How to Find Cheap Flights

Finding cheap flights doesn’t require luck — it requires strategy. Here are the most effective methods (and real-life travel hacks) travelers use to save hundreds of dollars on flights.

Check current cheap flight deals on Skyscanner →

• Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations
  Flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) is usually cheaper than weekends.
  Use Google Flights Explore or Skyscanner Everywhere to instantly see where it’s cheapest to fly from your city.
• Check Nearby Airports
  Flying into alternative airports can save a lot of money.
  Example: Flying into Milan instead of Venice can save up to 40%, followed by a short train ride.
  In the US, try Newark instead of JFK, or Oakland instead of San Francisco.
• Use Price Alerts
  Apps like Hopper or Skyscanner notify you the moment prices drop.
  Real hack: Set alerts for multiple nearby cities — sometimes flying to a hub city plus a budget airline is cheaper.
• Book Separate Legs
  Instead of one direct ticket, split your journey into two bookings.
  Example: New York → London → Athens can be much cheaper than a direct NYC → Athens flight.
• Try Budget Airlines (But Be Smart)
  Airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and AirAsia often sell tickets under $20.
  Hack: Travel light. Carry-on luggage is usually free, but checked bags can double the ticket price.
• Go Incognito (or Use a VPN)
  Airlines and booking sites may increase prices after repeated searches.
  Use private browsing or a VPN to avoid price tracking.
• Timing Matters
  Short flights: Book 6–8 weeks in advance.
  International flights: 2–6 months ahead is usually ideal.
  Hack: Prices often drop Monday–Wednesday for long-haul flights.
• Use Points and Cashback
  Many credit cards offer travel rewards and cashback.
  Example: Cards like Chase Sapphire or American Express can earn you free flights after just a few trips.
• Hidden City Ticketing (Advanced Hack)
  Sites like Skiplagged show “hidden city” fares where your destination is a layover.
  Example: Book NYC → Paris → Madrid if you only need Paris.
  ⚠️ Warning: Never check luggage — it goes to the final destination.
• Travel Overnight or Red-Eye Flights
  Less popular flight times are often cheaper.
  Bonus: You save money on one night of accommodation.