If you want to get cheap flights for your last minute travel plans, being flexible with your travel dates and timing is key. Flights that depart mid-week or red-eye flights tend to be cheaper than those that depart on weekends or during prime time. If you can, try to be flexible with your travel dates and book a flight that departs during off-peak times. This can save you a significant amount of money on your airfare.
Additionally, consider booking your flight at the last minute, as airlines often release unsold seats at a discounted price. Booking your flight a few days before your travel date can sometimes lead to substantial savings.
By being adaptable with your travel schedule, you can maximize your chances of finding affordable last minute flights. So, if you’re looking to save money on your next spontaneous trip, make sure to keep your travel dates and timing flexible.
1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Timing
If you want to get the cheapest last minute flights, being flexible with your travel dates and timing is essential. Mid-week flights and red-eye flights are generally less expensive than weekend and prime time flights, which means that adjusting your travel schedule can significantly impact your travel expenses. Keep in mind that the flexibility of your travel dates may also depend on your destination and the time of year, as some places are more popular during certain seasons. Still, if you can adjust your travel dates by a day or two, or even a few hours, you may be able to find some great deals on last minute flights.
2. Use Fare Comparison Websites
If you want to find the cheapest last minute flights, fare comparison websites like Kayak, Expedia, and Skyscanner can be your best friend. These websites compare fares across multiple airlines and help you choose the best deal for your travel needs. All you have to do is enter your travel dates and destination, and these sites will do the rest of the work for you.
One great feature of these sites is that they have an option to set up fare alerts. If you can’t find a good deal right away, you can sign up for fare alerts and receive notifications when the price drops. This can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Another tip for using these websites is to clear your browser cookies before searching. Some airlines may track your online behavior and increase the prices if they see that you’re constantly searching for a certain flight. Clearing your cookies can help prevent this and ensure that you’re seeing the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
Overall, using fare comparison websites can help you find the best deals on last minute flights. Take advantage of these tools and save yourself some money on your next spontaneous adventure.
3. Subscribe to Airline Newsletters and Alerts
One of the best ways to stay informed about last minute deals and promotions is by subscribing to airline newsletters and alerts. By signing up for these alerts, you can receive information about exclusive deals and discounts that are only available to subscribers.
Many airlines also offer regular newsletters that include travel tips and recommendations, as well as information about upcoming sales and promotions. These newsletters can be a great resource for last minute travelers who are looking for ways to save money on their flights.
In addition, some airlines offer mobile apps that allow you to receive alerts and updates about your flight status, as well as last minute deals and promotions. By downloading these apps, you can stay informed and up-to-date about the latest travel news and deals, no matter where you are.
Overall, subscribing to airline newsletters and alerts can be a great way to stay informed about last minute travel deals and promotions. By taking advantage of these resources, you can save money on your flights and make the most of your last minute travel plans.
4. Book Connecting Flights
One way to save money on last minute flights is to book connecting flights. This means that you will have to travel to your destination with a layover or multiple stops. While this may require a longer travel time, it can be worth it for the savings.
When booking connecting flights, it’s important to do your research and choose flights with layovers that are not too long or too short. You don’t want to be stuck waiting in the airport for hours, but you also don’t want to risk missing your connecting flight.
You can also consider booking connecting flights with the same airline or airlines within the same alliance to make sure your luggage is transferred smoothly between flights. This can help you save time and avoid any potential issues with lost luggage.
Overall, booking connecting flights can be a great way to save money on last minute travel. Just make sure to plan ahead and choose carefully to make sure your travel goes smoothly.
5. Consider Alternate Airports
One of the easiest ways to save money on last minute flights is to consider flying to and from alternate airports. Nearby airports can often offer lower priced flights compared to major airports. For example, instead of considering JFK airport, try looking at LaGuardia or Newark airport if you’re flying to New York City. Make sure to compare prices and consider travel time and transportation costs to and from the airport before making your final decision.
Another option is to look for smaller airlines that may not operate out of major airports. These airlines often offer more affordable options and may have deals for last minute travel. Keep in mind that these smaller airlines may have more limited schedules and may require connections, so plan accordingly.
6. Book Last Minute Package Deals
Booking a last minute package deal that includes both airfare and hotel can be a great way to save money on your travels. Many travel websites offer packages for last minute travelers that are often significantly cheaper than booking each component separately. These package deals can include flights, hotel accommodations, and sometimes even transportation or activities.
One advantage of booking a package deal is convenience. You can book everything at once, which can save you time and effort. Additionally, you may be able to customize your package according to your preferences, such as choosing your preferred airline or hotel chain.
Another advantage is that package deals can offer significant savings on both airfare and hotel costs. Because the airlines and hotels want to fill their inventory, they often offer last minute package deals at a discounted rate to ensure they don’t have empty seats or beds. By taking advantage of these last minute package deals, you can often save hundreds of dollars on your travel expenses.
When booking a last minute package deal, be sure to read the fine print and check for any additional fees or restrictions. Also, be sure to compare prices across different travel websites to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. With a little bit of research, booking a package deal can be an excellent way to save money on your last minute travels.
7. Use Airline Miles and Credit Card Rewards
If you have accumulated airline miles or credit card rewards, using them for last minute flights can be a great way to save money on your travel expenses. Many airlines and credit card companies allow you to redeem your points or miles for flights, which can significantly reduce the cost of your trip.
To use your airline miles, simply log in to your frequent flyer account and search for available flights. Once you’ve found the flight you want, you can use your miles to book the ticket. Keep in mind that there may be restrictions on the use of airline miles, such as blackout dates or limited availability, so it’s best to plan ahead and book early.
Similarly, credit card rewards programs allow you to redeem points for travel expenses, including flights. Check with your credit card company to see what rewards are available and how to redeem them.
Overall, whether you have accumulated airline miles or credit card rewards, using them for last minute travel can be a great way to save money and make your last minute trip more affordable.