Fly-by-night Deals: Making Cheap Flights Possible

Flying can be a costly affair.​ With rising airfares in the US, it’s tough to find a price that seems reasonable.​ But if you’re looking for cheap flights, you have some options available.​ Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your next vacation.​

To start, research online.​ Sites like Expedia and Orbitz provide a wealth of information, making it easy to compare prices.​ Many of these sites also offer bonus points or discounts when you book through them, so it’s always worthwhile to check.​

In addition to researching online, there are many resources on the ground that might be of help.​ Airlines often offer discounts when you buy in-person, so consider popping into your local airport or ticket office and seeing what sort of offers they have available.​

It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for special promotions.​ Airlines occasionally host flash sales or have discounts specific to certain departure points.​ Sign up for airline newsletters or follow them on social media to stay in the know.​

Finding cheap flights doesn’t have to be a difficult task.​ Sometimes, it just takes a bit of strategic planning and research.​ So the next time you’re looking to take flight, keep these tips in mind and you might be able to find a great deal.​

Flexible Dates = Big Savings

Price fluctuations are a part of airline travel, but there are a few ways to maximize savings when booking airfare.​ One of the most effective tactics is to be flexible with your dates.​ For example, if you’re willing to travel mid-week, you can often snag airfares that are substantially lower than the weekend rates.​

The same is true if you’re willing to fly in the morning or late in the evening.​ By shifting your schedule a bit, you could find yourself enjoying great savings.​ Plus, who doesn’t love an extra day of exploration or relaxation?

On top of that, understand that some airports are more expensive than others.​ If you’re headed to San Francisco for a quick getaway, you might find that airfares are lower if you fly into Oakland instead.​ Of course, you should factor in the cost of getting from the airport to your destination, but sometimes, the extra transit cost is still cheaper than the airfare.​

Finally, if you’re in the market for a last-minute flight, try looking up fares after midnight.​ Airlines reset their fares at the start of each day so, even if a flight is more expensive during the day, things could change as the night progresses.​

Budget Airlines: Reliable and Stress Free?

One of the easiest ways to score a great airfare is to take advantage of discount airlines.​ These smaller carriers provide a reliable service at a fraction of the cost of traditional airlines.​ That is not to say that they don’t come with their own set of rules and restrictions.​

For instance, budget airlines often require you to check luggage at an additional cost, and their seats are often narrower than those on full-service carriers.​ In addition, they might not serve in-flight meals, or they could charge a fee for basic amenities such as a blanket or pillow.​

Before you book a flight with a budget airline, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully.​ Understand the carrier’s policy for cancellations and rescheduling, as well as their policies regarding food and beverage service.​


That way, you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for and will be in a better position to get the most out of your travel experience.​

Most significantly, don’t be afraid to ask questions.​ If you’ve read the small-print and still don’t feel confident about a certain policy, don’t hesitate to reach out to the airline.​ Most customer service representatives are happy to provide you with additional information.​

Paying for Comfort: Consider Upgrading Your Seats

Flying can be tedious, so if you’re looking for some extra comfort in the air, it might be worth it to shell out a bit extra.​ Some airlines offer upgraded seating options—in some cases, it’s as little as an extra $20 or $30, but that small price can make a world of difference.​

Typically, if you choose to upgrade your seating, you’ll get more legroom and a bit of additional freedom to recline your seat.​ In many cases, upgraded seats are also located in a more quiet area of the plane, so you’ll be able to enjoy a peaceful journey.​

You can usually upgrade your seating when you purchase your tickets or while you’re boarding.​ Be sure to check with your airline to find out what their policies are.​ And, if you’re a frequent flyer, it might be worthwhile to join a loyalty program and take advantage of any additional benefits.​

Travel Credit Cards: Making Cheap Flights Even Cheaper

Credit cards are a great way to save when it comes to travel.​ Many cards offer bonus points or miles that you can redeem for discounts.​ Some cards also come with special perks, such as free checked bags and priority boarding.​

When selecting a card, it helps to know exactly how you plan on using it.​ If you’re a frequent flyer, in most cases, you’ll want to prioritize reward miles.​ On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more general credit card, look at cards that offer cashback or discounts with popular retailers.​

If you’re unsure what card might be right for you, you might consider speaking with a financial advisor.​ They can help you compare and contrast different cards, ensuring that you get the one that fits your needs.​ And, if you have questions, be sure to reach out to the customer service department.​ They can provide you with additional information that can help you make an informed choice.​

Secure More Value with Package Deals

In addition to researching flights, it’s also a good idea to look into package deals.​ These deals often combine airfare and lodging which makes saving even easier.​ Obviously, you should always read the terms to make sure that you’re getting the best deal possible.​

Additionally, many airlines offer special discounts for military personnel and seniors.​ If you’re in one of these groups, be sure to look for any special offers that might be available.​ A few extra minutes of research can make a huge difference in your travel budget.​

When it comes to finding the perfect flight, be sure to set realistic expectations.​ No matter what type of traveler you are, you should be able to find a solution that fits your needs.​ By following the tips mentioned above, you’ll be better equipped to take flight without breaking the bank.​

FAQs: Getting the Most out of Discount Airlines

What Are Some Tips to Finding Low Airfares?

Flexible dates, researching online, taking advantage of budget airlines, searching after midnight and signing up for airline newsletters are all great ways to find great airfare deals.​

Can I Upgrade My Seats?

Most airlines allow passengers to upgrade their seats.​ This usually comes at a price, but it can be worthwhile for the extra bit of comfort.​

Are Package Deals Actually Worth It?

Package deals are usually a great way to save money, but it’s always important to read the fine print.​ Be sure to understand what is included and confirm that it’s actually a good deal.​

Do Credit Cards Offer Any Benefits?

Most travel reward credit cards offer bonus points that can be redeemed for discounts and other perks.​ Selecting the right card is key, so be sure to research the different offers available.​