Introduction
As airfare prices rebound from their 2023 peaks, savvy travelers are seizing the opportunity to explore new destinations without breaking the bank. With a range of smart strategies at your disposal, navigating the world of air travel can be significantly more affordable. Here are five essential travel hacks that can help you score the best deals on flights in 2024.
Aim to Fly Mid-Week
One of the simplest ways to cut costs is to plan your flights for mid-week days. Data from Google Flights shows that flying on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays can save travelers between 13% to 20% compared to weekend flights. Among these days, Tuesday stands out as the most economical. Avoiding weekend travel can result in notable savings, especially when flight prices spike around busy holiday periods.
Consider Budget Airlines
For the price-conscious traveler, budget airlines can provide substantial savings, often hundreds of dollars less than major carriers. While these airlines may offer a no-frills experience—with additional fees for carry-ons and seat selections—they serve as an ideal option for short trips and casual getaways. Notable budget airlines in the U.S. include Allegiant, Frontier, and Spirit, among others.
Take Advantage of One-Way Flights and Layovers
Booking one-way flights opens up a plethora of pricing options, allowing travelers to mix and match airlines for the most cost-effective routes. Additionally, consider flights with layovers, as these options tend to be cheaper. According to Google Flights, travelers can save approximately 25% by choosing flights with layovers over direct flights.
Utilize a Travel Credit Card
Travel credit cards can be invaluable for saving on airfare, offering points or miles for both travel-related and everyday expenditures. Many of these cards are affiliated with airlines, providing additional perks such as priority boarding and free checked bags. By accumulating rewards, travelers can significantly offset future travel costs—turning everyday spending into travel savings.
Use Travel Apps for Deal Alerts
Technology has made it easier than ever to find flight deals. Apps like Going provide notifications for unbeatable fares, sometimes yielding discounts of up to 90%. Google Flights has also introduced a “Cheapest” tab, allowing users to effortlessly discover budget-friendly options for their desired travel dates.
Key Takeaways
- Fly mid-week to save 13%-20% on airfare.
- Explore budget airlines for significant savings.
- Consider one-way flights and layovers for lower prices.
- Maximize savings with travel credit cards.
- Utilize travel apps to find and alert you to the best deals.
