Travelers across the United States were able to enjoy lower airfare in 2024 after a year marked by extreme and inflated ticket prices. Prices have generally fallen, but some destinations are even becoming more expensive, especially at certain times of the year. This is especially true during the holidays, as demand can push domestic flights upwards of $500 for a round trip. It's already an expensive time of year, so it's important to save where you can – and reducing your airfare costs is a good place to start.
I already have writes about the top travel trends in 2024but I have now compiled more tips on how to save money on plane tickets. Here's what you need to know to get plane tickets for less than the sticker price. From the cheapest day to fly to our choices for the best travel credit cardswe'll give you the advice you need to get affordable flights.
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Try flying midweek
Booking flights to take off and land on weekends costs you money. According to Google Flights dataThe most cost-effective flights are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with Tuesday appearing as the most economical day based on past flight records. Choosing to travel early to mid-week can result in savings of 13-20% on ticket prices compared to weekend flights on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, with Sunday being the most expensive day for fly.
Data from Google Flights shows that there is no specific “best” day to book flights, but the actual day of your trip matters when it comes to cost. Avoid flying on a weekend day to get the best rates.
Consider a Low-Cost Airline
If cost is a priority when traveling, consider booking with a budget airline. Budget airlines are often smaller, less luxurious, and offer fewer flight options, but they can also save you hundreds of dollars compared to larger airlines, like American, United, and Delta.
Here is a list of low-cost airlines in the United States:
Budget airlines often ask you to give up certain amenities for cheaper fares. For example, you'll likely pay extra for carry-on bags and other amenities that are usually free on budget airlines. You will also have to pay to select your seat on the plane or be assigned randomly. It's best to add up these fees to make sure you're actually saving money in the long run.
Skipping out on major airline amenities could save you hundreds of dollars on your trip. Short-haul flights and casual weekend getaways are particularly suitable for budget airlines.
Take advantage of one-way flights and stopovers
Booking one-way flights may not be as convenient as round-trip tickets, but it gives you more options in terms of price: you can book with different airlines to get the best prices on different days where you plan to travel. For example, Delta may get you to your destination for less money, but American Airlines may be cheaper for return flights.
For more savings, and especially if your schedule is flexible, consider booking a flight with one or more stopovers. It's no surprise that flights with stopovers are cheaper than nonstop flights, but you may not realize just how significant the savings can be. Travelers can save 25% by booking a flight with a stopover instead of a non-stop flight, according to Google Flight data.
Use a travel credit card
You can use frequent flyer miles and rewards travel credit card points to save even more money. Travel credit cards work by rewarding you with points or miles for travel-related and everyday expenses. After you collect enough points or miles, you can redeem them for perks like plane tickets and hotel stays. A travel credit card can even give you extra points or miles when you use it for travel purchases, but rates vary.
Some airlines, like United and Delta, have their own credit cards that pay in miles, which can be redeemed for “free” flights or upgrades, and may offer perks such as priority boarding and checked baggage free.
Using a travel credit card for purchases can earn you rewards like discounted flights, upgrades, priority boarding, and a free checked bag.
Try travel apps and features to find flight deals
Automated apps and features can make finding cheap flights easier. Travelers can use apps such as On the way (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights) to discover flight deals. Going uses software and flight experts to merge misquotes and fares (when an airline or travel agency quotes an incorrect price for a plane ticket that is much lower than its value) up to 90 % off, then emails these discounted flights to members.
Apps like Going use software to discover the cheapest domestic and international flights available.
Google Flights also recently revealed a new “Cheaper” tab on its platform to help travelers save money and easily find ultra-cheap flights. To get started, simply enter your trip details and tap the 'Cheapest' tab to browse the lowest priced options available.
For more travel tips, know if travel insurance is worth the cost And expert tips for choosing and packing your carry-on luggage.
