It seems that airline prices are always on the rise, and it keeps getting harder to find cheap flights. However, there are several tips which seasoned travelers use in order to get the best deals every time, especially if you're able to be flexible with your dates.
Mid-Week Flights
When compared to weekend flights, any flights that are scheduled during the week always end up being cheaper, without fail. This because there are fewer passengers flying and the airlines are in a hurry to fill vacant seats. When at all possible, try to stay flexible when planning your trip days, which will let you get the cheapest flights available. Historically, Mondays bring much lower prices than Fridays, so try and avoid flying out before the weekend crunch.
Buy on Wednesdays
Even if you can't actually fly out mid-week, Wednesdays are the best time to buy cheap flights. This is because most airlines book the bulk of their flights on Mondays and Tuesdays. Tuesday night is when airlines update their booking computers, so when Wednesday morning comes there are plenty of deals to be had.
Last-Minute Deals
You will often be able to get a great deal by buying just before your departure date, as long as you aren't too nervous to leave it until the very last minute before buying your airline tickets. Of course there is a bit of risk involved in this strategy, as the flights may be booked, so you have to be a bit of a gambler. The other alternative is to buy your flights far in advance, at least three weeks before departure.
Fly Nearby
Finally, don't forget to check nearby cities and airports to see if you may be able to get less expensive tickets to someplace close to your destination. It may be cheaper to rent a car for the final leg than fly direct. There may also be smaller local airlines which you can utilize to keep flight costs low.
There are lots of ways to save money on your next trip as long as you're willing to be creative and think outside the usual airline box. Real cheap flights are still out there, you just have to know where and how to look.
