Booking cheap flights for Nigerians doesn’t have to be stressful. Staying within your budget while securing a good deal is easier than you think!
With a bit of planning and clever strategies, you can save big on airfare for both domestic and international travel. Whether you’re flying with budget airlines like Air Peace or exploring tips for avoiding peak travel costs, there are plenty of ways to keep your airfare affordable.
Here are ten practical tips tailored for Nigerians to help you book cheap flights and make your travel dreams a reality—without breaking the bank.
Top 10 Expert Tips for Nigerians to Book Cheap Flights in 2025
- Book Early (But Not Too Early)
- Be Flexible with Travel Dates
- Set Fare Alerts
- Fly Budget-Friendly Airlines in Your Region
- Use Incognito Mode
- Consider Alternative Airports
- Mix and Match Airlines
- Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
- Redeem Points and Miles
- Check for Student, Senior, or Group Discounts
1. Book Early (But Not Too Early)
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. For example, use incognito mode when searching for flights from Lagos or Abuja to avoid price increases caused by cookies
6. Consider Alternative Airports
Flying from regional airports in Nigeria, like Enugu or Kaduna, can save money compared to busier hubs like Lagos or Abuja 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
For instance, some travel agencies in Nigeria specialise in group discounts for family vacations or student travel packages for studying abroad.
Bonus Tips to Save Even More on Flights
- 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 Nigerian airlines like Air Peace and Arik Air on social media for flash sales and exclusive deals.
- 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. Consider booking through Nigerian travel agents like Wakanow, which often offer discounted flight packages
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Booking Cheap Flights for Nigerians
What are the best budget airlines in Nigeria?
Affordable airlines in Nigeria include Air Peace, Dana Air, Green Africa Airways, and Arik Air. These airlines frequently offer promotions and discounted fares for domestic and regional flights.
How far in advance should Nigerians book flights for the best deals?
For domestic flights, book 1-3 months in advance. For international flights, aim for 2-6 months before your travel date to secure the best prices.
Can incognito mode help find cheaper flights?
Yes, using your browser’s incognito mode prevents cookies from tracking your searches, which can help you see unbiased and potentially lower prices.
When is the cheapest time for Nigerians to travel?
Traveling during off-peak seasons, such as late spring or early fall, and avoiding festive periods like Christmas and New Year often results in lower airfare costs.
Are there discounts available for students, seniors, or groups?
Yes, many airlines and travel agencies offer special discounts for students, senior citizens, and group bookings. Always inquire or check their websites for specific deals.
How can Nigerians earn travel rewards or miles?
Sign up for loyalty programs like British Airways Executive Club or Emirates Skywards. Some Nigerian banks also offer credit cards with travel reward points for everyday purchases.