Traveling internationally doesn’t have to break the bank. With a few smart strategies, you can unlock fantastic flight deals that leave you with more budget to spend on the actual trip. Travel hacking is the art of using tips, tricks, and tools to find the best fares and maximize your travel savings. In this guide, we’ll reveal the secrets to scoring unbeatable deals on international flights, so you can travel the world without emptying your wallet.

1. Use Flight Search Engines Effectively

To begin your travel hacking journey, you need to get comfortable with flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo. These platforms allow you to compare hundreds of flights and filter them according to your preferences. The key here is flexibility—search for different dates, alternative airports, and even nearby destinations. Sometimes flying into a neighboring country and then taking a low-cost carrier can save you significant amounts.

• Pro tip: Use the “Explore” feature in Google Flights or the “Everywhere” search on Skyscanner to discover unexpected low-cost destinations.

2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

One of the golden rules of travel hacking is flexibility. Most airlines price their tickets based on demand, so flying midweek or during off-peak seasons can result in much cheaper fares. Consider adjusting your departure and return dates by a day or two to find the lowest prices. If you aren’t locked into specific dates, you’ll have more chances to snag great deals.

• Pro tip: Sign up for fare alerts from apps like Hopper, which will notify you when prices drop.

3. Leverage Airline Rewards Programs and Credit Cards

Airline reward programs and travel credit cards are essential tools for any travel hacker. By accumulating miles through frequent flyer programs or credit card points, you can often score free or deeply discounted flights. Look for cards that offer sign-up bonuses, which can sometimes provide enough miles for a round-trip ticket after meeting a minimum spend.

• Pro tip: Use a combination of cash and points to pay for flights when available, maximizing your savings while still getting closer to the next rewards milestone.

4. Book at the Right Time

Timing is everything when it comes to booking flights. According to research, the best time to book international flights is usually 2-3 months in advance. However, if you’re flying during a peak holiday season, it’s better to book as early as possible. Additionally, airlines often release discounted fares on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so these are the best days to check for price drops.

• Pro tip: Use price prediction tools like Kayak or Google Flights to estimate whether prices are likely to increase or decrease.

5. Take Advantage of Error Fares

Error fares are another jackpot for travel hackers. Sometimes airlines or booking websites make pricing mistakes, offering tickets at a fraction of the regular cost. These deals disappear quickly, so when you find one, it’s essential to book immediately. Websites like Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog specialize in alerting travelers to these flash sales.

• Pro tip: Always book error fares with caution. While most airlines honor them, there’s a slight chance your booking may be canceled.

Conclusion: Plan Smarter, Travel Cheaper

By mastering these travel hacking techniques, you can consistently find the best flight deals and save big on your international trips. Remember to stay flexible, use the right tools, and take advantage of reward programs to maximize your savings. With a little planning and patience, you’ll be jetting off to exciting destinations at a fraction of the usual cost.

Bonus Tips for Budget-Savvy Travelers:

• Set fare alerts: Don’t spend hours refreshing flight searches. Set alerts to monitor prices and get notified when fares drop.
• Pack light: Many airlines charge for checked bags. Traveling light with just a carry-on can save you from additional fees.
• Consider alternative airports: Sometimes flying into a smaller or nearby airport can significantly reduce costs.