Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
Want to find cheap flights no matter where you’re going? Timing, flexibility, and smart searching make a big difference. These simple tips can help you book airline tickets at the lowest possible price—whether you’re flying nearby or around the world.
Cheap Flights: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best day to buy cheap airline tickets?
Sunday is usually the cheapest day to book flights for both U.S. and international travel. Friday is often the most expensive day to book. Booking on the right day can save you up to 6% on airfare, based on past pricing trends.
When is the best time to buy airline tickets?
For domestic flights, prices often start rising about 8 weeks (56 days) before departure. For international flights, prices may increase around 3 weeks (21 days) before departure. Prices can change quickly, so it’s smart to monitor fares and set up price alerts.
What are the cheapest days to fly?
Flying on Friday is often cheaper than flying on Sunday. Since many travelers start trips on Sundays, prices tend to be higher. Departing on a Friday can save you nearly 11% compared to Sunday flights.
What is the cheapest month to fly?
It depends on your destination:
- International flights: November is usually the cheapest month; February is often the most expensive
- Domestic flights: August tends to be the cheapest; March is often the most expensive
Flying in the off-season can save you up to 35% or more.
How can I find the cheapest flights on Expedia?
Expedia lets you compare prices from many airlines in one place. To find cheap flights:
- Be flexible with dates and airports
- Compare nonstop vs. layover flights
- Sort results by lowest price
- Join Expedia’s free rewards program to unlock member-only deals
How can I save money on flights?
You can save by:
- Booking flights on Sunday
- Flying on Fridays
- Mixing airlines and fare types
- Choosing economy instead of premium cabins
- Filtering for budget-friendly flights (like flights under $200)
How can I get cheap last-minute flight deals?
Cheap last-minute flights are still possible:
- Domestic flights: Best deals around 3 weeks before departure
- International flights: Economy fares are best at least 4 weeks out
Stay flexible with travel dates, airports, and stops to find the lowest prices.
How do I book flights?
Booking a flight is easy:
- Enter your travel dates
- Choose your departure and arrival cities
- Review available flights
- Use filters for airlines, stops, times, baggage, and refunds
- Select one-way, round-trip, or multicity flights
What should I check before booking a flight?
Before booking, review:
- Baggage rules and fees
- Airport location
- Number of stops
- Flight class (economy vs. premium)
- Refund and change policies
Choosing the right airport and fare type can save both time and money.
Where is the cheapest place to travel?
Popular low-cost destinations include:
- Chicago – Affordable flights from most U.S. cities
- Las Vegas – Competitive pricing due to many airlines
High competition usually means lower fares.
Where can I fly for cheap?
Budget-friendly destinations include:
- Puerto Rico – No passport needed for U.S. travelers
- Canada (like Alberta) – Often affordable international fares
Is it cheaper to buy flights last-minute?
Sometimes. Prices usually increase:
- 3 weeks before departure for domestic flights
- 4 weeks for international flights
Last-minute deals depend on demand and availability.
Are refundable flights available?
Yes. Fully refundable flights are clearly labeled and can be filtered in search results. Always review the airline’s refund policy before booking.
Why book flights?
Booking flights through Expedia lets you:
- Compare airlines and prices easily
- Bundle flights with hotels and car rentals
- Earn rewards on eligible bookings
- Save more with package deals and member discounts
