Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re like me, the mere mention of travel gets your heart racing. But let’s be honest—flights can get expensive fast. Over the years, I’ve perfected my strategy for snagging low-cost flights, and today, I’m going to spill all my secrets. Trust me, by the time you’re done reading this, you’ll be booking your next adventure without emptying your wallet.

The Art of Flexibility: Your Secret Weapon

I’ve learned that being flexible with your travel dates and destinations can save you a ton of money. For example, a couple of years ago, I was planning a trip to Europe. I had my heart set on Paris, but the flights were outrageously expensive. So, I decided to look at flights to nearby cities. Guess what? I found a dirt-cheap flight to Brussels, just a short train ride away from Paris. Not only did I save a few hundred dollars, but I also got to explore a new city!

Websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights are great for this. They let you search for flights to “everywhere” or within a certain date range. This way, you can find the cheapest times to fly and sometimes discover new destinations you hadn’t considered. Pro tip: try searching for flights on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as studies have shown these days often offer the lowest prices .

Set Fare Alerts: Let the Deals Come to You

Now, I’m not always in the mood to search for flights. Sometimes, I just want the deals to come to me. This is where fare alerts come in handy. You can set these up on websites like Kayak or Momondo. Just enter your travel details, and they’ll notify you when the prices drop.

A few months ago, I set up a fare alert for a trip to Japan. I was casually scrolling through my emails when—bam!—I saw an alert for a flight that was $200 cheaper than usual. I booked it immediately. If I hadn’t set up that alert, I would’ve missed out on a fantastic deal. So, take a few minutes to set these up, and thank me later!

Embrace Budget Airlines (and Pack Light!)

I know, I know. Budget airlines have a reputation for being, well, budget. But hear me out: if you pack smart and prepare for a no-frills experience, you can score some insanely cheap flights. I once flew from New York to Reykjavik for less than $200 round trip on a budget airline. Sure, I had to pay extra for a checked bag, but by packing light and carrying only the essentials, I avoided those pesky fees.

Make sure to read the fine print, though. Budget airlines often have strict baggage policies, and extra fees can add up quickly. Also, consider using a rewards credit card that covers checked bag fees. This way, you can avoid those charges and enjoy a stress-free flight.

Use Incognito Mode: Avoid Price Surges

Have you ever noticed that the price of a flight seems to go up the more you search for it? That’s not your imagination—it’s called dynamic pricing. Airlines use cookies to track your searches, and when they see you’re interested in a particular flight, they might hike up the price. Sneaky, right?

To avoid this, always search for flights in incognito mode. It’s a simple trick, but it can save you a ton of money. Just open a new incognito window in your browser before you start searching for flights. Alternatively, you can clear your cookies or use a different device to search. Every little bit helps!

Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “Who needs more spam in their inbox?” But trust me, airline newsletters can be a goldmine for finding low-cost flights. Airlines often offer exclusive deals and discounts to their subscribers, and you’ll be the first to know about them.

I’ve signed up for newsletters from all the major airlines, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve scored a great deal because of it. One time, I got an email about a flash sale from my favorite airline and ended up booking a flight to Hawaii for less than $300. Just make sure to create a separate email account for all these newsletters, so your main inbox doesn’t get overwhelmed.

Also, don’t forget to sign up for airline loyalty programs. Even if you don’t fly that often, the miles can add up over time, and you can redeem them for free flights or upgrades. Plus, loyalty members sometimes get access to special deals and discounts, so it’s a win-win!

Book at the Right Time: Timing is Everything

When it comes to booking flights, timing is everything. According to travel experts, the best time to book domestic flights is between one to three months in advance, while international flights are best booked around six months ahead . I always try to book my flights during these windows, and I’ve consistently found lower prices.

Another tip: avoid booking flights on weekends. Most people have more free time on weekends, so prices tend to be higher. Instead, try to book flights on a Tuesday or Wednesday when fewer people are searching. It’s a small change that can lead to big savings!

Leverage Points and Miles: Your Travel Currency

Let’s talk about one of my favorite ways to score low-cost flights: points and miles. If you’re not using a rewards credit card for your everyday purchases, you’re missing out. I’ve racked up thousands of miles just by using my credit card for groceries, gas, and other daily expenses. Those miles have helped me book free or heavily discounted flights all over the world.

Many airlines offer co-branded credit cards with generous sign-up bonuses. If you’re planning a big trip, consider signing up for one of these cards and using it for your purchases. Just make sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. You’ll earn miles quickly, and before you know it, you’ll be flying for free!

Use VPNs for Regional Pricing

Here’s a trick not many people know about: using a VPN to access regional pricing. Airlines often charge different prices for the same flight based on your location. By using a VPN, you can change your virtual location and potentially find cheaper fares.

I’ve used this trick a few times when booking international flights. For example, when I was booking a flight from the U.S. to Thailand, I used a VPN to change my location to Thailand. Sure enough, the price dropped by about $50. It’s not a guaranteed method, but it’s worth a try if you’re looking to save a few extra bucks.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance

I know this might sound counterintuitive when you’re trying to save money, but hear me out: travel insurance can actually save you money in the long run. I always opt for travel insurance, especially for international flights or trips with multiple legs. Not only does it protect you in case of cancellations or delays, but it also provides peace of mind, which is priceless in my book.

There are tons of affordable travel insurance options out there. I usually compare prices on InsureMyTrip and pick a plan that covers everything I need. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and could save you a lot of money if something goes wrong.

Final Thoughts: Happy Travels!

Finding low-cost flights doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little flexibility, some savvy searching, and a few insider tips, you can score amazing deals and jet off to your dream destinations without breaking the bank. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, remember these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the best deals. Safe travels, and happy flight hunting!