The travel landscape has changed immensely over the past few years. New advancements have disrupted the industry, changing international travel from a luxury only few could afford to a more accessible experience for more people, Accommodation apps like Airbnb can connect travellers to low-cost lodging as an alternative to traditional hotels or motels, allowing people to spend more money on experiences and activities, food and drink, or shopping. Expensive airfares were also a struggle for many travellers and continue to be for some, but now there are several ways people can score good deals on their international flights to avoid breaking the bank.
Don’t let flight costs ruin your travel plans; here are a few tips on finding affordable flights for your next international holiday:
Compare low cost flights
If you don’t have a destination in mind yet, it can help you stay flexible so you can compare international flights for various locations and see where you can score low prices. You can find cheap flights using comparison websites or tools that will show you the different prices. This way, you can avoid paying more and pick the most affordable option. easyJet offers a low-fare finder tool where you can get an overview of flight prices to the destination of your choice or other places so you can find the cheapest dates and times available. Compare prices for locations like Greece, Italy, Spain, and more, which can not only guide you to lower costs but also a potentially new adventure. If you’re more of a spontaneous traveller, you can also find last-minute deals that can help you find the most affordable option, even if you’re booking close to your flight date.
Avoid the rush
Booking a flight time during the airport’s busiest hours or during peak and holiday seasons can increase flight prices due to the demand, and you’ll be competing with large crowds of fellow holidaymakers. Rather than going with the rush, opt for flight times when demand is lower, such as early morning flights or red-eye flights—flights that depart at night and arrive in the morning. Airports charge lower fees for their take-off spots at these times, which is why they’re cheaper. Avoid buying flights during peak travel seasons as well, as demand also causes more expensive airfares. Booking during the off-season can be cheaper, but you can also fly during the shoulder season, which is between the peak and off-season. You’ll see fewer tourists compared to busier, in-demand dates. Shoulder seasons vary depending on your destination, so doing some research can help you determine when to fly for cheaper prices.
Evade hidden fees
Even if you book an affordable international flight, hidden fees and surcharges can add to your costs, which can be frustrating and affect your careful budgeting. Airlines can charge you for priority boarding, flight alterations, onboard wi-fi, and even blankets; knowing what to expect can help you plan and budget accordingly to avoid these fees. Baggage fees are some of the more common ways you can get charged extra; if your checked-in bag is overweight, you may be charged per extra kilogram, and the costs depend on the airline. You can avoid such costs by purchasing your extras fees in one go when you buy your ticket so you know what prices you expect to pay. You can also pack smarter by wearing additional layers of clothing, rolling and folding your clothes to maximise space, or packing light in your carry-on bag to avoid checking in your luggage if possible. It also helps to be extra careful about planning your flight so you can avoid changing seats or flight details, which also come at a price.
Finding the perfect flight takes time and a little strategic planning. By following these tips and being flexible, you’ll be well on your way to securing affordable flights and turning your international getaway dream into a reality!
Photo is free to use under unsplash licence by Ross Parmly (@rparmly)
Post written in collaboration with Holly Bates.