Never Overpay for Airfare With These 5 Tips to Get Cheaper Plane Tickets

Travelers across the US have been able to take advantage of lower airfare in 2024 after a year marked by extreme, inflated ticket prices. While prices have generally fallen, some destinations are actually getting more expensive, especially at certain times of the year. 

If you plan to fly soon, consider booking your flight now to save money. “Shoulder season,” the period immediately following the peak summer season, is usually a prime window to score some cheap flights.

I’ve already written about key travel trends in 2024, but now I’ve compiled more tips on how to save money on airfare. Here’s what you need to know about getting plane tickets for less than the sticker 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 score affordable flights.

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Aim to fly mid-week

Booking flights to take off and land on the weekend is costing you. Per Google Flights data, the most cost-effective flights are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with Tuesday emerging as the most economical day based on past flight records. Opting to fly during the early to middle part of the week can result in savings of 13% to 20% on ticket prices compared to weekend flights on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, with Sunday standing out as the priciest day for flying. 

While Google Flights data show there isn’t a best day to book flights, the actual day you travel does matter when it comes to cost. Avoid flying on a weekend day for the best rates. 

Consider a budget airline

If cost is more of a priority when flying, consider booking through a budget airline. Budget airlines are often smaller, less luxurious and have fewer flight options, but they can also save you hundreds of dollars over larger airlines, such as American, United and Delta.