Flexible date searches are one of the best ways to save on flights by showing you cheaper travel dates within a range of options. By adjusting your travel plans by just a few days, you can often find significantly lower fares. Here’s how to use flexible date searches effectively to find the best deals.

1. Choose Platforms with Flexible Date Tools

Flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak offer flexible date search options that allow you to view fares across a range of dates. These tools display prices for multiple days or even entire months, making it easy to identify the cheapest options.

• Best tools:
  • Google Flights: View fares across months using the “Calendar” view.
  • Skyscanner: Search by whole months or “cheapest month” for maximum flexibility.
  • Kayak: Use the “Flexible Dates” filter to view fare comparisons for a seven-day period.

2. Select “Flexible Dates” When Searching

When starting a search, select the “Flexible Dates” option rather than specific dates. This choice allows the search engine to show prices over a range of days, usually highlighting the lowest fares.

• Pro tip: Use the “Calendar” view or “Explore” option to quickly spot patterns in pricing, making it easier to pick the cheapest travel dates.

3. Adjust Search Filters to Maximize Savings

Use filters to customize your flexible date search further, such as by setting the maximum number of layovers, flight duration, or departure times. This ensures you only see options that fit your travel preferences while still finding deals.

• How it helps: Filters allow you to balance savings with convenience by showing flights that are both affordable and suited to your schedule.

4. Expand Your Travel Window by a Few Days

If you’re flexible with travel dates, expanding your window by even just one or two days can sometimes reveal significantly lower fares. Airlines often have lower prices on mid-week days, such as Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

• Example: Instead of flying on a Friday or Sunday, look at flights departing mid-week to take advantage of lower fares.

5. Use Month-Long Searches for International Trips

International flights tend to fluctuate widely in price. A month-long search allows you to see fares across an extended period, helping you find the best times to fly. Google Flights and Skyscanner are particularly helpful for this approach.

• Extra tip: For international routes, plan to book 4-6 months in advance to get the best rates, using flexible dates to adjust your itinerary accordingly.

6. Check Fares for “Nearby Dates” to Save More

Once you have a preferred date range, use the “Nearby Dates” feature on platforms like Hopper or Google Flights to view prices within a few days of your ideal travel dates. This lets you catch small fare drops without changing your itinerary drastically.

• How to use it: Select a three-day window around your preferred dates to see if shifting by a day or two could reduce the fare.

7. Track Multiple Date Ranges with Alerts

Setting up price alerts for different date ranges allows you to monitor fares over time. Tools like Kayak, Google Flights, and Hopper can send notifications whenever there’s a price drop for your selected dates, making it easy to book when prices are lowest.

• Best practice: Set multiple alerts for a month or two before and after your intended travel dates to cover a broad range.

8. Use “Explore” Features for Spontaneous Trips

If you’re completely flexible on travel dates, use the “Explore” or “Everywhere” features on apps like Google Flights or Skyscanner. These tools show you the cheapest destinations for any given month or season, which is ideal for travelers open to new places.

• Perfect for: Spontaneous travelers who are open to exploring new locations based on the best available fares.

9. Combine Flexible Dates with Nearby Airports

If your departure city has multiple airports, searching nearby airports can reveal additional savings. Some smaller airports may offer cheaper flights, especially on budget airlines, and are often included in flexible date searches.

• Example: For New York City, check fares from JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark to find the most affordable option.

10. Avoid Booking on High-Demand Dates

Flexible date searches allow you to see price spikes around holidays or peak travel seasons. Avoiding these high-demand dates can help you secure cheaper fares, especially if you’re willing to travel slightly before or after these times.

• Key dates to avoid: Major holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and spring break often have higher fares, so try shifting travel dates by a few days to see lower prices.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Flexible Date Searches

Flexible date searches offer a straightforward way to save on airfare by identifying the best travel dates within a range of options. By expanding your travel window, using filters, and setting alerts, you’ll be well-equipped to find affordable flights that fit your schedule.