If you’re looking to fly without burning through your savings, you’re not alone. Between inflation, fluctuating fuel prices, and dynamic airline pricing, scoring cheap flights in 2025 can feel like solving a complex puzzle. The good news is you don’t need insider connections to travel smart; you only need a few well-tested strategies and the right tools.
This guide breaks down expert travel advice for 2025 to help you save big on airfare while enjoying stress-free travel.
1. Book in Advance
It’s time to let go of the old myth that booking flights on a specific day—like Tuesday—guarantees the lowest fare. While that advice may have worked in the past when airlines updated their fares weekly, airfare is now governed by real-time dynamic pricing.
Airlines now adjust ticket prices multiple times a day using algorithms that factor in demand, competition, route interest, and even your browsing behavior. This means there’s no universally “cheapest day” to book anymore.
- Book 3 to 6 weeks in advance for domestic routes
- Book 2 to 4 months ahead for international travel
- Set price alerts on tools like OneAir, Skyscanner, or Google Flights to monitor deals over time
These modern flight booking tips help you stay ahead of price surges and give you a better chance at scoring a great seat at a low fare—regardless of the day you book.
Photo by Ziga Plahutar from Getty Images Signature
2. Travel Off-Peak for Big Savings
One of the simplest budget-friendly travel tips is to avoid traveling during peak seasons, as airfare prices tend to spike during major holidays such as Diwali, Holi, and the school breaks in May and June in India.
Save money on flights by planning your trips during the following periods:
- India: February to April, August to October
- Europe & SE Asia: March, September, early November
Traveling during these off-peak times results in quieter destinations and typically offers lower accommodation rates that stretch your rupee further.
3. Use AI-Powered Fare Alerts
Tired of checking prices every day? Let AI do it for you. Here’s how it helps you find cheap flights in 2025.
- Tracks unpublished fares and exclusive promo rates
- Allows flexible “anywhere” or budget-based searches
- Sends instant alerts before prices spike again
Instead of manually checking for prices daily, set up alerts that notify you when fares drop, especially for routes you frequently monitor or dream destinations you’re open to.
Screenshot from OneAir.AI
4. Consider Budget Airlines (But Read the Fine Print)
Low-cost airlines (LCC) such as AirAsia, Scoot, Akasa Air, and IndiGo often offer lower base fares, making them great for affordable international travel. However, keep in mind that these fares typically exclude extras like baggage, seat selection, and meals.
To fly on a budget without surprises:
- Always check what’s included in the base fare
- Compare the final price after add-ons
- Travel light or prepay for luggage to save more
Always compare the total cost of your booking, not just the initial fare. For short-haul routes, flying LCCs can still be a smart way to save. For long-haul, calculate carefully: sometimes full-service airlines offer better value once you factor in everything.
5. Use Credit Card Rewards and Loyalty Programs
The right credit card can help you save money on flights whenever you shop or dine. Maximize every rupee spent by using travel credit cards that earn you miles, cashback, or travel vouchers.
Popular options among Indian travelers include:
- Axis Atlas: Travel rewards + airport lounge access
- HDFC Diners Club Black: High point-earning potential
- SBI Card ELITE: Hotel and flight perks
Enroll in airline loyalty programs, such as Air India’s Flying Returns, Emirates Skywards, and Singapore’s KrisFlyer. Over time, even infrequent flyers can accumulate enough miles for discounts, upgrades, or free flights.
Photo by Ankur Khandelwal on Unsplash
6. Be Flexible with Airports and Itineraries
Flexibility is one of the most powerful tools for saving on airfare. Flying out of major hubs like Delhi or Mumbai isn’t always the cheapest option. Try searching from alternative departure airports within India, which often offer cheaper international fares.
For lower prices, consider:
- Kochi, Chennai, Kolkata for outbound international routes
- Open-jaw tickets (e.g., Delhi to Paris, return from Rome)
- Multi-city routes for better pricing and itinerary flexibility
Alternative routing options give you more value without sacrificing your experience.
7. Watch for Flash Sales and Mistake Fares
Airlines often run flash sales for a limited time, sometimes just 24 to 48 hours. These are especially common during off-peak travel months or to promote new routes.
To stay in the loop:
- Follow airlines on their social media pages
- Join Telegram deal groups and sign up for newsletters
- Use deal trackers like OneAir or Secret Flying
Additionally, look out for mistake fares. These happen due to currency errors, system glitches, or human mistakes.
When you see a great fare, don’t wait. Book immediately, and read the fare rules before making changes or cancellations.
Photo by paulprescott72 from Getty Images
8. Use Stopovers to Your Advantage
Booking a stopover can lower your total airfare and give you a chance to see another city at no extra cost.
Airlines that offer great stopover programs:
- Qatar Airways (Doha): Free hotel + city tour
- Turkish Airlines (Istanbul): Layover tours + hotel discounts
- Singapore Airlines: Changi experience + hotel packages
For instance, a flight from Delhi to London with a 20-hour stopover in Doha or Istanbul may be significantly cheaper than a direct flight, and you get to explore an extra destination.
9. Don’t Skip Travel Insurance
While it might seem like an optional expense, travel insurance can save you money in case of cancellations, delays, or emergencies. Policies from Indian providers start as low as ₹300.
Top insurance providers in India:
- Tata AIG
- ICICI Lombard
- Digit
- Refund Protect add-ons from booking platforms for cancellation coverage.
Some booking platforms also offer optional protection, such as Refund Protect, which allows you to cancel for covered reasons and receive a full refund within 72 hours.
Photo by Iam Anupong from Getty Images
10. Mistakes to Avoid
Even the savviest travelers can fall into common traps that quietly drive up their airfare or derail their trip. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing where to find deals. Here are a few critical missteps to watch for when booking cheap flights in 2025:
- Booking without checking baggage or visa rules
Don’t assume every fare includes a checked bag or that your layover country allows transit without a visa. - Ignoring taxes and add-ons in the total cost
A ₹5,000 base fare may become ₹10,000 after baggage fees, seat selection, and taxes. - Relying on just one booking platform
Always cross-check prices on multiple platforms, including AI-powered apps, airline websites, and flight aggregators - Waiting too long for prices to drop
Holding out for a better deal can backfire. If the price is right and aligns with your budget, book it especially if it’s a mistake fare or part of a flash sale.
Takeaway
Scoring cheap flights in 2025 isn’t about chasing gimmicks or relying on outdated tricks—it’s about understanding how the system works and using smart, adaptable strategies. From fare alerts to budget airlines and AI-powered tools, today’s travelers have more control than ever over what they spend on airfare.
Want personalized alerts and member-only deals? Sign up for OneAir to save up to 60% on global airfare and hotel stays.
*Banner photo by anyaberkut from Getty Images
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to book cheap flights from India?
Book 3 to 6 weeks in advance for domestic and 2 to 4 months ahead for international travel. Avoid school holidays and festivals.
Can you get cheap flights at the airport?
Very rarely. Online deals are more reliable and widely available.
How do I get cheap flights at the last minute?
Stay flexible. Use alerts from travel apps and consider red-eye or mid-week flights.
Where can I buy cheap flights?
You can find cheap flights on search engines and deal platforms, including Google Flights, Skyscanner, and OneAir, which redirect you to airline websites.
Can flight prices change daily?
Yes. Airlines use dynamic pricing that updates multiple times per day.
How do I find cheap flights during holidays or peak season?
Book well in advance, fly on weekdays, and avoid the first and last days of school breaks.
Can I get cheap flights last-minute?
Yes, but it’s rare. You’ll need to be flexible with dates, times, and destinations.
What day can I find cheap flights?
Since airlines now use dynamic pricing, there’s no guaranteed cheap day. Instead, set fare alerts and fly mid-week, when fares are often lower.
Which airline has cheap flights?
IndiGo, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet often offer cheap domestic flights. For international flights, AirAsia, Scoot, Air Arabia, and FlyDubai offer some of the lowest fares from India.
How can students find cheap flights?
Use student discounts on Emirates, Qatar, Lufthansa, or StudentUniverse, and carry a valid ID.
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