By Mike | October 3, 2019

One of the most significant expenses (and headaches) when it comes to travel is airfare. Between price swings, connections, and the cumbersome cost, it’s no wonder airfare is such a hassle. So how can the traveler save on airfare?

In this post, I’ll give you four easy ways to save big on airfare. As a frequent hiker and traveler, I’ve learned a few tricks along my way. The tips are for anyone who can use them to book more trips, travel more, and fly in comfort.

Kate previously covered some travel hacks to save money but mostly focused on trip planning. I figured it’d be useful to review ways to save on airfares.

#1 – Credit Cards

4 Easy Ways to Save on Airfare

Let’s start with the big one: a way to save on airfares – credit cards.

Before you clap back and say, “Credit is bad! 23% interest rates!” …I know. Credit cards can be harmful if misused.

However, if you utilize credit cards intelligently, they can be a lifesaver.

Credit card companies provide certain perks to incentivize people to sign up for their cards. The two main features are sign-up bonuses and points.

Sign-up bonuses are these massive bounties credit cards will pay you when you open an account with them. These bonuses can range from $100 to $1000.

Rewards points are similar, but accrue as you use your card. They range in value from 1-5% back on your purchases.

So, if you spend $1000 a month on your card, you’ll get anywhere from $10-$50 back each month. That’s enough to afford you a flight every few months or so.

Some cards will even offer free checked luggage, which can save you a lot.

But make sure you pay off your card on time every month to avoid racking up fees and interest.

#2 – Window Shop to Save on Airfares

4 Easy Ways to Save on Airfare

The second tip to save on airfares is to shop around for flights. One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when finding a trip is purchasing the first one that meets their specs.

Wrong!

Instead of diving in and just purchasing whatever you find, take your time and shop around for flights.

It’s the twenty-first century, and we have some spectacular tools in our hands. There are tons of websites out there that scour the internet, finding you the best deals. There’s no reason not to utilize them before you buy.

My favorite way to save on airfares is to search for flights on these flight-saving websites:

1. Skyscanner – hands down the best search engine for flights
2. Google Flights – easy to use and searches well, but not the best prices

There are a handful of other options out there as well:

• JetRadar
• Kiwi
• Kayak
• AirWander
• CheapOair

The best way to use these tools is to create an account and input where you want to go. Then, use the tools to keep tabs on your trips. You’ll find that prices fluctuate up and down, and these tools help you save big.

Patience pays off!

#3 – Finesse The Flights to Save on Airfares

4 Easy Ways to Save on Airfare

Don’t let these travel tools limit your ability to save on airfares. Check on Saturday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in Cognito, and then save the location and ask Google for alerts to watch fares

There are still a handful of ways to save money that the airlines don’t want you to know.

Book your connections – airlines will sometimes mark up connections for you. You can save money by selecting two flights and using connections; it helps. This will also allow you to select times and routes that airlines typically wouldn’t.

Check different cities – there are so many cities out there these days that you might be able to save money by avoiding your destination. With the proliferation of public transportation and, of course, Uber, you can save money by going to a different city than your target.

Incognito mode – airlines are smart, and they do track your data. They’re probably increasing prices based on your location or browsing history. To fix this, open up Incognito mode and see the best rates.

#4 – Prepare!

4 Easy Ways to Save on Airfare

Last but not least, make a plan to save on airfares well in advance and buy travel insurance.

Even if you don’t do a ton of research, buying your flight weeks or months out will save you money.

By being mindful of when you want to travel, you can cut the line and slash costs at the same time.

This tip will also help you budget for your trip by giving you time to set aside some spending cash.

Save on Airfares and Take-Off

There you have it: three ways to save big on flights.

Traveling can be daunting, and I know firsthand that the expenses are a significant portion of the trouble. I hope these tips helped you save some cash.

This was a guest post by Mike from WildernessTimes.com.

Another Travel Tip: In case you are looking for a planning list for Meds. Try Kate’s Best Travel Medication List.