Finding affordable flights can be a challenge, but with the right tools and strategies, you can save a lot of money. Google Flights is one of the best tools for this purpose. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use Google Flights to get the best deals and why you should always start your airfare search with this powerful tool.
Why Google Flights?
Google Flights is a comprehensive flight search engine that offers a variety of features to help you find the best airfare. It pulls data from numerous airlines and travel portals, giving you a wide range of options. Plus, its user-friendly interface and advanced features make it easy to compare prices and track fare changes.
Start with Google Flights
Begin your search on Google Flights for several reasons:
- Comprehensive Search: Google Flights aggregates flight data from multiple airlines and booking sites, offering a broad view of available options.
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform is easy to navigate, with features like calendar views, price tracking, and more.
- Flexible Search Options: You can search for flights to multiple destinations and on various dates, making it easy to find the cheapest options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Saving Money with Google Flights
1. Use the “Explore” Feature
The “Explore” feature on Google Flights is a fantastic way to discover cheap flights. Here’s how to use it:
- Access the Explore Map: Click on the “Explore” tab to view a map showing prices for different destinations.
- Adjust Filters: Use filters like budget, duration, and interests to narrow down your options.
- Flexible Dates: If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can see the cheapest times to fly to various locations.
2. Set Up Price Alerts
Price alerts are a great way to stay informed about fare changes. Here’s how to set them up:
- Search for Your Route: Enter your departure and destination cities.
- Turn on Price Tracking: Toggle the switch to track prices for your chosen route.
- Receive Notifications: Google Flights will send you email notifications whenever there’s a significant price drop.
3. Be Flexible with Travel Dates
Flexibility can lead to significant savings. Here’s why:
- Mid-Week Flights: Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are often cheaper than weekend flights.
- Calendar View: Use the calendar view to quickly spot the lowest fares on different dates. This can help you choose the most affordable travel dates.
4. Search Nearby Airports
Flying in and out of nearby airports can sometimes be cheaper. Here’s how to take advantage of this:
- Expand Your Search: When searching for flights, click on the “+” sign next to the airport code to include nearby airports in your search.
- Compare Prices: Look at the prices for these additional airports to see if they offer better deals.
5. Track Prices Over Time
Tracking prices over time helps you book when fares are at their lowest. Here’s what to do:
- Enable Price Tracking: Turn on the price tracking feature for your desired route.
- Monitor Trends: Watch the fare trends over several days or weeks.
- Book at the Right Time: When you notice a significant drop, it’s a good time to book.
Compare with Other Travel Portals and Airlines
While Google Flights is a powerful tool, it’s always good to compare prices. Here’s how:
- Check Other Travel Portals: Compare the prices you find on Google Flights with those on other travel sites like Expedia, Kayak, and Skyscanner.
- Book Directly with Airlines: Sometimes, airlines offer exclusive deals on their own websites that aren’t available elsewhere. Check the airline’s website before booking.
Conclusion
Google Flights is a must-have tool for anyone looking to save money on airfare. Its comprehensive search capabilities, user-friendly interface, and advanced features make it easy to find the best deals. By using the “Explore” feature, setting up price alerts, being flexible with travel dates, searching nearby airports, and tracking prices over time, you can ensure you’re getting the best possible price on your flights. Remember to compare your findings with other travel portals and the airlines’ own websites to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Happy travels!