Travel is exciting, but it’s usually costly. But you can get cheap flights even when you book last minute with the right tools and tricks. Here is a step-by-step guide, as recommended by expert advice, on how to get cheap last-minute flights.
1. Be flexible with dates and destinations
Flexibility is the way to go when searching for last-minute flights. Prices fluctuate based on demand, and being flexible and willing to fly on weekdays or off-seasons can lead to significant savings. Moreover, flying into or out of other airports or secondary airports can help increase your options to find a cheap flight.
2. Use flight tracking tools and alerts
Flight tracking sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Airfarewatchdog allow you to monitor price fluctuations and be notified when prices drop. Implementing price alerts on your route ensures you are notified when a deal arises. The sites also help in determining patterns in price, and with this, you can reserve when to book.
3. Use airline newsletters and flash sales
Airlines will post last-minute deals through their newsletters or social media. Subscribing to them can give you advance warning of flash sales or promotional offers. These promotions are not guaranteed, but they can be a lifesaver for spontaneous travelers.
4. Consider one-way tickets
Purchasing two one-way tickets rather than a return ticket is sometimes more economical. This plan enables you to travel on different airlines for each leg of your trip, and occasionally you will find a better bargain. Check prices on both alternatives before you book.
5. Seek out flights with layovers
Convenience has a price when it comes to direct flights, though. If time is not an issue, reserve flights with layovers or extended connections. These routes are less traveled and therefore less expensive. Additionally, layovers in hub airports may provide more budget-friendly options.
6. Check nearby airports
Sometimes, it’s cheaper to enter or leave smaller regional airports rather than major destinations. Look with sites that will allow you to enter local airports as part of your search and look at fares for more than one airport location. It’s a great strategy to employ if you do not object to driving a longer distance for the less expensive ticket.
7. Employ travel miles and points
If you are in an airline rewards scheme or have points built up from credit cards, now is the time to redeem them. Most airlines have last-minute redemption of points or miles on flights that can earn you a significant amount of money.
8. Keep an eye on mistake fares
Error fares—airlines accidentally offering flights at very low prices—are not common but are well worth the chase. Sites such as Going (previously Scott’s Cheap Flights) inform subscribers about these sales. Act fast if you spot one, because they vanish quickly.
9. Book through vacation packages
A number of travel companies or package holiday firms offer discount prices on last-minute holidays due to cancellations. Direct contact with these firms can at times offer same-day deals on booked flights and lodging together.
10. Off-peak travel
Avoid peak travel times like holidays and summer vacations when the prices are highest. Opt for late fall or early spring when demand is low, increasing your chances of securing cheap flights.
11. Choose red-eye flights
Red-eye flights, or flights that leave later in the evening, are less in demand and thus more affordable than flights during the day. Red-eye flights are also less crowded, providing a smoother ride for a lower price.
12. Book at the best time
While officially last-minute bookings (under 24 hours) are expensive, statistics demonstrate that to reserve 2–3 weeks prior is optimal for maximum opportunity to acquire lower fare fares since airlines attempt to purge their excess seats46. Book whenever possible ahead slightly even on so-called “last-minute” journeys.
13. Individual and group tickets
If travelling in groups, check how much it will cost to buy tickets individually as opposed to as a group. In some instances, buying individually provides more affordable prices since special discount seats are limited in group bookings.
14. Play the waiting game carefully
Sometimes it’s worth waiting to the eleventh hour because prices are lowered by airlines to fill seats but this is a gamble and is best if you’re very flexible with your timing.
Final thoughts
Scoring cheap last-minute tickets takes flexibility, watchfulness, and the smart use of technology such as price monitoring and alerts. By being willing to consider other dates, endpoints, and routes—such as layovers or red-eye flights—you can save significantly on impromptu travel arrangements.
Armed with these master-tested tips, you’ll be in good stead to book cheap last-minute flights without going over budget!
Read more: So is the iPhone 16e, Apple’s new cheaper version of the iPhone 16 that has these adjusted prices
Read more: Babyganics children’s sunscreen recalled from stores – These are the products and stores affected
