Top Tips for Getting Cheap Flights to Europe This Summer

Top Tips For Getting Cheap Flights to Europe This Summer

Planning a summer getaway to Europe doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of research and strategic planning, you can score some fantastic deals on flights. We'll provide you with insider tips, in this guide, for finding the cheapest flights to Europe. Get ready to pack your bags and take off with these money-saving tips.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

One of the easiest ways to find cheap flights to Europe is to be flexible with your travel dates. Airlines often have different pricing tiers for different days of the week and times of the year. Generally, traveling mid-week can save you a significant amount compared to weekends. Wednesday seems to be a great day of the week to seize lower priced flight options. By reserving flights for the least-popular travel day you can possibly save $75 or more. When looking for flights, take advantage of fare calendars to see which days are cheapest, for departing and returning.

Book in Advance

Booking your flight well in advance can often secure you a better price. Airlines usually release tickets around 11 months before departure, and the earlier you book, the more likely you are to find cheaper options. Buy during the “prime booking window,” this is generally from 4 months to 3 weeks before departure. If you have a fixed window of when you can travel to Europe, start watching fares at least 160 days before your flight, which is when the biggest savings are more likely to be found. Alas, summer is upon us and the tactic might still work if you book now to travel during the edges of the season which is the first week of June or after mid August. Also, consider September, it's still excellent weather and can be a bit cheaper. However, if you're willing to take a risk, sometimes last-minute flight deals can also be very budget-friendly.

Use Fare Alerts and Comparison Tools

Take advantage of fare alert services and comparison tools to keep an eye on fluctuating flight prices. Price alerts are your very best friend when looking for a deal on a flight. Websites like Kiwi.com use their special AI comparison system called Nomad to find you the best prices, while Skyscanner and Google Flights allow you to set up alerts for your preferred routes, notifying you when prices drop. This can help you decide the optimal time to purchase your tickets. When you get an alert with an excellent fare for your preferred route and destination you have to be prepared to seize the moment because the price won't stick around.

Consider Nearby Airports

Don't limit your search to major airports. Smaller or secondary airports in nearby cities can sometimes offer significantly cheaper flights. For example, flying into Brussels Charleroi instead of Brussels Airport can save you a considerable amount. Always factor in the cost and time of getting from these airports to your final destination to ensure it's worth the savings.

Travel Light

Many budget airlines offer extremely low base fares but charge hefty fees for checked luggage. Traveling with only a carry-on bag can help you avoid these additional costs. Make sure you're familiar with the airline's baggage policies to prevent unexpected charges at the airport.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding cheap flights to Europe this summer. A little flexibility and a bit of advanced planning can go a long way in making your European adventure both enjoyable and affordable.