How to Get Cheap Flights Last Minute: Top Tips to Save

Finding cheap, last-minute flights might seem like an oxymoron in the modern travel world, but it’s not entirely impossible. As an avid traveler, I’ve faced the disappointment of wanting to book a quick impromptu getaway only to be met with sky-high airfare. The idea of traveling at the last minute can feel discouraging when prices are exorbitant and flying has only become more expensive over time.

A report from Hopper shows that by January 2025, airfare was 12% higher than the previous year, with prices expected to remain above 2023 and 2024 levels through at least mid-year. So, what’s a savvy traveler to do when a spur-of-the-moment trip comes to mind? While last-minute flights often require forking over higher fares, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck with the usual high costs. How to Get Cheap Flights Last Minute: Top Tips to Save is the key to scoring a fabulous deal and making that sudden adventure happen without the financial shock.

The best way to predict the future is to create it.” — Abraham Lincoln

Leverage Technology to Find Deals

When it comes to finding cheap flights last minute, using tech tools is a game-changer. Airlines use dynamic pricing models, similar to how hotels and other parts of the travel industry adjust prices based on market conditions.

This means that seats on the same flight can be sold for different prices. Thankfully, tech tools are here to help you track these fluctuations. Platforms like Hopper use data-driven technology to help travelers like you save money. For example, Hopper’s Price Prediction tool can predict when airfare will rise or fall, giving you the advantage to book at the best time. This tool also lets you choose whether to “book now” or watch a specific trip.

Another powerful tool is Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), which sends flight deals directly to your inbox. Since its app launch, Going has helped users save over $6.3 million on flights, with some free-tier members saving about $350 per round-trip ticket. If you want even bigger savings, consider the Premium or Elite membership options for exclusive screaming deals.

Other booking platforms like Expedia and Kayak also notify you by email when prices drop on preferred routes, ensuring you never miss out on a deal. Plus, Google Flights has upgraded its price-predicting power and can notify you when prices drop on routes you’re watching, making it easier to find the lowest possible price for your last-minute getaway.

Platform	Benefits	How it Helps
Hopper	Predicts price changes and tells you the best time to book	Saves you money by booking at the right time
Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)	Sends personalized flight deal alerts	Helps you find discounted last-minute flights
Google Flights	Notifies you when prices decrease for your preferred routes.	Makes it easy to monitor and compare fares

The best time to book a flight is not when it’s most convenient, but when it’s cheapest.” — Travel Expert

Avoid High-Travel Seasons for Better Rates

To save money on flights, try to avoid flying during peak travel periods. These are the times when many people are traveling, which means flights and accommodation prices go up. For example, flying to Europe during the summer months of June, July, and August is usually expensive, whereas fall or winter trips tend to be more affordable, unless it’s around Christmas, which is another peak travel period.

The same goes for the Caribbean—the cold weather months bring more visitors, especially during Spring Break from December to April. A good tip is to use tech tools like Skyscanner, which has a Whole Month search feature to help you find affordable dates to fly. Being flexible with your travel dates and flying during off-peak seasons can bring significant savings on both flights and accommodation, and help you avoid crowds of tourists.

Peak Travel Period	Cheapest Time to Travel
Summer (June – August)	Fall or Winter (October – December)
Spring Break (March-April)	Mid-January to February
Christmas and New Year	Early January

Flexibility is key when it comes to saving money on flights. Often, traveling a day or two earlier or later can make a significant difference in price.— Huw Owen, Travel Expert

Opt for Flexible Destinations to Save on Fares

If you’re looking to save money on flights, being flexible with your destination can help you score cheaper fares. Travel experts often recommend flying a day earlier or later, or departing from a nearby airport, to secure lower fares. In fact, using online search sites like Skyscanner can make it easier to browse for the best options.

For example, if Paris flights are pricey, try searching for nearby routes to Brussels or other secondary cities. As Huw Owen, cofounder of TravelLocal, points out, flying into secondary cities like Naples or Perugia can be a great way to save money while still visiting popular regions in Europe. You don’t need to stick to the ultimate destination; instead, opt for alternative airports to make your trip more affordable, especially if you’re planning a two-weeklong itinerary. Flexibility with your destination is key to getting the best deals!

Primary Destination	Alternative Nearby Destination
Paris	Brussels, Amsterdam
Rome	Naples, Perugia
New York City	La Guardia, Newark

Sometimes the best adventures come from unexpected destinations.” — Travel Expert

Take Advantage of Eliminated Change Fees

Thanks to the pandemic, many airlines have now scrapped those annoying change fees, making it easier for travelers to take advantage of great last-minute deals. If you book a flight for $300 and then see the price drop to $200 a few days later, you don’t have to worry about taking a big hit.As Scott Keyes, founder of Going, explains, this is particularly helpful for last-minute bookings.

You can simply rebook the flight at the new price and get the $100 difference back in flight credit. If you come across a deal that’s too good to miss, seize it while you can, knowing you’re protected if the fare drops after your booking.

Consider Booking Flights Individually for Better Savings

If you’re traveling with a family of four, booking flights all at once might seem convenient, but it could end up costing you more. Airlines often use automated pricing systems that look for seats at the same price, so a quote of $400 each for everyone might appear. However, if you search for single seats, you might find cheaper options, like a lower fare class at $320, which the system overlooks when searching for multiple seats together.

You can still add all the reservations to your group later by contacting customer service or a travel agent. Similarly, don’t forget to check one-way flights and returns, as combining flights on different carriers can lead to savings, especially on domestic trips.

Keep in mind that using points or miles for booking can be tricky when it comes to round-trip options because airline systems aren’t great at finding the best deals for those. If you need to book economy or economy-plus seats, booking each leg separately might save you from paying a higher category price.

Stick to the 21-Day Rule for Optimal Booking

One of the best strategies for getting cheap flights last minute is following the 21-Day Rule, which is essential for monitoring flight prices. According to Keyes from Going, the ideal time to book a flight is at least 21 days before your trip.

If the price hasn’t dropped by then, it’s a good idea to book your flight as airlines tend to increase fares once it’s within three weeks of the travel date. For example, Keyes was tracking a flight from Portland to Las Vegas, which remained stable at $113 until just twenty days before departure, when it increased by $99.

It went up again by another $89 after the 14-day mark, proving how volatile airfare prices can be. This unpredictability makes the 21-Day Rule a valuable tool for knowing when to act.

To make sure you never miss a deal, Keyes also recommends using the “My Trips” feature in the Going app, which helps travelers keep an eye on real-time prices and receive booking guidance. If you’re planning a trip to Europe or anywhere else, remember that the best time to book flights from the US is about 72 days before your departure.

As seen with Google Flights, booking too late may result in higher prices, especially as the departure date nears and airfare starts to increase about 10 weeks before you fly. Staying flexible and using these tips will help you find the best deals and avoid paying inflated prices.

Look for Last-Minute Flight Deals Using Rewards

When looking for last-minute flights, consider using your frequent flier miles to book a seat. Airlines often release unsold seats as cheaper-than-normal mileage tickets, so it’s worth checking for redemption opportunities. Don’t just rely on online searches or a rewards app; sometimes it’s helpful to contact the customer service team directly to ask about available options.

Additionally, make sure you’re using the right credit card for your travel habits and airline loyalty to earn points. Many major airlines offer co-branded cards with banks like Chase, CitiBank, or Bank of America, which come with significant sign-up bonuses that can be used toward flights and hotels, helping you save on travel expenses.

Explore Fifth Freedom Flights for Better Savings

If you’re looking to save money on last-minute flights, consider fifth freedom flights. These flights are unique because they offer service between two countries that aren’t the airline’s home base, which can benefit budget-minded travelers.

These routes are often operated by larger aircraft on popular international routes, meaning there’s more competition and usually lower prices. Moreover, frequent-flier availability on these flights is often overlooked, providing additional savings. These flights can also offer a superior onboard experience, making them a great choice for travelers looking to get more value for their money.

Fifth Freedom Flight Example	Benefits
New York – London (via Iceland)	Cheaper fares and more competitive options
Singapore – Hong Kong	More frequent, lower-priced flights

Fifth freedom flights are often overlooked by many, but they can offer incredible value for money, especially when flying internationally.” — Travel Insider

Consider “Hidden-City” Booking (With Caution)

If you’re having trouble sticking to a flight budget, one option to explore is hidden-city booking, where you book a flight with a layover in a connecting city and simply. deplane at the layover city. For example, instead of flying directly from Boston to Phoenix, you could book a flight from Boston to Los Angeles via Phoenix and stop in Phoenix without continuing to Los Angeles.

This workaround can be much cheaper than booking a direct flight. However, be aware that this method is strictly prohibited in many airlines’ contracts of carriage. For instance, in 2019, United Airlines began reporting passengers who used hidden-city tickets to corporate security, and in 2024, American Airlines was awarded $9.4 million in a lawsuit against Skiplagged Inc.

for promoting the tactic. While Skiplagged is well-known for offering this option, you should be cautious, as it can lead to trouble if you’re caught. This strategy is best for more experienced travelers since casual ones may not fully understand the potential ramifications of using this method. Although it may provide cheaper fares, you must be prepared for the risks of getting caught by the carrier. Snyder notes that it’s not always worth it, especially if you don’t fully understand the potential issues that might arise.

Strategies for Securing a Last-Minute Upgrade

When you’re booking a last-minute flight, one way to score a complimentary upgrade is to bid for it, especially when you’re flying in economy. Some airlines offer passengers the chance to place a bid for a seat in a premium cabin, often at a discounted price.

Brett Snyder from Cranky Concierge suggests that travelers may also try to pay a bit more for a lower class seat and hope for an upgrade offer at check-in. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is never a guaranteed method, and travelers must be comfortable with staying in their original class if no upgrades are available.

A more human approach could also work. Kimberley Lovato, a travel writer, once asked a check-in agent at SFO for a business class upgrade on her transatlantic flight from San Francisco to Amsterdam. Even though the upgrade typically costs $10,000, she countered with $400 and surprisingly got it.

This just shows that sometimes asking, even if it seems crazy, could lead to unexpected results. It’s all about timing, being polite, and taking your chances. The moral of the story? Travelers who take the chance and ask for things might just get lucky with a higher cabin and a much more enjoyable flight.

Current Travel Insights and Expert Advice

• Experts agree that flying today is safer than many people think, despite current concerns.

• Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest safety protocols and airline safety measures, which are continuously improving.

• Weather conditions and turbulence still pose risks, but experts’ advice highlights safety standards that minimize these dangers.

• It’s important to follow air travel safety guidelines provided by airlines, especially post-pandemic, to ensure safe flying.

• Airlines’ policies and health concerns are evolving, so it’s wise to check for updates before your flight for the most secure travel options.

Explore Fares at Nearby Airports for Better Deals

When you’re booking a last-minute flight, one trick I’ve often relied on is not limiting my search to just the airports closest to my current location or intended destination. Instead, I widen my options to include nearby alternatives.

For instance, when I was flying into New York City, I initially focused on JFK, thinking it was the only real option, but when I checked prices for La Guardia and Newark, I found cheaper fares. Similarly, in London, where more than five airports serve the area, the final ticket cost varied significantly depending on where I landed. I usually use platforms like Google Flights or Expedia, which offer filters to view all airports within a reasonable radius, which has often changed the results dramatically in my favor.

Before I take off, I also consider the cost and distance of transportation from the airport. For business trips to my office or when heading straight to a hotel, a farther airport might mean a longer commute. However, thanks to ubiquitous,

inexpensive public transit like buses, subways, and trains, the added travel can be manageable, especially in popular tourist cities. Sometimes, I even save significant cash despite the downsides of arriving somewhere less convenient—a compromise I’m willing to make to keep the overall travel budget low.

This approach to searching and comparing has often led me to smarter choices and better deals when flying on short notice.

Consider One-Way Flights for More Affordable Options

A helpful trick I use when booking last-minute flights is to search for one-way tickets instead of a round-trip. Many times, airlines will offer different prices for one-way tickets, which can be cheaper, especially for domestic travel. When I search for multiple flights, I often find a good deal by combining flights on different airlines.

For example, I once found a cheaper option by booking a one-way flight from Austin to Cincinnati with one airline, and a return flight with a different airline. By doing this, I was able to save some cash. Platforms like Google Flights and Skyscanner can help you choose the cheapest option as they show separate tickets for your search results.

While the downside of this approach can be paying extra for luggage if policies differ between airlines (like when I flew with Southwest, which allowed checked bags but had to pay for carry-on on my return flight with Spirit), it’s still often worth the savings.

While this approach may seem complicated or risky at first, especially if connecting flights are involved, you could find direct flights that save both time and money. However, be sure to budget extra time between flights, because if your first flight is delayed, you might miss your second one. But if everything goes smoothly, this approach has the potential to save you significant amounts on your airfare.

Quick Tips for Rebooking a Cancelled Flight

When your flight gets canceled, the first thing you should do is check if the airlines offer you a rebook option on the next available flight at no additional charge, as per the U.S. Department of Transportation. However, if there are no available flights on the same airline, or if the future flight times aren’t ideal, you can apply the tactics we’ve discussed earlier to improve your odds of getting to your destination without much disruption to your travel plans.

If you want extra peace of mind, consider purchasing insurance or booking with a card that offers benefits like travel insurance. These options can help mitigate the financial risks involved with last-minute flight changes. For even more protection, look into the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade, which provides broader coverage for refunds on your upfront expenses, including airfare and hotels.

 Look for Airline Flash Sales and Special Offers

Many airlines run flash sales or limited-time promotions that can offer steep discounts on last-minute flights. These sales often pop up without much warning, and the window for booking is typically short. To catch these deals, it’s important to keep an eye on airline newsletters or social media pages, where these sales are often announced.

You can also sign up for alerts from deal websites like The Flight Deal or Airfarewatchdog, which specialize in finding and broadcasting flash sales. Booking during these promotions can be one of the most effective ways to snag cheap flights, even if your travel dates are just around the corner.

Watch for Airline Flash Sales and Limited-Time Deals

Sometimes taking a slightly longer route can save you a significant amount of money when booking last-minute flights. For instance, rather than booking a direct flight, consider connecting flights or a different departure city.

You might find cheaper options by flying into a nearby hub and then taking a local flight or train to your final destination. Apps like Google Flights and Kayak allow you to explore different routes and alternate airports, giving you more flexibility and the potential for lower fares. While this method may add a bit more travel time, it could result in substantial savings.

Maximize Savings with Travel Rewards Credit Cards

If you have a travel rewards credit card, you can often redeem points or miles for last-minute flight bookings. Many major banks offer co-branded travel cards that provide generous sign-up bonuses and points per dollar spent on travel.

These points can be used to offset the cost of a flight or even cover the full fare. Plus, some cards come with travel insurance, trip delay protection, and other perks that can make last-minute bookings more affordable and less stressful. Always check your rewards program to see how you can leverage your points for a last-minute trip.

Hunt for Discounted Business-Class Seats

While last-minute flights often come with inflated prices, business-class tickets can sometimes be discounted as airlines try to fill premium cabins at the last minute. This is a lesser-known hack that savvy travelers use to score cheaper business-class upgrades or even affordable last-minute business-class tickets.

Websites like ExpertFlyer or Point.Me allow users to monitor business-class award availability for last-minute deals. Sometimes, you may even find promotions that offer last-minute upgrades for a fraction of the original price, giving you an elevated flying experience without the hefty price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find cheap last-minute flights?

Use tech tools like Hopper, Google Flights, and Going to track price fluctuations and get alerts. Be flexible with dates and destinations to increase savings.

What are the best apps for finding last-minute flight deals?

Hopper, Going, and Google Flights are excellent apps for last-minute deals. They predict price trends and send alerts when fares drop, ensuring you never miss a deal.

What’s the best time to book a last-minute flight?

Aim to book flights at least 21 days in advance to avoid price hikes. Booking last-minute can still work if you monitor prices and remain flexible.

How can I save money by being flexible with destinations?

Flexibility with destinations, such as flying to nearby cities, can lead to significant savings. Use Skyscanner to explore alternative routes and cheaper options in secondary cities.

What is the 21-day rule for booking flights?

The 21-day rule suggests booking flights at least 21 days in advance. Prices tend to rise closer to departure, so early booking maximizes savings for last-minute trips.

Can I use frequent flyer miles for last-minute flights?

Yes, airlines often offer unsold seats at discounted mileage prices. Check with your airline or use reward apps to redeem miles for cheaper last-minute tickets.

What are fifth freedom flights and how do they help with savings?

Fifth freedom flights are international routes between two non-home countries, often at lower prices due to competition. These flights can offer cheaper fares and better onboard experiences.

What is hidden-city booking and should I try it?

Hidden-city booking involves booking a flight with a layover and deplaning at the stop. It’s risky and can violate airline policies, so proceed with caution.

How can I get an upgrade on a last-minute flight?

To get an upgrade, try bidding for an upgrade, ask at check-in, or look for discounted business class seats. Politeness and timing can sometimes work in your favor.

Is it worth checking alternate airports for cheaper last-minute flights?

Yes! Checking nearby airports can often result in cheaper fares. Use tools like Google Flights to compare prices across multiple airports within a reasonable distance from your destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding cheap last-minute flights is entirely possible with the right approach and resources. By leveraging tech tools like Hopper, Going, and Google Flights, travelers can monitor price fluctuations and snag the best deals.

Flexibility with travel dates, destinations, and even airports can significantly reduce costs, while avoiding peak travel periods offers even more savings. Additionally, utilizing strategies like booking one-way flights, taking advantage of waived change fees, or using frequent flyer miles can help make last-minute trips more affordable. With a bit of patience, planning, and creativity, it’s entirely feasible to enjoy spontaneous travel without breaking the bank.