Mastering How to Get Cheap Flights: Reddit’s Top Tips Unveiled
Are you tired of spending a fortune on flights? Look no further! Reddit is here to help you find the best deals and save big on your travel expenses. In this article, we will dive into the world of finding cheap flights with the help of Reddit. Discover the top tips shared by flight-hacker Jack Sheldon during a Reddit AMA and learn how to save on your next travel adventure.
Key Takeaways:
- Be flexible with your travel plans to increase your chances of finding cheaper flights
- Search for vague continent flights instead of specific destinations to find better deals
- Clear your browser cookies before searching to avoid increased prices based on search history
- Consider booking each leg of your journey separately to mix and match airlines for the best deals
- Book your flights 6-12 weeks in advance for better prices
Who is Jack Sheldon?
Meet Jack Sheldon, the Reddit user who has mastered the art of finding cheap flights and sharing his knowledge with the community. As a self-proclaimed flight-hacker, Jack has gained popularity on Reddit for his ability to uncover mistake fares and inexpensive flight deals. He has become known for using Google’s ‘back end matrix’ to find hidden discounts and offers, helping other Reddit users find affordable flights.
Using Google’s ‘back end matrix’ for discounted fares
One of the strategies Jack Sheldon uses to find cheap flights is by tapping into Google’s ‘back end matrix’, a powerful tool that uncovers discounted fares. By utilizing this tool, Jack has been able to uncover hidden deals and mistake fares that can save travelers a significant amount of money.
Jack Sheldon:
“I’ve found flights from Edinburgh to the Canary Islands for just £31 and from London to Tokyo for only £272. These amazing finds demonstrate the potential savings that can be achieved by leveraging the ‘back end matrix’.”
Sharing insider tips for cheaper airfare
Throughout his Reddit AMA, Jack Sheldon shared several insider tips for finding discount airfare. One of his key recommendations is to be flexible with your travel plans. By being open to different dates, destinations, and even airports, you increase your chances of finding cheaper flights. Additionally, Jack suggests searching for vague continent flights instead of specific destinations, as this can often lead to better deals.
Another tip Jack offers is to clear your browser cookies before searching for flights. Airlines often track your search history and may increase prices if they see repeated searches for the same route. By clearing your cookies, you start with a fresh search and potentially find cheaper prices.
Jack Sheldon also recommends booking each leg of your journey separately for flights with connections. This way, you have the flexibility to mix and match airlines to find the best deals and potentially save money.
Maximizing savings with fare alerts and local sites
Jack Sheldon advises signing up for fare alerts on websites like Skyscanner. By doing so, you’ll receive notifications when prices drop for your desired destinations, allowing you to snatch up the best flight deals.
Furthermore, Jack recommends checking local websites of foreign airlines for cheaper prices. Sometimes, these airlines offer better deals that may not be available on major travel search engines. By exploring these options, you can potentially save even more on your airfare.
| Jack Sheldon’s Tips for Cheap Flights: |
|---|
| Be flexible with your travel plans |
| Search for vague continent flights |
| Clear cookies before searching |
| Book each leg of the journey separately |
| Book 6-12 weeks in advance |
| Sign up for fare alerts |
| Check local sites for foreign airlines |
With Jack Sheldon’s insights and tips, travelers can now take advantage of the knowledge shared on Reddit to find cheap flights and make their travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank.
Flexibility is Key
Embrace flexibility and open up a world of affordable travel possibilities by adjusting your travel plans to fit the best flight deals available. According to flight-hacker Jack Sheldon, being open to different dates, destinations, and even airports can significantly increase your chances of finding cheaper flights. By breaking free from rigid itineraries, you can potentially save big on your next adventure.
Be Open to Different Dates
One of the key tips shared by Jack Sheldon is to have flexibility with your travel dates. By considering alternative departure and return dates, you can take advantage of lower fares. Airlines often offer discounted prices for flights on less popular travel days, such as midweek or early morning flights. Being open to adjusting your schedule can lead to significant savings.
Explore Alternative Destinations
Another way to find cheap flights is to be open to different destinations. Instead of being fixed on a specific city or country, consider exploring alternative locations within the same region. For example, if you’re interested in visiting Europe, instead of searching for flights to Paris, broaden your search to include other cities like Barcelona, Rome, or Prague. This flexibility can help you find better deals and potentially discover new and exciting destinations.
Consider Nearby Airports
In addition to being flexible with dates and destinations, considering nearby airports can also help you score cheap flights. Many major cities have multiple airports, and flying into or out of a smaller, less popular airport can often result in lower fares. Before booking your flight, check if there are any alternative airports within a reasonable distance from your desired destination. Expanding your search can lead to significant savings and open up more travel options.
| Flight Tip | Summary |
|---|---|
| Be flexible with travel dates | Consider flying on less popular travel days for discounted prices. |
| Explore alternative destinations | Expand your search to include nearby cities or countries within the same region. |
| Consider nearby airports | Check for alternative airports within a reasonable distance from your desired destination. |
Searching for Vague Continent Flights
Take advantage of the ambiguity and search for flights to entire continents rather than individual cities to uncover hidden flight discounts. By broadening your search, you open up a world of possibilities and increase your chances of finding cheaper flights. Instead of specifying a particular destination, consider exploring options within a region or continent.
When searching for vague continent flights, use online travel search engines and airline websites that offer flexible destination options. This allows you to compare prices and discover lesser-known routes that may not be readily available when searching for specific cities. Keep in mind that certain continents, such as Europe or Asia, have well-connected airports, making it easier to find affordable flights within the region.
Furthermore, being open to different airports within a continent can lead to significant savings. Consider flying into a nearby airport and exploring alternative transportation options to reach your final destination. Sometimes, smaller airports or those located in neighboring cities offer lower fares due to less demand or competition.
Search Tips for Vague Continent Flights:
- Use travel search engines and airline websites that allow flexible destination options
- Compare prices for different airports within a continent
- Consider nearby airports and alternative transportation options
By following these search tips and embracing the flexibility offered by vague continent flights, you can uncover hidden flight discounts and save money on your next adventure. Remember to keep an open mind, explore different options, and be patient in your search. Happy travels!
| Advantages of Searching for Vague Continent Flights | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Increased chances of finding cheaper flights | May require additional planning or transportation arrangements |
| Opportunity to discover lesser-known routes and destinations | Potential for longer travel times |
| Ability to compare prices and choose the most affordable option | Flexibility and openness to different airports or cities |
Clear Cookies Before Searching
Don’t let airlines track your search history! Clear your cookies before searching for flights to ensure you get the best possible prices. Airlines often use cookies to monitor your search activity and may raise prices if they see repeated searches for the same route. By clearing your cookies, you start each search with a clean slate, increasing your chances of finding cheaper fares.
In addition to protecting your privacy, clearing your cookies can also help you take advantage of dynamic pricing. Websites often use cookies to show higher prices based on your previous search behavior. By starting fresh each time you search, you can avoid these inflated prices and find the best deals available.
Clearing your cookies is easy. Simply go to your browser settings and clear your browsing history and cookies. Alternatively, you can use the private browsing mode offered by most browsers, which automatically clears cookies and search history at the end of each session. Keep in mind that you may need to log back into websites after clearing your cookies, so make sure you have your account information handy.
| Benefits of Clearing Cookies: |
|---|
| Prevents airlines from tracking your search history |
| Ensures you start each search with a clean slate |
| Helps you avoid inflated prices based on previous search behavior |
| Can be done easily through browser settings or private browsing mode |
Clearing your cookies is just one of the many flight booking strategies and budget travel hacks shared by flight-hacker Jack Sheldon. By following his tips and utilizing these strategies, you can maximize your chances of finding cheap flights and save money on your travel adventures.
Booking Each Journey Separately
Maximize your savings by booking each leg of your journey separately, allowing you to explore different airlines and uncover hidden discounts. By breaking down your trip into individual segments, you have the flexibility to mix and match airlines, take advantage of lower fares, and potentially save money on your overall travel expenses.
When booking each journey separately, you have the freedom to choose the most cost-effective options for each leg. This means you can search for the best deals on flights to your destination, as well as on return flights. It also allows you to consider alternative routes, airports, and layovers, which can often lead to significant savings.
Additionally, booking each leg of your trip separately can help you take advantage of any special promotions or discounts offered by different airlines. By carefully comparing prices and options for each segment, you can uncover hidden deals and maximize your savings. Just be sure to take note of any baggage or transfer requirements, as these may vary depending on the airlines you choose.
So, if you’re looking to find the best flight deals and save money on your next journey, consider booking each leg of your trip separately. With the flexibility to explore different airlines and uncover hidden discounts, you’ll be well on your way to finding cheap flights and enjoying your travel adventures without breaking the bank.
Booking 6-12 Weeks in Advance
Plan ahead and book your flights 6-12 weeks in advance to take advantage of discounted seats and save on your air travel expenses. According to flight-hacker Jack Sheldon, this timeframe allows airlines to release discounted fares, providing you with the opportunity to secure the best deals. By booking in advance, you can increase your chances of finding cheaper prices and avoid last-minute price hikes.
While it’s not always possible to plan your trips months in advance, keeping this strategy in mind can lead to significant savings. By being proactive and booking ahead, you give yourself more time to research and compare prices, ensuring that you find the most budget-friendly options for your travel.
Remember, the earlier you book, the greater your chances of finding cheap flights. So, if you have a destination in mind, mark your calendar and start searching for tickets at least 6-12 weeks before your desired departure date.
Benefits of Booking in Advance:
- Access to discounted fares
- More time to compare prices
- Increased availability of preferred seats and flights
- Opportunity to plan and budget for other travel expenses
- Peace of mind knowing your flights are secured
Considerations When Booking in Advance:
While booking in advance has its advantages, it’s important to be aware of a few considerations. Flight prices are not guaranteed to decrease the closer you get to your departure date. Occasionally, airlines may release last-minute deals, but this is not a guarantee. Additionally, certain routes and airlines may have different booking patterns, so it’s essential to research the specific market you’re interested in.
Moreover, flight prices can also fluctuate depending on seasons, holidays, and other external factors. It’s important to be flexible with your travel dates and be prepared to adjust your plans if needed. By staying open to alternative dates and airports, you can maximize your chances of finding the most affordable flights.
Summary:
Booking your flights 6-12 weeks in advance is a valuable strategy for finding cheap airfares. By planning ahead and taking advantage of discounted seats, you can save money on your travel expenses. Remember to stay flexible with your dates and be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances. With the right approach, you can secure the best deals and embark on your dream trip while staying within your budget.
Signing Up for Fare Alerts
Stay in the know and never miss out on a great flight deal by signing up for fare alerts on popular travel websites. Jack Sheldon, the renowned flight-hacker, recommends this strategy as one of his top cheap flight tips. By signing up, you’ll receive notifications whenever prices drop for your desired destinations, giving you the opportunity to snatch up the best flight deals.
According to Sheldon, one of the key benefits of fare alerts is that they save you time and effort. Instead of constantly checking multiple websites for price changes, the alerts do the work for you. You can customize your alerts based on specific travel dates, destinations, and even airline preferences, ensuring that you receive relevant and timely information.
When signing up for fare alerts, be sure to choose reputable travel websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights. These platforms have advanced search capabilities and access to a wide range of airlines, ensuring that you’ll be notified of the best deals available. Remember to check your inbox regularly and act quickly when you receive an alert, as flight prices can fluctuate rapidly.
Table: Pros and Cons of Fare Alerts
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
“Signing up for fare alerts can be a game-changer when it comes to finding cheap flights. It keeps you informed and gives you the upper hand in grabbing those amazing deals before they’re gone.” – Jack Sheldon
Checking Local Sites for Foreign Airlines
Expand your search and explore local websites of foreign airlines to find exclusive discounts and save on your air travel expenses. Jack Sheldon, the flight-hacker, recommends this tip as a way to uncover hidden deals that may not be available on major travel search engines.
When searching for flights, it’s worth checking the websites of foreign airlines that operate in your desired destination. These airlines often offer competitive prices and promotions targeted at local residents. By accessing their websites directly, you have a higher chance of finding discounted fares and saving money on your air travel.
One advantage of booking through local sites is the opportunity to take advantage of regional promotions and special offers. Foreign airlines may offer discounted fares as part of marketing campaigns or to attract specific target markets. By being proactive and exploring these options, you can maximize your chances of finding the best deals.
| Airline | Discounted Route | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Example Airlines | London to Paris | $100 |
| Sample Airways | New York to Tokyo | $500 |
| International Flights | Los Angeles to Sydney | $800 |
By using this strategy, you can potentially unlock exclusive discounts and access competitive fares that may not be available through traditional online travel agencies. Keep in mind that language barriers and differing payment options may arise when booking through foreign websites, so it’s essential to be prepared and patient during the process.
Next time you’re searching for cheap flights, don’t limit yourself to well-known travel websites. Check out local sites of foreign airlines and let the possibilities for savings take flight.
Unveiling Jack Sheldon’s Amazing Finds
Get inspired by Jack Sheldon’s amazing flight finds, like flights from Edinburgh to the Canary Islands for only £31, and start planning your own budget-friendly travel adventures. Jack’s ability to uncover incredible deals has helped countless Reddit users save money and explore new destinations. Here are some of his remarkable discoveries:
“I found a flight from London to Tokyo for only £272. That’s a steal considering the distance and the popular tourist destination Tokyo is! It just goes to show that with the right strategies, you can find affordable flights to even the most sought-after places.”
In addition to these jaw-dropping deals, Jack also recommends keeping an eye out for other discounted fares and promotions. By combining his tips with your own travel preferences, you can uncover hidden gems and embark on unforgettable journeys without breaking the bank.
Table: Jack Sheldon’s Amazing Flight Finds
| Route | Price |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh to the Canary Islands | £31 |
| London to Tokyo | £272 |
As you can see, the potential savings are substantial. By following Jack Sheldon’s advice and staying vigilant for flight deals, you can make your travel dreams a reality without straining your wallet. So go ahead, start planning your next adventure, and let the excitement of affordable travel take flight!
Discovering Sri Lanka for Cheap Rates
Uncover the hidden gem of Sri Lanka, a destination that offers both affordability and unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re seeking stunning beaches, lush tea plantations, or ancient cultural sites, Sri Lanka has it all, and at a fraction of the cost compared to other popular tourist destinations.
Not only does Sri Lanka offer affordable air travel, but the cost of living within the country is also budget-friendly. Accommodations range from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts, allowing travelers to choose an option that suits their preferences and wallet. Moreover, local transportation, such as buses and trains, are incredibly affordable, making it easy to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities without breaking the bank.
In addition to the economic advantages, Sri Lanka offers an array of unique experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. From encountering elephants in national parks to exploring ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress, there is no shortage of remarkable sights to discover. Furthermore, the country’s rich culinary traditions, which include mouthwatering curries, aromatic teas, and tropical fruits, will delight your taste buds without denting your travel budget.
Experience Sri Lanka’s Warm Hospitality
One of the highlights of visiting Sri Lanka is the warm and welcoming nature of its people. Sri Lankans are renowned for their hospitality and genuine kindness towards tourists, making your travel experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re staying in a family-run guesthouse or engaging with locals during your exploration, the friendly locals will make you feel right at home.
| Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka | Why Sri Lanka is Affordable |
|---|---|
| Stunning beaches | Budget-friendly accommodations |
| Rich cultural heritage | Affordable local transportation |
| Abundant wildlife | Reasonable cost of living |
| Scenic tea plantations | Delicious and affordable local cuisine |
In conclusion, if you’re looking to travel on a budget without compromising on incredible experiences, Sri Lanka is the perfect destination. With its affordable air travel, reasonable cost of living, and a multitude of attractions, this tropical paradise offers a unique and unforgettable adventure that won’t drain your bank account.
Exploring More Budget Travel Hacks
Take your budget travel game to the next level with additional hacks and strategies that will help you find affordable flights and make the most of your travel budget. In addition to the tips shared by flight-hacker Jack Sheldon, there are many other tricks you can employ to score great deals on flights.
One handy strategy is to consider alternative airports. Flying into or out of smaller airports nearby can often result in cheaper fares. Not only do these airports tend to have fewer fees and taxes, but they may also have less demand, leading to lower prices.
Table 1: Alternative Airports
| City | Primary Airport | Alternative Airport |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | JFK | Newark (EWR) |
| London | Heathrow (LHR) | Gatwick (LGW) |
| Los Angeles | LAX | Long Beach (LGB) |
Another useful hack is to be open to flying with budget airlines. These airlines often offer lower fares compared to major carriers. While you may have to sacrifice some amenities, the savings can be substantial. Just make sure to carefully read the airline’s policies and fees to avoid any unexpected charges.
Lastly, consider booking flights during off-peak seasons. Traveling during popular holidays or peak vacation times can be expensive, so aim for shoulder seasons or less busy periods. Not only will you save money on flights, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and a more relaxed travel experience.
With these additional budget travel hacks, you’ll be well-equipped to find affordable flights and stretch your travel budget further. Combine these strategies with the tips shared by Jack Sheldon and unlock a world of travel possibilities without breaking the bank.
Summary of Reddit’s Top Tips
To wrap it all up, let’s review the top tips shared by Reddit users, which will help you master the art of getting cheap flights and save on your travel expenses.
1. Be Flexible
Flexibility is key when it comes to finding cheap flights. Consider being open to different travel dates, destinations, and even airports. By keeping your options open, you increase your chances of discovering better deals.
2. Search for Vague Continent Flights
Instead of searching for specific destinations, try searching for flights to entire regions or continents. This can often lead to better deals as you broaden your scope and allow for more options.
3. Clear Cookies Before Searching
Clearing your browser cookies before conducting flight searches can help you avoid dynamic pricing. Airlines track your search history, and repeated searches for the same route can result in increased prices. Clearing your cookies helps ensure that you’re seeing the most accurate and affordable fares.
4. Book Each Journey Separately
When booking flights with connections, consider booking each leg of the journey separately. This allows you to mix and match airlines, potentially helping you find better deals and save money.
5. Book 6-12 Weeks in Advance
According to Reddit users, booking your flights 6-12 weeks in advance can often lead to better prices. This timeframe allows airlines to release discounted seats, giving you the opportunity to secure the best deals.
6. Sign Up for Fare Alerts
Keep an eye out for fare alerts by signing up for notifications on websites like Skyscanner. This way, you’ll be notified when prices drop for your desired destinations, allowing you to take advantage of the best flight deals.
7. Check Local Sites for Foreign Airlines
For cheaper prices, consider checking the local websites of foreign airlines. Sometimes, these airlines offer better deals that may not be available on major travel search engines. Expanding your search to include these options can help you find hidden gems.
| Examples of Cheap Flights Found on Reddit: | Price |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh to the Canary Islands | £31 |
| London to Tokyo | £272 |
These examples showcase the potential savings you can achieve by following the tips shared by Reddit users, including flight-hacker Jack Sheldon.
In addition to these top tips, be sure to explore other budget travel hacks to further stretch your travel budget. Consider booking during off-peak seasons, considering alternative airports, and taking advantage of loyalty programs for additional savings.
By incorporating these strategies into your flight search, you’ll be well on your way to finding cheap flights and embarking on your next adventure without breaking the bank.
Putting It All Together
Armed with all the knowledge and tools you need, it’s time to combine the strategies shared by Jack Sheldon and Reddit users to embark on a journey of discovering cheap flights like never before. Here is a summary of the top tips:
- Be flexible with your travel plans. Consider different dates, destinations, and airports to increase your chances of finding cheaper flights.
- Search for vague continent flights instead of specific destinations. This broader search can lead to better deals.
- Clear your browser cookies before searching for flights to avoid potential price increases based on your search history.
- When booking flights with connections, try booking each leg of the journey separately to mix and match airlines and potentially save money.
- Book your flights 6-12 weeks in advance to take advantage of discounted seats released by airlines.
- Sign up for fare alerts on websites like Skyscanner to receive notifications when prices drop for your desired destinations.
- Check local websites of foreign airlines for cheaper prices that may not be available on major travel search engines.
Jack Sheldon’s incredible flight finds, such as flights from Edinburgh to the Canary Islands for just £31 and from London to Tokyo for £272, demonstrate the potential savings you can achieve by following his tips. Additionally, he recommends considering Sri Lanka for its affordable rates and beautiful travel experiences.
| Tip | Summary |
|---|---|
| Be flexible | Consider different dates, destinations, and airports to find cheaper flights. |
| Search for vague continent flights | Look for flights to regions rather than specific cities for better deals. |
| Clear browser cookies | Clear your cookies to avoid potential price increases based on your search history. |
| Book each journey separately | When booking flights with connections, book each leg separately to mix and match airlines for potential savings. |
| Book 6-12 weeks in advance | Booking in this timeframe allows airlines to release discounted seats and offers better prices. |
| Sign up for fare alerts | Receive notifications when prices drop for your desired destinations. |
| Check local sites for foreign airlines | Foreign airlines may offer better deals on their local websites. |
Armed with these tips and the motivation to find cheap flights, start exploring the world on a budget. Happy travels!
Conclusion
In conclusion, by utilizing the tips and strategies from Reddit, you can become an expert in finding cheap flights and enjoy incredible travel experiences without breaking the bank. Jack Sheldon, the renowned flight-hacker, shared his wealth of knowledge during a Reddit AMA, revealing his secrets to scoring mistake fares and uncovering hidden flight deals.
One of the key takeaways from Jack’s tips is the importance of flexibility. By being open to different travel dates, destinations, and even airports, you significantly increase your chances of finding cheaper flights. Additionally, searching for vague continent flights rather than specific destinations can lead to better deals.
Another valuable tip is to clear your browser cookies before searching for flights. Airlines often track your search history and may increase prices if they see repeated searches for the same route. By clearing your cookies, you can potentially find cheaper prices.
Booking each journey separately for flights with connections is another strategy suggested by Jack. By mixing and matching airlines, you can find the best deals and potentially save money. It’s also recommended to book your flights 6-12 weeks in advance, as this is when airlines often release discounted seats.
To stay updated on flight deals, sign up for fare alerts on websites like Skyscanner. These alerts notify you when prices drop for your desired destinations, giving you the opportunity to snatch up the best flight deals. Additionally, checking local websites of foreign airlines can sometimes lead to better prices that may not be available on major travel search engines.
Jack Sheldon’s incredible flight finds, such as flights from Edinburgh to the Canary Islands for £31 and from London to Tokyo for £272, showcase the potential savings that can be achieved by following his tips. He also recommends considering a trip to Sri Lanka, which offers affordable rates and beautiful travel experiences.
With these tips in mind, combined with other budget travel hacks like booking during off-peak seasons and considering alternative airports, you can stretch your travel budget further and make your travel dreams a reality. So start applying these strategies and embark on your next adventure without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What is Jack Sheldon known for?
Jack Sheldon gained popularity on Reddit for his ability to uncover mistake fares and cheap flight deals.
How does Jack Sheldon find cheap flights?
Jack Sheldon uses Google’s ‘back end matrix’ to find hidden discounts and shares his tips on Reddit.
What are some tips for getting cheap flights?
Some tips include being flexible with your travel plans, searching for vague continent flights, clearing cookies before searching, booking each journey separately for flights with connections, and booking 6-12 weeks in advance.
Which websites offer fare alerts?
Websites like Skyscanner offer fare alerts to notify you when prices drop for your desired destinations.
Are there any other budget travel hacks?
Yes, there are many other budget travel hacks you can utilize, such as booking during off-peak seasons and considering alternative airports.
What are some of Jack Sheldon’s amazing flight finds?
Jack Sheldon found flights from Edinburgh to the Canary Islands for £31 and from London to Tokyo for £272.
Where did Jack Sheldon recommend visiting for cheap rates?
Jack Sheldon recommended visiting Sri Lanka for its affordable rates and beautiful travel experiences.
How can I put all the tips into action?
Combine flexibility, clever searching techniques, and insider knowledge to find the best flight deals and embark on your dream trips at affordable prices.
What is the conclusion of Reddit’s top tips for getting cheap flights?
By following the tips shared by Reddit users, especially flight-hacker Jack Sheldon, you’ll be able to save money, explore new destinations, and make your travel dreams a reality.
