7 Tips for Saving Money on Airfare This Summer
Summer travel can create memories that last a lifetime.
But it can also be expensive, especially when airfare prices start climbing. Planning ahead can save money and make the trip more enjoyable.
Here are a few smart strategies that can make a big difference in the cost of a flight.
Read This: 3 Ways Credit Card Rewards Will Let You Travel Free or Cheap
Trending Now: 9 Subtly Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money — That You Should Do, Too
Be Flexible
Being flexible when planning a flight helps save on airfare. Flying during the week is usually less expensive and easier to book than on weekends, according to Capital One. Booking a couple of months earlier may offer a more affordable flight cost than waiting to purchase closer to the departure date, per Landing.
Also, check other airports that offer the same travel destination but cost less than major airports.
Another way to save is to be flexible enough to find an affordable ticket and then plan a trip around it.
Choose the Right Seasonal
Travel during the off-peak or low season to save money when booking flights, according to Capital One. Avoid peak travel seasons (e.g., going to Colorado or Utah during the ski season) when airfare tends to be higher.
Winter is one of the best times to book a less-expensive flight (except during the holidays), per CheapAir. Fall and spring also offer opportunities for lower-priced airfare. Summer is the most popular time to travel, but with some strategizing, it is possible to find affordable prices.
Fly on Holidays
Airlines make money by raising rates during the holidays, according to Landing, which is why flying then can be expensive. But if it is possible to fly on the actual holiday (Christmas or Thanksgiving), ticket prices might be lower, according to Capital One.
If extending a stay is not a problem, consider checking on prices several days before and after the holiday. These are possible days when there may be fewer people traveling, per Landing.
Set Up Price Alerts
Setting price alerts can help you plan a flight at a time when prices drop, according to Travel + Leisure. Capital One Travel can help save an average of 15% on airfare. If you book when Capital One Travel recommends and the price drops within 10 days, you could receive up to a $50 travel credit through its free price-drop protection. Other options, such as Skyscanner or Google Flights, can also set alerts to notify you when airfare drops.
When planning a trip to a specific destination, use price tracking over several months to check for affordable price drops.
Choose Connecting Flights
Even though connecting flights may take longer than direct flights, you could save money. With a direct flight, you are paying more for convenience.
Travel To Places That Are More Affordable
Check prices for destinations that tend to have warmer summers, such as Mexico or the Caribbean, per Travel + Leisure. These areas have a lot of competition from lower-cost carriers.
Use Your Credit Card Rewards
Use credit card rewards like Capital One Venture X or Venture, which allow you to earn unlimited miles on purchases, according to Capital One. If you use your Venture or Venture X card and book your flight with Capital One Travel, you can earn 5x miles on flights.
Summer spending adds up fast. Enter MoneyLion's Summer Break Giveaway for a chance to win $500 — and give your budget a break. (No pur. nec. Ends 7/4/26. See official rules at mlion.info/summerbreakofficialrules)
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
More From MoneyLion: