10 Tips on Booking Cheap Flights

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Booking flights can be stressful, especially when staying within your budget. But don’t worry—getting a good deal is easier than you think! 

You can save big on airfare with a bit of planning and some clever strategies. Here are ten practical tips to help you book cheap flights without breaking the bank.

1. Book Early (But Not Too Early)

Airline tickets are cheaper if you book in advance. Generally, the best deals are available by booking domestic flights for international flights 1-3 months before your trip or 2-6 months before your trip.

But don’t book too early—airlines rarely offer discounts over a year before the travel date. Booking early allows you to choose from a broader range of options, including flight times and seat preferences, without compromising.

2. Be Flexible with Travel Dates

If you can, avoid peak travel days. Flying mid-week (like Tuesday or Wednesday) or at odd hours (early morning or late night) often means cheaper tickets. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare prices across various dates. 

The more flexible you are, the better your chances of finding a bargain. Also, try to be flexible with your destination—sometimes, flying to nearby cities or hubs can significantly reduce costs.

3. Set Fare Alerts

Don’t waste time checking for deals every day. Let technology do the work! Set up fare alerts on websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, or Hopper. 

These tools notify you when ticket prices drop for your preferred routes, so you’ll never miss a great deal. Fare alerts are beneficial for tracking fluctuating prices on international routes, where prices can vary significantly over time.

4. Fly Budget-Friendly Airlines in Your Region

Global airlines like Ryanair or Spirit are affordable to book. But for Nigerians, airlines such as Air Peace, Dana Air, Green Africa Airways, and Arik Air often offer competitive fares for domestic and regional flights. 

Check their websites for special deals and promotions. However, be cautious about extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services. Read the fine print to ensure the savings are worth it. 

These airlines frequently have sales, so it’s worth subscribing to their newsletters to stay informed.

READ MORE:

• Air Travel in Nigeria: Guide to Domestic Airlines and Destinations
• Can I Travel to Nigeria with an Expired Passport?
• How to Choose the Best Nigeria Travel Insurance for Your Trip

5. Use Incognito Mode

Have you noticed flight prices increase after repeatedly searching for the same route? This might be due to cookies tracking your activity. To avoid this, use your browser’s incognito or private browsing mode or clear cookies before checking prices. 

This way, you’ll see unbiased pricing and better track real-time changes. For added convenience, you can also switch devices—check prices on your phone and then book on your laptop.

6. Consider Alternative Airports

Flying to or from smaller or less popular airports can save money. For example, check nearby regional airports instead of flying into a busy hub. You can also save by booking flights with layovers at alternative airports instead of direct flights. 

For instance, in Nigeria, consider flying into Abuja instead of Lagos if it’s cheaper and manageable for your travel plans. Always compare total travel costs, including ground transportation from alternative airports, to ensure you’re truly saving.

7. Mix and Match Airlines

Sometimes, booking one-way tickets on two different airlines is cheaper than booking a round-trip ticket with the same airline. Use tools like Kiwi.com, which lets you combine flights from multiple airlines to find the most affordable options. 

This strategy benefits international travel, where airlines may offer varying rates for inbound and outbound flights.

Be cautious, though, and leave plenty of time between connecting flights using different airlines, as missed connections may not be covered.

8. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Timing is everything! Avoid travelling during high-demand holidays, school vacations, and other busy times. Instead, opt for off-peak seasons, like late spring or early fall, when flights are usually cheaper. 

For Nigeria, travelling during non-festive periods, such as before or after Christmas and New Year, can significantly affect airfare costs. Researching the seasonal trends for your destination can also give you insights into the cheapest travel times.

9. Redeem Points and Miles

If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards or are part of an airline’s loyalty program, this is your time to cash in. Even if you don’t have enough points for a free flight, you can often get significant discounts. 

Some Nigerian banks offer travel rewards cards that allow customers to earn points on everyday purchases. Additionally, programs like British Airways Executive Club or Emirates Skywards can be helpful for Nigerians travelling internationally. 

Sign up early and start accumulating those points for future trips.

10. Check for Student, Senior, or Group Discounts

You may qualify for special discounts if you’re a student, a senior citizen, or travelling in a group. Many airlines and travel agencies offer reduced fares for these groups—you just need to ask or look for them on the airline’s website. 

For instance, some travel agencies in Nigeria specialise in group discounts for family vacations or student travel packages for studying abroad.

Bonus Tips:

Don’t Wait for the Perfect Deal: Prices fluctuate, and waiting too long might mean missing out. If you find a price you’re comfortable with, book it!

Pack Light: Travel with just a carry-on to avoid baggage fees. Budget airlines, in particular, charge hefty fees for checked luggage.

Book in the Local Currency: If you’re booking a flight in another country, compare prices in their local currency. Sometimes, you can save a bit by avoiding exchange rate markups.

Leverage Social Media: Follow airlines on social media platforms like Twitter or Instagram, as they often announce flash sales or promotional deals there.

Consider Booking Through a Travel Agent: In some cases, especially for complicated itineraries or last-minute travel, a travel agent can help you find cheaper options and package deals unavailable online.

Finding cheap flights doesn’t have to be a hassle. You can save hundreds on your next trip by being flexible, using the right tools, and staying informed.