Flying can get pricey, especially when factoring in all the little add-ons and fluctuating ticket prices. But there are plenty of smart strategies to save money on flights without giving up comfort. With some planning, flexibility, and know-how, you can cut down on costs, leaving you with more budget to enjoy at your destination. Here are some tried-and-true tips for making your next flight easier on your wallet.

1. Book Flights Mid-Week

It may sound too good to be true, but booking flights on Wednesdays can sometimes lead to lower prices. Many airlines release deals on Monday evenings, and by mid-week, competitors match or beat these prices to stay in the game. If your travel dates are flexible, try booking on Wednesday or even Thursday for the best chance at a deal. Another pro tip: check prices on Tuesday evenings as well, since the competitive pricing usually starts then.

2. Skip the Seat Selection

For those not too particular about where they sit, skipping the seat selection can save a surprising amount. Many airlines charge for early seat selection, but if you’re willing to wait, you can usually select a seat for free when checking in 24 hours before your flight. Most people find they end up with decent seats, and if traveling with someone, try checking in together to increase your chances of sitting side-by-side.

3. Pack Lightly and Smartly

Baggage fees add up fast, and many airlines only include a carry-on for free. To dodge fees, try to fit everything in a carry-on and personal item. If that sounds tricky, consider these hacks:

  • Wear your heaviest clothing items: Jackets, boots, and even sweaters take up precious space, so wear them through security and take them off once onboard.
  • Invest in packing cubes: They compress your clothing, helping you organize and fit more in your bag.
  • Roll, don’t fold: Rolling clothes reduces wrinkles and takes up less space, making it easier to pack everything you need in one bag.

4. Eat Before You Board (and Bring Snacks)

Airport and in-flight food can be pricey, not to mention underwhelming. Eating a hearty meal before heading to the airport can save you money and keep you full through your flight. Packing snacks, especially non-perishables like trail mix or granola bars, gives you the flexibility to munch when you want without paying for in-flight service. Bringing an empty reusable water bottle to fill after security is another simple way to save and stay hydrated.

5. Use Flight Comparison Tools

Flight comparison tools are your best friend when trying to find a deal. Sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak make it easy to search across multiple airlines and filter for the best price, shortest travel time, or ideal departure window. Set up price alerts for your desired route so you’ll be notified when fares drop. You can also use tools like Hopper to track historical fare trends, helping you book during periods when prices tend to be lower.

6. Be Flexible with Your Plans

A bit of flexibility can go a long way in saving on air travel. Flights are often cheaper when flying mid-week, early in the morning, or late at night, as these times are less convenient. Additionally, choosing connecting flights over direct flights may also save you money, even if it adds some travel time. This works particularly well if you have time to spare and are open to spending a few hours at a layover.

7. Join Frequent Flyer Programs and Airline Alliances

Frequent flyer programs aren’t just for frequent travelers. Even occasional flyers can benefit by joining, as points accumulate over time and can eventually be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, or other perks. Many airlines are also part of alliances (like Star Alliance or OneWorld), meaning you can earn points with partner airlines, giving you more options for redeeming them. Some programs offer special members-only deals that non-members miss out on, so it’s worth signing up even if you don’t fly often.

8. Use Credit Card Rewards Wisely

If you have a travel rewards credit card, you might be able to earn points or miles on flights that you can later use toward free travel. Some cards come with additional perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and airport lounge access—saving you money while enhancing your travel experience. Be sure to check if your credit card offers travel insurance or trip delay protection, which can save you unexpected expenses if things go awry.

9. Opt for Budget Airlines (and Know the Fine Print)

Budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Ryanair are notorious for their low prices—and for charging extra for almost everything. While the base ticket may be cheap, budget carriers often charge for seat selection, carry-on luggage, checked bags, and even printing a boarding pass at the airport. Before booking, check what’s included in the ticket price and weigh the final cost against a traditional airline. By packing light and skipping extras, budget airlines can be a great way to save on short flights.

10. Clear Your Browser Cookies

Have you ever noticed that flight prices sometimes seem to go up when you search multiple times? This can happen because travel sites track your browsing history through cookies. To avoid this, clear your browser history and cookies or use an incognito mode to search for flights without your browsing activity influencing the prices.

11. Consider Alternative Airports

Flying into or out of a smaller, secondary airport can sometimes save you money. Major cities often have multiple airports, and while one might be the main hub, the others sometimes offer lower fares. For example, in New York, checking fares for flights out of Newark or LaGuardia as well as JFK can reveal better deals. Just make sure to factor in any additional transportation costs when calculating the savings.

12. Holiday Deals and Flash Sales

Airlines often hold flash sales or release special offers around holidays, so keep an eye out for promotions. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other major sale days are known for discounts on flights. By signing up for airline newsletters or following them on social media, you’ll be among the first to know about these deals, which can help you score significant savings.

13. Consider Alternative Transportation for Part of the Trip

If your destination is reachable by a mix of transportation, consider taking a bus, train, or car rental for part of the journey. Sometimes breaking up a trip this way, especially on domestic routes, can save money and add a bit of adventure. Train travel, for instance, can be surprisingly affordable, especially when booked in advance, and it may offer a more scenic experience than flying.

14. Avoid Peak Travel Days

Traveling around peak days like holidays and longer weekends can be significantly more expensive. For holiday travel, consider flying the day before or after the holiday itself, as these days are usually cheaper than the holiday weekend.

Make Every Mile Count

Saving on airfare is possible with a few smart moves and some flexibility. By timing your bookings right, packing light, skipping extras, and taking advantage of rewards, you can cut down on flight costs and have more budget to enjoy your trip. And remember, the little savings from these tips add up, turning what could be a pricey journey into an affordable adventure. So, next time you’re planning a getaway, keep these strategies in mind. Happy travels, and here’s to budget-friendly skies!