The first step to using flight alerts is to sign up with a flight comparison website or app. Some of the most popular ones include Skyscanner, Google Flights, Kayak, and Hopper. These sites allow you to set alerts for your specific route, whether you’re flying to a big city or a hidden gem.
All you need to do is input your travel dates, and departure and destination airports, and the website will do the hard work for you. You'll be notified by email or through the app when there's a price drop.
If you're flexible with your travel dates, you have a better chance of finding cheap flights. Flight prices can vary greatly depending on the day of the week, time of year, or even time of day. Most flight alert tools allow you to search for dates within a certain range.
For example, if you're planning to travel to Europe, you could set the alert for "anytime in the next 3 weeks" rather than specific dates. This gives you more options and increases your chances of finding a bargain.
Once you’ve signed up and set your flight alerts, start paying attention to the price trends. Many flight comparison tools give you a breakdown of how prices are expected to change. They may suggest when to book the best deals based on past trends.
Some tools like Google Flights even give you a “price graph” that shows whether the current price is high, low, or about average. If you notice a dip, it might be a good time to snap up those tickets before the price climbs back up.
Flight alerts aren’t just for one destination. If you’re unsure about where you want to go, you can use alerts for multiple routes. This can give you a better idea of where the deals are and help you decide on the best destination for your budget.
For example, you could set alerts for flights from your home airport to several cities in Europe or Asia. This gives you more flexibility and lets you make the most of any unexpected price drops.
While flight alerts are incredibly useful, combining them with other booking tools can help you save even more. For instance, once you get a flight alert, check out deal websites like SecretFlying or Airfarewatchdog. These sites often post flash sales and offers that aren’t listed on the major comparison sites.
Also, use a cashback or rewards site when booking your tickets. If you’re lucky, you may be able to get cashback or earn points while securing a great deal.
One of the most important things to remember when using flight alerts is that deals often don’t last long. If you receive an alert that the price has dropped, don’t wait too long to book. Airfares can change within minutes, especially on popular routes.
Some flight comparison sites offer a feature that lets you "lock in" a fare for a short time, giving you time to finalise your decision. If this option is available, consider using it to secure your deal before the price goes up again.
Not all airlines use the same pricing system. By setting up flight alerts for multiple airlines, you can compare prices and see which one offers the best deal. For example, you might find that flying with a budget airline works out cheaper than a traditional carrier but don’t forget to factor in extra fees like baggage charges.
Setting alerts for different airlines can help you find the best option for your trip, whether it’s a low-cost carrier or a full-service airline.
Using flight alerts is one of the easiest ways to find cheap tickets for your next trip. By setting up alerts, being flexible with your dates, and booking quickly when you spot a deal, you can save yourself time and money. So, get started today – sign up for flight alerts and start tracking those prices. Your next adventure could be just a click away!