How do I find cheap flights?

Finding affordable flights often comes down to flexibility and using the right tools. Here are the most effective strategies:

• Use Flexible Search Tools: Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak are excellent because they allow you to view a calendar of prices. You can often see which days are cheapest to fly in a given month.
• Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations: If your travel dates are movable, you can save a significant amount. Using the "Explore" feature on Google Flights lets you type in your home airport and see a map of destinations with the lowest prices for various timeframes.
• Set Price Alerts: If you have a specific destination in mind, set up price alerts on platforms like Google Flights or Hopper. They will email or notify you when the fare drops, helping you avoid overpaying.
• Book at the "Sweet Spot": While there’s no single magic number, for domestic flights, booking 1–3 months in advance is often optimal; for international trips, 2–8 months is usually recommended. Avoid booking at the very last minute unless it is a specific deal.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into a secondary airport rather than the main international hub can save you money, even after accounting for the cost of ground transportation.
• Mix and Match Airlines: Don’t feel obligated to book a round-trip ticket with the same carrier. Booking two one-way tickets on different airlines can sometimes be cheaper than a single round-trip ticket.
• Clear Your Cookies or Use Incognito Mode: While debated, it is often recommended to use a private browsing window when searching for flights, as some sites may track your interest in a route and potentially show higher prices.

Do you have a specific destination or time of year in mind, or are you just looking to see what's available?