Traveling internationally can be an expensive endeavor, especially when it comes to airfare. However, there are ways to get discounts on international flights. In this guide, we’ll explore tips on how to get discounts on international flights, including strategies for finding the best deals and using loyalty programs and credit card rewards to save money.
Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations:
Being flexible with your travel dates and destinations is one of the easiest ways to get discounts on international flights. Airlines often have lower prices during the off-peak season, so traveling during the shoulder season or offseason can save you money. Additionally, consider traveling to alternative destinations or airports, which may have lower fees and taxes. By being flexible with your travel plans, you can take advantage of the best deals and save money on international flights.
Use Flight Search Engines:
Using flight search engines is a great way to find the best deals on international flights. These search engines compare prices across multiple airlines and travel websites, making it easier to find the cheapest fares. Some popular flight search engines include Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights. Additionally, consider setting up price alerts on these websites or airline websites to get notifications when prices drop.
Book Flights in Advance:
Booking international flights in advance can save you money. Prices tend to rise as the departure date gets closer, so it’s best to book your flight as early as possible. Most airlines release their schedules and ticket prices 11 months in advance, so keep an eye out for sales and promotions during this time. Additionally, consider booking your flight during flash sales, which occur periodically and offer discounted ticket prices.
Take Advantage of Airline Rewards Programs:
Airline rewards programs are a great way to save money on international flights. These programs allow you to earn points or miles when you fly, which can be redeemed for free or discounted flights. Most major airlines have rewards programs, and some airlines also offer credit cards that earn points or miles with each purchase. Additionally, some airlines offer promotions and bonuses for signing up for their rewards programs or credit cards.
Use Credit Card Rewards:
Using credit card rewards is another way to save money on international flights. Many credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or miles for each purchase. These points or miles can then be redeemed for free or discounted flights. Additionally, some credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, which can be used towards your next international flight.
Book One-Way Tickets:
Booking a one-way ticket instead of a round-trip ticket can save you money in certain situations. For example, if you plan on traveling to multiple destinations and don’t have a set return date, booking one-way tickets can be cheaper than booking a round-trip ticket. Additionally, if you’re using a rewards program or credit card rewards to book your flight, booking one-way tickets may allow you to stretch your rewards further.
Consider Budget Airlines:
Budget airlines are a great option for travelers looking to save money on international flights. These airlines often have lower ticket prices than traditional airlines, but may charge additional fees for luggage, seat selection, or in-flight amenities. Some popular budget airlines include Ryanair, EasyJet, and AirAsia.
Book Connecting Flights:
Booking connecting flights instead of direct flights can save you money on international flights. While direct flights may be more convenient, they can also be more expensive. Additionally, some airlines offer discounted rates for connecting flights, which can be a great way to save money.
Take Advantage of Student or Youth Discounts:
If you’re a student or under 30 years old, you may be eligible for student or youth discounts on international flights. Many airlines offer discounted rates for students and young adults, so be sure to check with your airline to see if you qualify for these discounts.
Book with Local Travel Agents:
Booking with local travel agents can also be a great way to get discounts on international flights. Local travel agents often have access to special deals and promotions that may not be available online. Additionally, they can offer personalized advice and recommendations based on their knowledge and experience. It’s worth researching local travel agents in your area or the destination you plan to visit and comparing their prices and services.
Use Discount Codes:
Using discount codes can be another way to save money on international flights. Some airlines and travel websites offer promotional codes or coupons that can be used towards the cost of your flight. These codes may be available through social media, email newsletters, or other marketing channels. It’s worth keeping an eye out for these codes and using them when you book your international flight.
Book During Sales and Promotions:
Booking during sales and promotions is another way to save money on international flights. Many airlines offer discounts and promotions during certain times of the year, such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Additionally, some airlines offer discounts for specific groups, such as military members or senior citizens. It’s worth checking with your airline or travel website to see if there are any current sales or promotions.
15 Hacks to International Flights
Be flexible with your travel dates. Flights are generally cheaper on weekdays and during off-peak seasons.
Set up price alerts on airline websites or use a flight search engine to track prices and get notifications when they drop.
Be willing to fly on budget airlines, which often have cheaper ticket prices but may charge additional fees for luggage or amenities.
Look for connecting flights instead of direct flights, as they are often cheaper.
Consider flying into alternative airports or cities, which may have lower fees and taxes.
Book flights well in advance, as prices tend to rise as the departure date gets closer.
Use airline rewards programs or credit card points to redeem for free or discounted flights.
Sign up for airline newsletters or follow them on social media to be notified of promotions and deals.
Compare prices across multiple airlines and travel websites to find the best deal.
Book flights during flash sales, which occur periodically and offer discounted ticket prices.
Book flights during low-demand hours, such as early morning or late at night.
Be open to taking a red-eye flight or overnight flight, as they are often cheaper.
Consider booking a one-way ticket instead of a round-trip ticket, which may be cheaper in certain situations.
Use a VPN to access flight prices from different countries and potentially save money.
Negotiate with travel agents or airlines directly for better deals or discounts.
Getting discounts on international flights requires some research and strategy, but it’s entirely possible. By being flexible with your travel dates and destinations, using flight search engines, booking in advance, taking advantage of airline rewards programs and credit card rewards, considering budget airlines, booking connecting flights, using local travel agents, using discount codes, and booking during sales and promotions, you can save money on your international flights. So start planning your next international adventure and use these tips to find the best deals and save money.
