the prices of different airports.​ Some airports near major cities may charge more for flights because of their location and the competition among airlines.​ If you look for flights departing from nearby airports, you may be able to find cheaper options.​

Finally, if you’re not able to book during off-peak travel periods, you can still save money by booking your flights in advance.​ For example, booking your tickets at least two weeks ahead of time can result in substantial savings.​

Cancel For Free?

It’s a no-brainer that if you’re not planning on travelling, then you should cancel your flight if possible.​ However, many airlines will charge you a cancellation fee, if you choose to do so.​ Before cancelling, make sure you check your airline’s policies; some airlines offer free cancellations if you cancel within a certain period of time.​

Similarly, some airlines offer rebooking services.​ This means that you’ll be able to use your same flights but with a different schedule.​ There may be a rebooking fee involved, but this is usually much cheaper than repurchasing an entirely new ticket.​

Finally, if you’re unable to change or cancel your tickets, then you may be able to request a refund.​ Refunds are not always available, but if you can demonstrate a valid and legitimate reason for requesting one, then you may be able to get some of your money back.​

FAQ

Q: What are the benefits of using a travel credit card?

A: Using a travel credit card can provide major savings on flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.​ You can also earn rewards points that can be used for discounts and upgrades, as well as access to airport lounges.​ In addition, some travel credit cards provide rental car insurance for rentals.​

Q: How can I save money when booking a flight?

A: There are a few ways to save money when booking a flight.​ Look for flights in advance and be flexible with your travel dates.​ Use discount websites like Airfarewatchdog or Skyscanner to compare prices.​ Take advantage of loyalty programs and cash back opportunities, and use travel rewards programs.​

Q: What is the difference between a cancellation fee and a rebooking fee?

A: Cancellation fees are typically incurred when you cancel your ticket before the flight, while rebooking fees are incurred when you change the date or time of your ticket.​ Rebooking fees are usually much lower than cancellation fees.​