How to find cheap flights: 9 practical tips
22 June 2026
Cheap flying is mostly about searching smart. These nine tips deliver the most in practice.
1. Be flexible with your dates
Shifting one day can save a lot. Always check the days around your preferred date.
2. Compare departure airports
The same route is sometimes far cheaper from a nearby airport. Factor in travel time.
3. Target the cheapest month
Avoid peak season and aim for the shoulder season.
4. Consider a layover
No direct flight, or too expensive? A connection is often cheaper — and sometimes a free extra city.
5. Book outbound and return separately
The cheapest outbound and return may be different airlines. Separate booking can beat a round trip.
6. Count the real cost
A cheap ticket with pricey checked baggage isn't cheap. Add bags and transfer.
7. Set a price alert
Let the price watch itself instead of checking manually.
8. Sort by "best", not just price
The cheapest flight with two stops and a night arrival is rarely the best choice.
9. Let an assistant do the work
Tell the flAIghts assistant in Flights what you want in plain language and let it fetch the options.
FAQ
Does incognito searching work?
No, that's a myth. Focus on date, route and booking window.