Traveling to new destinations is exciting, but the cost of flights can often make or break your travel budget. Thankfully, finding affordable airfare has become easier than ever, thanks to advanced apps, websites, and some clever tricks that can help you save big. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous getaway or a long-awaited vacation, mastering the art of finding cheap flights can transform your travel experience.

For expatriates, who often need to fly internationally or visit loved ones back home, learning how to find cheap flights is a must. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best tools and strategies to book affordable flights while keeping your stress levels low.

The best apps for finding cheap flights

Apps have revolutionized the way we book flights. With real-time price tracking and user-friendly interfaces, you can find deals in minutes. Here are some of the best apps for booking flights:

1. Skyscanner

One of the most popular flight comparison apps, Skyscanner allows you to search for flights across multiple airlines. Features like “Everywhere” search (for flexible travelers) and price alerts make it a favorite for budget-conscious travelers.

2. Hopper

Hopper uses AI to predict future flight prices. It tells you whether you should book now or wait for a better deal, ensuring you lock in the lowest fare. It also provides notifications for price drops.

3. Google Flights

Google Flights is a powerful tool that lets you compare flight options, filter for the best deals, and even explore cheaper dates to fly. Its “Price Graph” feature is particularly useful for flexible travelers.

4. Momondo

Momondo aggregates results from various travel websites and airlines, often uncovering deals that other apps miss. It also offers filters for flights with fewer stops or better travel times.

5. Kiwi

Kiwi is perfect for adventurers. Its “Nomad” feature allows you to plan multi-city trips at the lowest possible cost. You can also search for flights without entering specific destinations for spontaneous travel plans.

Top websites for cheap flights

In addition to apps, websites remain a reliable resource for scoring affordable airfare. Here are some of the best ones:

1. Kayak

Kayak is a comprehensive travel search engine that compares prices for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Its “Explore” feature shows you the cheapest destinations you can fly to from your location.

2. Secret Flying

Secret Flying specializes in showcasing error fares and limited-time flight deals. It’s a goldmine for travelers willing to act fast on amazing discounts.

3. Scott’s Cheap Flights (now Going)

This subscription-based service emails you unbeatable flight deals. It’s particularly great for finding deals on international flights.

4. CheapOair

CheapOair aggregates flight options, and its unique selling point is a price match guarantee, giving you peace of mind that you’re getting the best deal possible.

5. Expedia

While known for booking vacations, Expedia often has bundled deals on flights and hotels, which can lead to significant savings for travelers planning a complete trip.

Tricks to find cheap flights

Mastering a few simple hacks can make all the difference when it comes to booking affordable flights:

1. Be Flexible with Dates

• Flights are often cheaper midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during off-peak hours.
• Use tools like Skyscanner’s “Cheapest Month” option to find the best travel dates.

2. Set Price Alerts

Apps like Hopper and Google Flights let you track prices for specific routes. This ensures you’re notified when fares drop.

3. Book in Advance (But Not Too Early)

Booking flights around 1–3 months in advance for domestic trips and 2–6 months for international flights typically yields the best prices.

4. Use Incognito Mode

When searching for flights, use a private browser or incognito mode to avoid price hikes caused by cookies tracking your searches.

5. Fly Budget Airlines

Budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, and AirAsia often have incredibly cheap fares. While they may charge extra for baggage or seat selection, you can save big if you travel light.

6. Consider Nearby Airports

Flying into or out of alternative airports (e.g., Girona instead of Barcelona or Newark instead of JFK) can save you a lot of money.

7. Split Your Trip

Book two one-way tickets instead of a round-trip or consider multi-leg journeys. Sometimes, splitting your trip between different airlines can reduce costs.

8. Sign Up for Airline Newsletters

Airlines often announce flash sales or discount codes through their newsletters, so it pays to subscribe to your favorite carriers.

Special Tips for Expats

If you’re living abroad, here’s how you can tailor your flight search for the best deals:

• Track Flights to Home Countries: Set alerts for flights to your home country, as prices can vary significantly.
• Fly During Off-Seasons: If you’re planning to visit family, try to avoid peak travel periods like holidays or school vacations.
• Look for Expat Deals: Some travel agencies cater specifically to expatriates and offer special discounts for flights.
• Compare Regional Airlines: In countries like Spain, regional airlines may have cheaper options for domestic travel.

The Benefits of Planning Ahead

While spontaneity is fun, planning your trips ahead of time can save you a considerable amount of money. Here’s why:

• Early Access to Deals: Airlines often release their lowest fares months in advance.
• Avoid Last-Minute Surges: Prices typically rise closer to the departure date.
• More Options: Early booking gives you a wider range of flights, seats, and times to choose from.

Final Thoughts

Traveling doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With the right apps, websites, and tricks, you can secure affordable flights for your next adventure. Whether you’re flying home as an expat or planning a new journey, tools like Skyscanner, Hopper, and Google Flights can make the process smoother and more budget-friendly.

By staying flexible, setting alerts, and exploring alternative options, you’ll not only save money but also make the most out of your travel experiences.

Happy travels, and may your flights always be affordable!