Planning last-minute trips can be stressful, but with the right approach, you can still find affordable flights even at the eleventh hour. Here are proven strategies to help you secure last-minute flight deals without overspending.

1. Use Last-Minute Flight Apps

Apps designed for last-minute deals, such as Hopper, Last Minute Travel, and Skyscanner, specialize in finding unsold seats at reduced rates. These platforms regularly update with new deals, making it easy to spot savings as departure dates approach.

• How to use it: Download one or two last-minute flight apps and turn on notifications to receive real-time deal alerts.

2. Check Fare Aggregators for Flash Sales

Fare aggregators like Google Flights, Momondo, and Kayak are great for quickly comparing flight prices across multiple airlines. Airlines sometimes offer flash sales or limited-time discounts on last-minute seats, which are often displayed on these platforms.

• Pro tip: Use flexible dates and nearby airport options to see if small adjustments can lead to big savings.

3. Consider Booking Through Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Priceline, and Travelocity often offer discounted rates on last-minute flights, especially on less popular routes. These OTAs occasionally bundle flights with hotels or car rentals for extra savings.

• How it helps: Bundling your flight with other travel needs can lead to discounts that make last-minute travel more affordable.

4. Be Open to Alternate Airports and Routes

Last-minute travel may require flexibility with your arrival or departure airports. Flying into nearby airports or taking a connecting flight can often lead to more affordable fares than non-stop routes.

• Example: Instead of booking a last-minute direct flight to Los Angeles International (LAX), consider nearby airports like Burbank (BUR) or Long Beach (LGB) for cheaper options.

5. Sign Up for Airline and Deal Newsletters

Many airlines and travel deal websites send out last-minute offers through newsletters. Websites like Scott’s Cheap Flights and Secret Flying often share last-minute deals that could save you a lot on airfare.

• How to sign up: Subscribe to a few newsletters for immediate alerts on last-minute price drops and exclusive deals.

6. Use Rewards Points and Miles for Immediate Discounts

Travel points or frequent flyer miles can be particularly helpful for last-minute bookings, as they can offset a portion of your flight cost. Check with your airline’s rewards program or credit card provider to see if you have enough points to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

• Extra tip: Some programs, like Southwest’s Rapid Rewards, have flexible points redemption, which is ideal for last-minute redemptions.

7. Opt for “Flexible Dates” When Searching

Using the flexible dates option in search engines allows you to view different prices for flights within a range of dates. This approach is especially useful for last-minute trips, as shifting your travel date by even one day could lead to a lower fare.

• How to do it: On Google Flights or Skyscanner, select “flexible dates” and view options over a few days to find the best last-minute price.

8. Look for Hidden-City Tickets for Cheap One-Way Options

Hidden-city ticketing (booking a flight with a layover in your destination city and skipping the final leg) can sometimes offer savings for one-way flights. Websites like Skiplagged make it easy to find these deals, but remember to only use this option if you’re traveling light (carry-on only).

• Important: Be cautious with this method, as it may violate airline policies. Only use it occasionally and never check bags, as they will go to the final destination.

9. Consider Red-Eye or Off-Hour Flights

Late-night and early-morning flights, known as red-eye flights, are typically cheaper than those departing during peak hours. While they may not be ideal for everyone, red-eyes can be a great choice if you’re looking to save on a last-minute booking.

• Why it works: Less demand for red-eye flights allows airlines to lower prices to fill seats.

10. Take Advantage of Airline Standby Lists

If you’re feeling adventurous, flying standby can lead to last-minute savings. Airlines sometimes allow travelers to join a standby list, meaning you can take any available seat on a flight departing soon for a lower fare.

• How to access standby: Check with the airline to see if they offer standby options and what the process entails. Note that standby is often only available for certain fare types or loyalty program members.

Conclusion: Smart Last-Minute Travel with Big Savings

Booking last-minute flights doesn’t have to mean paying a premium. With these tips, you can find affordable options and still enjoy spontaneous travel without breaking the bank. Staying flexible, using points, and signing up for alerts can make last-minute adventures more affordable and enjoyable.