How to Save Money on Airfare: 10 Tips for Budget-Friendly Flights

Traveling can be expensive, especially when it comes to airfare. But with the right strategies, you can find affordable flights to your dream destination. Whether you’re planning a domestic or international trip, these 10 tips will help you save money on your next flight.

Air travel has become increasingly expensive since travel resumed in 2022. With limited capacity and rising fuel prices, airline tickets have skyrocketed, making it difficult for many people to take to the skies without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to explore the world or your own country, you don’t have to let airfare costs hold you back.

Here are 10 tips for finding budget-friendly flights and saving money on airfare.


Flip Your Flight Search:

Strategy Instead of searching for flights by destination, flip the way you search for flights. Use the Google Explore map, enter your departure airport, and leave the destination open (or pick a region, such as Asia). This way, you can get an instant picture of which places are cheaper to reach on your selected dates.

Use a Good Flight Search Site:

There are many good flight search sites out there, such as Google Flights or Skyscanner. These sites allow you to compare airlines, see which days of the week offer better value, and find the best deals.


Avoid Weekends and Peak Seasons:

Weekend flights are typically the most expensive and highest in demand. Flying out on a weekday can really help keep costs down. Avoid school holidays and peak seasons if possible, and be flexible with your travel dates. Flexibility is the key to finding cheaper flights.

Book Two One-Way Tickets:

Mix things up and book separate one-way fares instead of booking round-trip flights. This can end up saving you money.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates:

Sometimes airline prices can drop drastically between days. Keep an eye on prices and be ready to jump on a good deal.

Set an Airfare Alert:

Sites like Google Flights allow you to set up airfare alerts, which notify you when there is a drop in price. This is a great way to keep an eye on prices and book flights when they’re at their lowest.


Consider Land Travel:

When time is on your side, consider land transfers. Instead of flying into a major city, fly to a nearby city or country instead. It doesn’t take long (or cost much) to get between the two cities on a super-fast train. Scheduling a stopover can also make airfares cheaper.

Plan a Stopover:

Flying direct can have a huge impact on how much you pay for your flight, especially if you’re crossing an ocean. Plan a stopover in a city along the way to break up your journey and save money on your airfare.

Take a Domestic Flight First:

If you’re flying internationally, use a positioning fare to get you to your destination. These are short domestic flights from your base to a second domestic destination to get a cheaper fare for the longer leg. This can be a great way to save money on long-haul flights.

Bypass the Bigger Airports:

Think about flying into secondary airports in major cities, if that’s an option. There’s often a price difference between fares, and you can save money by flying into a smaller, secondary airport.


Traveling by air doesn’t have to be expensive. By following these tips and tricks, you can find budget-friendly flights and save money on airfare. Remember to stay flexible, use a good flight search site, and be willing to try new things. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can take to the skies without breaking the bank.