Booking cheap flights to Canada requires some strategic planning, flexibility, and a bit of know-how. Here’s a detailed guide to help you find the best deals on flights to the Great White North:
Table of Contents
1. Plan Ahead
Advance Booking: The earlier you book your flight, the more likely you will find cheaper fares. Ideally, book your flight at least 2-3 months in advance.
2. Be Flexible with Dates and Times
Midweek Travel: Flights are often cheaper midweek, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Avoid flying on weekends if possible. Off-Peak Seasons: Travel during off-peak seasons (fall and spring) to get the best deals. Summer and winter holidays tend to have higher prices.
3. Use Flight Comparison Websites
Popular Sites: Use websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, Momondo, and Google Flights to compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms. Set Alerts: Many of these websites allow you to set up price alerts for specific routes. This way, you’ll be notified when prices drop.
4. Consider Nearby Airports
Alternative Airports: Check flights to and from alternative airports near your destination. For example, flying into Toronto Pearson (YYZ) might be more expensive than Hamilton (YHM) or Buffalo (BUF) just across the border in the U.S.
5. Use Budget Airlines
Low-Cost Carriers: Airlines such as Air Canada Rouge, WestJet, and Flair Airlines often offer lower fares compared to major carriers. Hidden Fees: Be aware of extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and in-flight services which are common with budget airlines.
6. Book One-Way Tickets
Split Tickets: Sometimes, booking two one-way tickets (one to your destination and one back) can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket, especially if you mix and match airlines.
7. Leverage Airline Miles and Points
Frequent Flyer Programs: Join frequent flyer programs and use accumulated miles or points to book flights. Credit Card Offers: Use credit cards that offer travel rewards or airline-specific cards to earn points that can be redeemed for flights.
8. Check for Deals and Discounts
Airline Sales: Keep an eye out for airline sales and flash deals. Follow airlines on social media and subscribe to their newsletters for exclusive offers. Student and Senior Discounts: Some airlines offer special discounts for students and seniors. Websites like StudentUniverse cater specifically to student travellers.
9. Book in Incognito Mode
Browser Cookies: Use incognito mode or clear your browser cookies to avoid fare increases based on your search history.
10. Consider Layovers
Indirect Flights: Sometimes, flights with one or more layovers can be significantly cheaper than direct flights. Just be sure to account for the added travel time.
11. Use Local Travel Agencies
Regional Deals: Sometimes, local travel agencies in your home country or Canada can offer special deals unavailable online.
12. Avoid Peak Booking Times
Late-Night Searches: Book your flights during off-peak hours, such as late at night or early in the morning, to find lower fares.
13. Utilize Price Comparison Apps
Mobile Apps: Download travel apps like Hopper, Skiplagged, and CheapOair which can help track prices and find hidden deals.
Practical Example
Imagine you want to fly from New York (JFK) to Toronto (YYZ). Here’s how you could find a cheap flight:
- Advance Booking: Start searching 2-3 months before your planned travel date.
- Comparison Websites: Use Google Flights to compare prices across different airlines.
- Flexible Dates: Check prices for midweek travel, say a Tuesday departure and a Wednesday return.
- Alternative Airports: Consider flying into Buffalo (BUF) and taking a bus or train to Toronto.
- Budget Airlines: Look for flights with WestJet or Flair Airlines.
- Price Alerts: Set up a price alert on Skyscanner.
- Incognito Mode: Search in incognito mode to avoid fare hikes.
By combining these strategies, you’re more likely to find a flight that fits your budget. Happy travels!