5 Smart Ways to Save on Flights and Boost Your Travel Fun

Dreaming of reuniting with loved ones, unwinding on a well-earned vacation, or finally kicking off that passion project? Booking your flight is the first exciting step!  

The challenge? Balancing big travel dreams with a realistic budget. 

The good news? Getting a great deal on airfare is easier than you think—just follow these simple tips. 

 

1. Timing Makes a Difference

Is there a magic moment to book flights? Not exactly—but recognizing patterns can help you land a better deal. 

Instead of buying a ticket months in advance, aim for a sweet spot. For U.S. and Caribbean destinations, the best prices tend to appear one to three months before departure.¹

If you’re heading to Europe or Asia, plan ahead three to five months for optimal rates.²

Even the day you purchase matters. Expedia found that booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday could cut international flight costs by up to 24%.1 A simple switch that could make a big impact on your budget! 

 

2. Stay Flexible for Bigger Savings

The more adaptable you are, the better your chances of securing cheap flights. Adjusting your travel dates, departure times, or even destinations can make a significant difference.

Consider these strategies:

• Shift your travel days: Use the “flexible dates” tool on comparison sites to see which days offer the lowest fares, often earlier in the week. Expanding your search across multiple weeks or months can uncover hidden savings. 
• Avoid peak travel seasons: Ticket prices spike during school vacations and holidays. Flying off-season means lower costs, fewer tourists, and a more laid-back trip. 
• Explore alternate airports: Flying into or out of smaller airports nearby can be surprisingly cost-effective. While it might require a slight detour, it could lead to notable savings—plus, you might find an underrated gem along the way! 
• Consider flights with stopovers: Long layovers can work in your favour, with reduced fares and an extra mini-adventure en route. 
• Let your budget choose your getaway: Travel websites often let you browse options based on budget. Selecting the “anywhere” feature could lead to an unexpected but unforgettable destination!

 

3. Compare Prices Before Booking

Before you commit to a ticket, make sure you’ve checked prices across multiple platforms. Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak allow comparisons across different airlines while also letting you track fare changes and set price alerts.

Quick tip: Turn on private browsing and clear your cache before searching—this may help avoid sudden price hikes. Switching devices can also prevent inconsistent pricing. 

 

4. Watch for Flash Deals

Great airfare discounts don’t last long—sometimes only a few hours.

Stay in the loop by subscribing to airline emails and following travel deal websites like YYZ Deals, Google Flights, and Flytrippers for alerts on the latest flight bargains from Canada. 

When you spot an amazing deal, act fast! The lowest prices often disappear quickly, so a little spontaneity could pay off big time. 

 

5. Take Advantage of Rewards Programs

If your credit card is linked to a travel rewards program, you might already have discounts waiting to be used. Everyday purchases can add up to perks like cheaper flights, seat upgrades, or even free tickets. 

Programs such as Aeroplan and Air Miles allow you to collect points without needing a credit card. By shopping with participating retailers, you can gradually accumulate rewards, transforming your routine spending into travel savings. 

 

Bonus Tip: Save on Travel Insurance Too

Travel insurance may not be top of mind when cutting costs, but frequent travellers can benefit from annual coverage. 

With Ontario Blue Cross® Multi-Trip Annual insurance, you’re covered for unlimited trips within a year under one plan, eliminating the need to purchase separate policies each time you fly. 

Customize your coverage with insurance like Emergency Medical Care, Trip Cancellation, or  Baggage. Plus, enjoy 24/7 travel assistance and Flight Delay Service at no extra cost. A smart way to get the coverage you need, without breaking the bank! 

 

Final Thoughts

Yes, affordable travel is possible. 

With strategic planning, flexibility, and smart tools, your dream trip can fit within your budget without sacrificing quality. And as you explore the world, having the right travel insurance has got you covered every step of the way.