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Here’s how to save money on airline tickets with these 3 tips

Here’s how to save money on airline tickets with these 3 tips

Air travel has become increasingly expensive over time, from dangerous security incidents in Boieng to mishaps that forced airlines to change the way they do business. Reduce the availability of flights, perhaps including on less used routes or routes with multiple options per day. However, with a few exceptions, prices have actually fallen this year.

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If you’re hoping to fly soon, consider booking your flight now to save money. As summer travel winds down and the industry is shaken up by increased scrutiny of fleet safety, now could be the perfect time to snag some cheap flights.

Here’s what you need to know about how to get airline tickets for less than the highest ticket price. From the cheapest day to fly to our picks for the best travel credit cards, we’ll give you the tips you need to find cheap flights.

Read more: After 500 flights, this travel expert shares his best savings secrets

Book your flights for midweek

If you’ve planned your flights to take off and land on the weekend, you’re doing it all wrong. According to a recent Google study, you’ll get the best deal if you fly in the middle of the week. On these days, tickets are around 12 to 20% cheaper than on a weekend day.

For economy tickets, prices are generally 24% lower than peak prices on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, saving you about $85 per ticket, CNET’s Sophia Fox-Sowell reports.

The most expensive day to fly? Sunday. Avoid scheduling flights for this day if you want to save money.

Book one-way flights instead of return flights – with that certain something

Booking round-trip flights may not be as convenient as round-trip flights, but it does give you more choices. You can book with different airlines at the best prices on the days you want to fly. For example, Delta may be cheaper when you fly to your destination, but American Airlines may be cheaper when you return.

“There have been many cases where booking two one-way flights on two different airlines was cheaper than booking a round-trip flight on a single airline,” says The Points Guy.

You can also use frequent flyer miles and Travel rewards points from credit cards to save even more money.

Sit back and relax with a low-cost airline

If you want to save a little more money when flying, consider booking through a budget airline. They are generally cheaper than larger airlines like United and Delta and can save you hundreds of dollars.

However, you’ll likely have to pay additional fees for carry-on luggage and other amenities that are generally free on other airlines. You will also be assigned a random seat unless you pay to choose your seat, which can be inconvenient if you are flying with a group and want to sit together. You need to make sure you add up each cost and tax to make sure you’re actually saving money.

However, with the right trip and the right traveler, packing your own water and snacks, as well as skipping clothing and amenities, can save you hundreds if you’re willing to forego certain amenities. Short-haul flights and relaxed weekend trips are particularly suitable for low-cost airlines.

Here is a list of low-cost airlines in the USA:

For more travel tips, see Find out whether travel insurance is worth it and expert tips for choosing and packing carry-on luggage.

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