Flight prices can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you have to overpay.
Traders on Kalshi think there’s a 60% chance flights in the U.S. will top 2.6 million at the start of June. That’s a lot of seats.
By using smart tools, perfect timing, and a few insider tricks, you can fly for a fraction of what others pay.
Here’s your data-driven guide to finding the cheapest flights — without settling for a miserable layover or sketchy airline.
Use Flight Comparison Sites
Start with platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo. They scan hundreds of airlines and booking sites to surface the best deals. Google Flights excels at flexible date tracking, while Skyscanner shows budget carriers you might miss elsewhere. Don’t just check one — cross-reference for better prices.
Be Flexible With Dates
Flying on a Wednesday or Saturday often means cheaper fares. According to Hopper, midweek departures can save travelers up to 20%. Use “whole month” or “cheapest month” search features to find the lowest-cost dates to fly.
Book at the Right Time
Timing matters. The best window to book domestic U.S. flights is typically 21—60 days in advance, while international deals are better 2—6 months out. Prices often rise in the last three weeks before departure. Avoid booking on weekends — Tuesday and Wednesday show the best price trends.
Use Alerts and Track Prices
Set up fare alerts through Google Flights or Hopper. These tools notify you when prices drop or surge, giving you the best shot at locking in the lowest fare. Some even forecast whether prices are likely to rise or fall in the coming days.
Fly Budget Airlines — But Read the Fine Print
Carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and Ryanair often offer rock-bottom fares, but the base ticket rarely includes baggage or seat selection. If you can travel light and skip the extras, the savings are real. Just know exactly what you’re getting — and not getting.
Search in Incognito Mode
Some claim prices rise if you search repeatedly for the same flight. While evidence is mixed, using incognito or private browsing can prevent cookies from influencing prices. It’s a low-effort way to rule out any algorithmic price games.
Use Points, Miles, and Hidden-City Ticketing
Leverage credit card points or frequent flyer miles when possible. Tools like Point.me help you find the best ways to use rewards. For the bold, check sites like Skiplagged for hidden-city ticketing — but know airlines hate it, and it only works one-way, with carry-on only.
Avoid Peak Seasons
Flying during holidays, school breaks, or major events can double or triple prices. Use Google Trends to avoid dates with high search traffic. If you must fly peak, book as early as possible — those seats disappear fast.
Use Regional Airports
Big airports often have higher fees and demand. Check for nearby regional airports that may offer cheaper options. For example, flying into BWI instead of DCA or JFK instead of LGA could save you hundreds.
Clear Cookies and Try Different Devices
Some travelers claim that prices can vary based on your location, device, or browser. While not always consistent, trying multiple browsers or clearing cookies may occasionally surface lower fares. It’s not guaranteed — but worth a shot.
