Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or a well-planned vacation, cheap flights can make a big difference in stretching your budget and allowing you to experience more during your trip.

But how do you find these affordable flights? How do you know which airline or website to trust? Read on as we explore everything you need to know about cheap flights and how to score them.

The first rule of finding cheap flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Airlines have what is known as yield management, which means that the prices of flights fluctuate depending on demand and availability. This is why you may see some days or times being more expensive than others. By being flexible with your travel dates, you increase your chances of finding a great deal.

Another important factor to consider is the time of year. Traveling during peak seasons such as summer or holidays means higher prices, while traveling during off-peak seasons will give you a better chance of finding cheap flights. Keep an eye out for shoulder seasons (the periods in-between peak and off-peak) as they can also offer lower prices.

Now that you know when to travel, let’s talk about where to find these cheap flights. The first and most obvious option is to book directly from the airline’s website. While this may not always be the cheapest option, it will give you the most transparency and control over your flight. However, if you are willing to take a bit more risk, third-party booking websites can offer significantly lower prices.

Online travel agencies such as Expedia, Skyscanner, and CheapOair have made it easier than ever to compare prices across different airlines and find the best deal. They also offer various filters and options to customize your search and find the cheapest flight that meets your preferences.

Another great option is to sign up for airline newsletters or follow them on social media. Airlines often offer flash sales or special promotions to their loyal customers, so keeping an eye out for these can lead to great deals. You can also set up price alerts on these websites or Google Flights, which will notify you when the price of your desired flight drops.

If you are willing to be a bit more adventurous, you can try your luck with budget airlines. These airlines often offer significantly lower prices compared to traditional airlines, but with some trade-offs. They may have stricter baggage restrictions, charge for extras such as seat selection or meals, and operate from smaller airports. However, if you are willing to compromise and plan accordingly, you can save a considerable amount of money by flying with budget airlines.

For those who are more spontaneous and open-minded, there are also websites such as Scott’s Cheap Flights and Secret Flying that share error fares and hidden deals. These are mistakes made by airlines or travel agencies, which sometimes result in ridiculously low prices. Keep in mind that these deals often come with very limited availability and usually sell out quickly, so you need to be ready to book at a moment’s notice.

Another tip for finding cheap flights is to consider alternate airports. Flying to a smaller or less popular airport may mean cheaper flights compared to major airports. Additionally, flying indirect may also save you money. While it may take longer, layovers can sometimes significantly lower the cost of the flight.

Last but certainly not least, it is important to be aware of hidden fees. Many airlines have started charging for things such as checked baggage, seat selection, and even carry-on bags. While the initial price may seem cheap, these fees can quickly add up and end up costing you more than a regular flight. Make sure to read the fine print and check the total cost before booking.

In conclusion, with some flexibility, research, and a bit of luck, it is possible to find cheap flights and make your travel dreams a reality. Keep in mind that finding a good deal may require some time and effort, but the savings and experiences you will gain are worth it. So pack your bags and start exploring - the world is waiting for you!