Finding affordable flights can feel like a challenge, especially when you’re booking at the last minute. But don’t worry—scoring a deal on last-minute flights is possible with the right strategies. Whether you’re heading out on a spontaneous vacation or need to travel for an unexpected event, there are several ways to find budget-friendly options. In this guide, we’ll cover tips and tricks to help you get the best prices on last-minute flights.
Why Are Last-Minute Flights Often Expensive?
Airlines typically raise prices as the departure date gets closer because they assume that passengers booking last-minute flights are either traveling for urgent reasons or are willing to pay a premium. However, there are also opportunities to find discounted fares when airlines need to fill seats or adjust for cancellations. With flexibility and a few insider strategies, you can save money even on short notice.
1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Times
One of the most important factors in finding affordable last-minute flights is flexibility. Airlines often adjust prices based on demand, and certain days and times are typically cheaper than others.
Tips for Flexibility:
- Midweek Flights: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are often cheaper than weekends, as business travelers tend to fly on Mondays and Fridays.
- Early Morning or Late Night Flights: Flights that depart early in the morning or late at night are less popular and can be priced lower.
- Adjustable Return Dates: If you’re flexible with your return date, you might find more affordable options. Sometimes extending your trip by a day or two can lead to significant savings.
2. Use Flight Comparison Websites
When searching for last-minute flights, using flight comparison websites can help you quickly identify the best deals across multiple airlines. These platforms aggregate data from various airlines, making it easy to compare prices and find discounts.
Popular Flight Comparison Tools:
- Flight Aggregators: Websites and apps that allow you to compare prices across airlines include tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak.
- Fare Alerts: Many comparison sites offer fare alerts. Sign up for alerts to be notified when prices drop on routes you’re interested in.
- Explore Nearby Airports: If you’re flexible about your departure or arrival airport, look at flights from neighboring airports to increase your chances of finding a better deal.
3. Book Directly with Airlines for Special Deals
While flight comparison websites are excellent for finding initial deals, sometimes booking directly through the airline can yield even better offers, especially if they’re running special promotions or flash sales.
Why Book Directly:
- Airline Sales: Airlines often have last-minute sales that are exclusive to their websites. Keep an eye on airline promotions, especially for budget airlines.
- Customer Support: Booking directly with the airline makes it easier to manage any changes, and you’re less likely to encounter fees that third-party sites sometimes charge.
- Loyalty Programs: If you’re a member of a frequent flyer program, booking directly with the airline can help you earn points or miles for future travel.
4. Look for Last-Minute Deals on Travel Apps
Many airlines and travel companies offer exclusive deals through their mobile apps. Downloading a few of these apps could give you access to discounted prices that aren’t available on desktop sites.
Best Practices for Using Apps:
- Download Airline and Travel Apps: Apps like Hopper, Skyscanner, and airlines’ official apps often feature app-only discounts or flash sales.
- Check Last-Minute Tabs: Some travel apps have a dedicated section for last-minute deals or “deals of the day” that can offer incredible discounts.
- Enable Notifications: Turn on notifications for these apps so you’ll be instantly alerted when there’s a price drop or last-minute sale.
5. Take Advantage of Frequent Flyer Miles and Points
If you’ve accumulated frequent flyer miles, now might be the perfect time to use them for last-minute travel. Airlines often have unsold seats that are available for redemption through loyalty programs, and sometimes the points needed for last-minute bookings are lower than cash fares.
Tips for Maximizing Points:
- Check Points Redemption: Look into your frequent flyer or credit card reward points and check availability for your desired route.
- Use Points for Upgrades: If economy seats are expensive, but business or first-class seats are available, consider using your points to upgrade.
- Loyalty Program Perks: Many frequent flyer programs offer special last-minute deals to their members, so check your airline’s program for these promotions.
6. Consider Alternative Routes
When searching for last-minute flights, sometimes indirect routes can be cheaper than direct ones. While it might take you a little longer to get to your destination, booking a flight with a layover could save you significant money.
How to Find Alternative Routes:
- Use Multi-City Search: Some flight comparison sites allow you to search for multi-city or stopover routes that can reduce costs.
- Book Separate Legs: Instead of booking one ticket for a round-trip, search for separate one-way tickets. Sometimes, booking two different airlines for the outbound and return flights can result in lower fares.
- Layovers: Flights with layovers can often be less expensive than direct flights, especially if you’re willing to spend a few extra hours in transit.
7. Check for Last-Minute Vacation Packages
Last-minute vacation packages, which bundle flights with hotels or car rentals, can sometimes offer better deals than booking separately. Travel agencies and online booking platforms frequently offer these packages to fill up remaining slots.
Benefits of Vacation Packages:
- Bundled Savings: Booking your flight and hotel together may result in discounts that are cheaper than booking individually.
- Convenience: These packages are great for spontaneous trips as they handle multiple aspects of your travel in one purchase.
8. Sign Up for Newsletters and Deal Alerts
Many airlines and travel companies send out newsletters or email alerts featuring last-minute deals and flash sales. Signing up for these alerts can give you access to exclusive discounts that you wouldn’t find by searching manually.
How to Stay Informed:
- Join Airline Mailing Lists: Many airlines offer last-minute fare discounts to subscribers.
- Follow on Social Media: Airlines and travel websites often post last-minute deals on their social media pages, particularly on Twitter and Facebook.
- Use Deal Alert Sites: Sign up for alerts from websites like Secret Flying or Scott’s Cheap Flights, which specialize in finding great deals, including last-minute ones.
9. Travel Light to Avoid Extra Fees
Many budget airlines offer lower base fares for last-minute flights but charge additional fees for checked baggage, seat selection, and other extras. To keep your overall costs down, try to travel light and avoid these fees by packing only a carry-on.
Tips for Traveling Light:
- Pack a Carry-On: Most airlines allow a free carry-on and personal item, so pack efficiently to avoid paying for checked luggage.
- Weigh Your Bag: Make sure your carry-on meets the weight and size requirements to avoid last-minute surprises at the airport.
- Skip Seat Selection: Some airlines charge extra for pre-selecting seats. If you don’t have specific seating preferences, let the airline assign your seat for free.
Conclusion
Scoring the best deals on last-minute flights might seem challenging, but with flexibility, smart tools, and a bit of strategy, you can find budget-friendly options even on short notice. By keeping your travel dates open, utilizing comparison tools and apps, signing up for alerts, and traveling light, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the world of last-minute travel without breaking the bank. Happy travels!
