The end of the year is the perfect time to go on vacation, whether domestically or internationally. Itâs also a crucial period to hunt for cheap flight tickets. Finding affordable airline tickets can be a challenge, especially if youâre unfamiliar with the best strategies to do so. However, with the right approach, you can secure cheap flights without sacrificing travel comfort.
This article outlines several practical tips for buying cheap flight tickets, from booking timing to using the right search tools.
1. Book Tickets Well in Advance
Most airlines apply dynamic pricing, where ticket prices are cheaper when booked well ahead of the departure date. Airlines often offer lower prices at the beginning of ticket sales to attract early buyers. The closer it gets to the departure date, the more expensive the ticket becomes.
By booking early, not only can you avoid price spikes, but you also get the opportunity to enjoy early bird promotions or discounts. Booking in advance also means better seat selection options.
2. Choose to Fly During Low Season
Generally, flight tickets are cheaper when travel demand is low, which usually happens during the low season. This period typically falls outside of school holidays, religious festivals, or long holiday seasons.
Flying during the low season also means fewer crowds at the airport and on the plane, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
3. Hunt for Promotions and Discounts by Subscribing to Newsletters
Many airlines and ticket booking platforms regularly send out special offers, flash sales, or exclusive discounts to subscribers of their newsletters. A newsletter is an email containing promotional or informational content sent to customers.
By subscribing, youâll get up-to-date information on great deals that offer cheaper tickets. Some airlines even give newsletter subscribers early access to discounts before they are publicly announced.
4. Compare Ticket Prices by Flight Time and Airline
Ticket prices can vary depending on the time of departure and the airline chosen. For example, flights during off-peak hoursâsuch as late at night or early in the morningâare often cheaper because fewer people prefer those times. Midweek flights, like on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, also tend to be more affordable.
The choice of airline also affects ticket prices. Different airlines may offer widely varying prices for the same route.
Low-cost carriers (LCCs) often have cheaper fares but with limited services, while full-service carriers usually charge more but offer additional amenities. In Indonesia, Citilink, AirAsia, and Lion Air are examples of LCCs, whereas Garuda Indonesia and Batik Air are full-service carriers.
By comparing prices and being flexible with your flight times and airline choices, you can find more affordable tickets that still meet your travel needs.
5. Take Advantage of Travel Fairs
Travel fairs are annual events held by various domestic and international airlines. These fairs often feature major discounts and exclusive promotions that are not available outside the event.
During travel fairs, airlines, travel agents, and service providers compete by offering limited-time deals on flight tickets, vacation packages, and bundled offers.
If youâre planning a trip by plane, attending a travel fair can be a golden opportunity to purchase tickets at much lower prices than usual.
6. Use Google Flights Features
Google Flights is a highly useful flight search platform that helps you find the best prices. One of its key features is the ability to quickly and easily compare flight prices from different airlines.
It allows you to view a range of flight options for your desired dates and destinations, complete with prices across multiple airlines.
Google Flights also includes a âPrice Graphâ feature that shows predictions on whether ticket prices are expected to rise or fall in the near future. This helps you decide the best time to buy, so you can book at a lower price.
By applying these various tipsâsuch as booking in advance and using comparison toolsâyou can secure cheap flight tickets and plan your travels more cost-effectively.
So from now on, make sure you always use these strategies whenever planning a trip by air, and enjoy the experience of flying at a more affordable price!