If you’re trip savvy, it’s very easy to save money on your flights. We always pay by credit card for extra protection and then follow this list:
Go incognito:
If you check flights and routes with an airline or comparison site more than a few times the prices can increase due to the cookies in your browser. Always search incognito to avoid this.
Use search engines:
Use search engine sites to compare prices. It’s always worth using two, as the sites scan different airlines. Our favourites are Skyscanner, Momondo and Kayak.
Indirect flights:
If you’ve time, don’t just check direct flights. Sometimes adding a few hours in a transit airport can save you hundreds – and you can stretch your legs. Also, check out if you can overnight at the airline’s cost. You will arrive at your final destination rested and experience another city. Comparison sites will allow you to filter via direct and indirect flights and compare costs.
Codeshares:
If you want to stick with a particular airline or are trying to save on a specific flight, check for codeshares. This is when two or more airline partners share the same plane – one of the airlines often sells the same flight cheaper.
Charter flights:
Charter flights aren’t just used for package tours. Holiday companies block book and then often release unused seats at bargain prices – so it’s always worth checking, especially for beach destinations.
Package holidays:
If you’re booking last minute, and going to a popular package tour country, it can be cheaper to buy a package and ditch the accommodation or use it as a base. We’ve done this several times when flying to Turkey or a Greek Island.
Book early:
If you can, book early for the best prices. You can find out when airlines release tickets on the MoneySavingExpert site.
Pick your day:
Midweek flights are nearly always cheaper than weekend flights. If can travel midweek, you will save money. Our tip is to display flight fares across a week so you can directly compare costs.
Mix and match airlines:
On a multi destination trip, compare prices with different airlines for each leg – it will save you cash. Use local, budget airlines for internal or local travel once you’re in your destination. Don’t feel you need to stick with partners of whoever you initially flew in with. You can save sizeable money this way.