Airfare prices can be unpredictable, but savvy travelers know how to work around the system to find cheaper options. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo adventure, here are some real-world examples and practical tips to save money on flights in 2025.
1. Book Flights During Airlines’ Annual Sales
Airlines like Emirates, Delta, and Qatar Airways host annual sales, usually in January and September. These events are goldmines for discounted tickets.
Real Example:
In January 2024, Emirates offered round-trip flights from New York (JFK) to Dubai for $699 during their annual sale, compared to the usual $1,200 price. Travelers planning trips for early 2025 scored big by booking early.
2. Use Flight-Hacking Techniques
Tools like Skiplagged let travelers exploit pricing loopholes such as “hidden-city ticketing,” where you book a flight with a layover in your actual destination and skip the last leg.
Real Example:
In 2024, a traveler from Chicago to Orlando saved $150 by booking a flight to Miami with a layover in Orlando. He exited in Orlando, skipping the Miami leg, thanks to Skiplagged.
3. Fly Midweek or at Odd Hours
Flying on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, is consistently cheaper than weekends. Similarly, red-eye flights or early morning departures are often discounted.
Real Example:
In March 2024, flights from Los Angeles to Tokyo cost $980 on a Friday but dropped to $750 for departures on a Wednesday. Travelers saved $230 simply by adjusting their departure date.
4. Use Frequent Flyer Miles or Credit Card Points
Loyalty programs and co-branded travel cards often help travelers redeem points for free or discounted flights (source).
Real Example:
A travel blogger in Austin, Texas, used 60,000 Chase Sapphire points in late 2024 to book a round-trip flight to London on British Airways, avoiding the $850 cash fare. By accumulating points on everyday purchases, she traveled essentially for free.
5. Monitor Error Fares
Airlines sometimes post error fares, where a pricing mistake offers flights at heavily discounted rates. Websites like Secret Flying and Airfare Watchdog alert users to these deals.
Real Example:
In September 2023, Lufthansa accidentally listed round-trip flights from New York (JFK) to Copenhagen for $275 instead of the usual $700. Travelers who booked immediately before the fare was corrected scored a massive deal.
6. Travel During Shoulder Seasons
The weeks before or after peak travel times often offer lower fares while still enjoying good weather at your destination.
Real Example:
In November 2024, flights from London to Rome dropped from £180 in the peak summer season to just £85 round trip. Travelers enjoyed fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation as a bonus.
7. Subscribe to Fare Alerts
Websites and apps like Google Flights, Hopper, and Kayak allow users to set price alerts for specific routes.
Real Example:
In June 2024, a family in Atlanta saved $600 on flights to Cancun by setting up a fare alert on Google Flights. They booked when the price dropped from $550 to $350 per person.
8. Fly Budget Airlines for Short Trips
Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Spirit Airlines often offer unbeatable prices for short-haul flights.
Real Example:
In December 2024, a traveler in Europe booked a flight from London to Milan with Ryanair for just £9.99 during a flash sale. While the ticket didn’t include baggage, he saved over £100 compared to traditional carriers.
9. Consider Layover Routes for Savings
Flights with stopovers are often cheaper than direct flights. Some airlines even offer free stopover programs to attract tourism.
Real Example:
In 2024, Qatar Airways offered free stopovers in Doha for flights connecting to Asia or Africa. A traveler flying from Boston to Bangkok saved $300 by choosing a flight with a 12-hour stopover in Doha and enjoyed a free hotel stay, courtesy of the airline.
10. Check Local and Regional Airlines
When traveling within a region, regional airlines or even buses and trains might offer more affordable options than international carriers.
Real Example:
In June 2024, travelers in Southeast Asia used AirAsia to fly from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur for just $40. Meanwhile, global carriers quoted $150 for the same route.
11. Book Group Deals for Families
Airlines often provide discounts for group bookings. Websites like Expedia or Orbitz bundle flights with hotels for added savings.
Real Example:
In April 2024, a family of four traveling from Miami to San Juan, Puerto Rico, saved $200 per person by bundling their flight and hotel via Expedia compared to booking separately.
12. Keep an Eye on Flash Sales
Airlines frequently post flash sales for last-minute bookings or promotional events. Following airlines on social media can keep you updated.
Real Example:
In October 2024, JetBlue hosted a flash sale with domestic flights across the U.S. starting at $31 one way. Travelers who booked within the 24-hour window enjoyed huge savings.
Final Tips for 2025 Travelers
Saving on flights in 2025 requires vigilance, planning, and a bit of flexibility. By using these proven techniques and learning from real-world examples, you can make your dream trip more affordable.
Where will you save on your next flight?
