How to find cheap flights without falling into an internet black hole? If you’ve ever spent 3+ hours opening dozens of tabs, trying to outsmart the algorithm, this post is for you.
After years of trial, error, and impulse Ryanair tickets, here are the no-BS strategies I use to book the cheapest flights fast — and without needing a master’s degree in incognito mode.
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Use the Right Tools First
Before wasting time on random aggregators, start with proven tools:
Google Flights — Best for fast search, flexible calendar, and route exploration
WayAway — Flight search plus cashback when you book (affiliate)
Skyscanner — Good for “Everywhere” searches and mobile alerts
Omio — Great for comparing flights with trains and buses in Europe (affiliate)
Pro tip: Open just 2–3 tabs. Most of these tools now show very similar prices, so no need to go full conspiracy-theorist mode.
Stay Flexible (When Possible)
If you want the cheapest flights, dates and airports matter more than booking magic.
Use Google Flights or Skyscanner flexible calendar to see cheapest dates
Check nearby airports (e.g. flying into Milan instead of Florence)
Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekends
Early morning or late-night flights tend to cost less
Even shifting your trip by one day can drop the price by 30% or more.
Avoid These Rookie Mistakes
You might be wasting time (and money) if you:
Always search from your home airport instead of checking alternatives
Book too early (or too late) — the sweet spot is usually 1–2 months ahead
Search without clearing cookies (Google Flights is fine, others may vary)
Skip comparing total trip costs (e.g. landing far away = higher transport costs)
One-Way vs Round Trip: What’s Better?
Check one-ways separately — sometimes two one-ways are cheaper than a round trip
On budget airlines (like Ryanair or WizzAir), round-trip discounts are rare
Mix and match airlines if it saves you money
Bonus Tools for Finding Deals
WayAway Plus — Upgrade to get cashback and city guides with flight deals (affiliate)
Hopper app — Predicts if prices will rise or fall (better for U.S. flights)
Flight Deal newsletters — Subscribe to sites like Secret Flying or Scott’s Cheap Flights
Also check for airline promo codes and mistake fares. Reddit’s r/Flights or travel subreddits often surface hidden gems.
Summary: Cheap Flight Checklist
Start with Google Flights and WayAway
Be flexible with dates and airports
Don’t open 20 tabs
Always compare total costs (flight + transport)
Use flight deal alerts if you’re not in a rush
Booking cheap flights doesn’t have to be a part-time job.