Traveling in 2025 doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right strategies, you can find cheap flights online that allow you to explore the world without spending a fortune. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an international adventure, understanding how to find cheap flights is a crucial skill for any traveler.
We’ve compiled a guide written to help you through the process of booking affordable flights using expert tips and tried-and-tested methods.
How to find cheap flights and why it matters
In today’s travel landscape, airline ticket prices can be unpredictable. However, with airfares making up a significant portion of travel expenses, knowing how to find cheap flights online can make all the difference. According to recent reports from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global airfares have been volatile, making it essential for travelers to stay vigilant in seeking the best deals.
Whether you’re looking to visit family or embark on an exotic vacation, saving on flights means you have more to spend on experiences once you reach your destination. Below are expert-approved strategies for securing the best prices when booking your flights.
1. Start Your Search with Flight Comparison Websites
When it comes to finding cheap flights, the first step is often the most critical. Utilizing flight comparison websites is a game-changer. These platforms aggregate data from multiple airlines, travel agencies, and third-party booking services to give you an overview of the best prices available.
Top Flight Comparison Websites for 2025
Some of the most reliable comparison websites include:
- Google Flights – Google’s search engine for flights is easy to use and allows you to explore different date ranges and routes. Its user-friendly interface lets you filter by price, duration, and number of stops.
- Skyscanner – This platform compares flights from all major carriers and provides a visual map to show which routes are the most affordable.
- Momondo – A top choice for budget-conscious travelers, Momondo consistently finds lower-priced flights by comparing a wide range of options.
- Kayak – Kayak’s “Price Forecast” feature predicts whether ticket prices will rise or fall, helping you make informed decisions.
2. Set Price Alerts and Monitor Deals
Flight prices fluctuate daily. The same flight may be priced differently based on demand, day of the week, and various other factors. To ensure you never miss a great deal, setting price alerts is a must.
Many flight search engines, like Google Flights and Skyscanner, allow you to create price alerts for specific routes. Once you set an alert, you’ll receive notifications when prices drop. In addition to these alerts, subscribing to airline newsletters or following airlines on social media can keep you in the loop on flash sales and limited-time offers.
When to Book Your Flight for the Best Price
Booking in advance is often key to securing cheaper tickets. Generally, the best time to book flights is:
- For Domestic Flights: 6 to 8 weeks before your departure.
- For International Flights: 2 to 5 months in advance.
3. Be Flexible with Your Dates and Airports
One of the simplest ways to find cheap flights is by being flexible with your travel dates and airports. Airline ticket prices are often heavily influenced by demand, which peaks during weekends, holidays, and school vacation periods.
Flexible Dates
Flight prices typically drop on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with weekends being the most expensive times to travel. If your schedule allows, use the “Flexible Dates” option on flight comparison sites to see which dates have the lowest prices. Avoiding peak season (like Christmas or school holidays) can also lead to significant savings.
Alternative Airports
Another tip is to consider flying into alternative airports. Major cities often have multiple airports, and flying into a secondary airport can save you a lot of money. For instance, in Johannesburg, flights to OR Tambo International Airport can sometimes be more expensive than flights to Lanseria International Airport. Similarly, international travelers can explore secondary airports in large cities to score better prices.
Expert Insight:
TripAdvisor advises: “You’d be surprised how much you can save by flying into a different airport. Check both primary and secondary airport options to increase your chances of landing a cheaper deal.”
4. Leverage Airline Rewards and Miles
If you’re a frequent flyer or use a travel rewards credit card, now is the time to cash in on those points. Many airlines offer loyalty programs where you can earn miles or points that can be redeemed for discounted or free flights.
In addition, some credit cards offer sign-up bonuses or cash back that can be used towards airfare. For example, South African Airways and British Airways both have robust rewards programs that allow you to redeem miles for flights, upgrades, and more.
5. Book Round-Trip Flights and Use Multi-City Routes
When booking flights, one of the first things to check is whether a round-trip ticket will save you money. Often, booking a return ticket rather than two one-way flights is cheaper, even if your return trip is on a different date.
Additionally, if you plan on visiting multiple destinations, booking a multi-city flight might offer significant savings compared to booking separate one-way tickets. Multi-city routes allow you to fly from your home airport to one destination and from another airport to your home, all within one booking.
6. Be Aware of Hidden Fees
Budget airlines often lure travelers in with low ticket prices, but beware of hidden fees that can drive up the cost of your flight. For example, low-cost carriers might charge for checked luggage, seat selection, food, and other services.
To avoid surprises, always check the total cost before booking. Look for fee breakdowns on comparison websites and be sure to factor in the extra charges to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
7. Look for Error Fares
Occasionally, airlines or travel websites may list flights at drastically reduced prices due to system errors. These “error fares” can be a goldmine for savvy travelers, but they often disappear quickly once the airline realizes the mistake.
You can track error fares through websites like Secret Flying and Airfare Watchdog, which specialize in finding and publishing these rare deals. While error fares are unpredictable, if you’re quick enough, they can provide savings of up to 80% off the regular price.
8. Use Incognito Mode for Searching
Airlines and booking sites can track your searches and raise prices based on your search history. To prevent this, try using “Incognito Mode” or a private browsing window when searching for flights. This helps keep your searches anonymous and may prevent price hikes.
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Finding cheap flights online is a skill that can be learned with the right tools and strategies. By utilizing flight comparison websites, setting price alerts, being flexible with your dates and airports, and booking in advance, you can secure affordable tickets for your next trip. Don’t forget to take advantage of loyalty programs, multi-city bookings, and error fares to maximize your savings.
For more travel tips and to stay updated on the latest airline deals, follow South African Airways and Google Flights for the best opportunities.
