How to find cheap flights: the definitive guide
The real techniques that work to pay less for your flights, with no tricks or myths.
Forget the myths
No, clearing your cookies does not lower prices. No, Tuesdays are not cheaper. These myths get repeated online but have no real basis. Flight prices depend on demand, the season, how far ahead you book and the airline's algorithm. What does work is comparing properly and being flexible.
Be flexible with dates
The difference between flying on a Wednesday and a Friday can be €100+. Use tools that show price calendars and search across date ranges. If you can move your trip by a week, you sometimes save 40%. September, October, January and February usually have the lowest prices for most destinations.
Be flexible with the destination
Instead of deciding "I want to go to Paris", think "I want to go somewhere interesting for under €50". Search with no specific destination to see what deals exist from your city. Sometimes you discover incredible destinations that weren't on your radar.
Book in advance (but not too far)
The sweet spot for flights within Europe is 6-8 weeks ahead. For intercontinental flights, 2-4 months. Booking a year in advance is rarely cheaper, and booking at the last minute is almost always more expensive (apart from the occasional last-minute deal).
Combine airlines
The cheapest flight is not always direct or with the same airline both ways. Sometimes it is cheaper to buy the outbound with Ryanair and the return with Vueling. Comparators like Flamaz show you all the combinations.
Use price alerts
If you are not in a hurry, set up alerts. Flight prices fluctuate constantly. A route that costs €150 today may drop to €80 next week. Alerts notify you automatically when the price falls below the threshold you choose.
Consider alternative airports
Flying to Girona instead of Barcelona, Beauvais instead of Paris, or Bergamo instead of Milan can save you a lot. That said, factor in the cost of transport to the city centre — sometimes the flight savings are lost on the taxi.
