Score Big Savings: Top Tips for Finding Cheap Flights from Chicago
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but the costs associated with air travel can sometimes put a damper on your plans. Luckily, if you’re flying out of Chicago, there are numerous strategies to score big savings on your airfare. Whether you’re jetting off for business or leisure, these top tips for finding cheap flights from Chicago will help you keep more money in your pocket.
1. Be Flexible with Dates
One of the key strategies to nab a great deal is to be flexible with your travel dates. Flying mid-week, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often yields lower prices as opposed to weekends. Use fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, which allow you to view fare calendars and identify the cheapest days to fly.
2. Leverage Multiple Airports
Chicago is uniquely positioned with two major airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Both offer a range of domestic and international flights. Don’t limit your search to just one; explore fares from both airports. Certain airlines may offer cheaper flights from one over the other.
3. Take Advantage of Low-Cost Carriers
Budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier often operate out of Chicago. These no-frills carriers can offer significantly cheaper fares compared to traditional airlines. While these flights might not include perks like checked bags or in-flight meals, they can be a great option for short trips or travelers looking to save.
4. Set Fare Alerts
Sign up for fare alerts through various travel websites or apps like Hopper, Kayak, or Airfarewatchdog. These alerts notify you when there’s a drop in price for flights on your specified routes, helping you snag deals before they disappear. Setting multiple alerts for different destinations can give you a broader range of options.
5. Book in Advance – But Not Too Far in Advance
While it might seem like a good idea to book your flight months ahead, the best time frame is usually between 3 to 8 weeks before your departure date. This time window typically offers the best balance between availability and price. For international flights, booking three to six months in advance often yields the best deals.
6. Consider Alternative Routes
Non-stop flights are convenient, but they can come with a premium price tag. Investigate whether booking a flight with one or more layovers can save you money. Sometimes, flying into a nearby city and then taking a low-cost carrier or ground transportation to your final destination can be cheaper.
7. Use Points and Miles
Frequent flyers should take advantage of their points and miles. If you fly often or have a travel rewards credit card, accumulate points that can be redeemed for free or discounted flights. Sites like The Points Guy can help you maximize your rewards and find the best redemption deals.
8. Clear Your Cookies and Use Incognito Mode
Travel websites often use cookies to track your searches and may increase prices if they see you repeatedly searching for the same destination. Clear your browser cookies or switch to incognito mode to avoid this. Better yet, compare fares on different devices or networks to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
9. Check for Hidden Fees
Always read the fine print before booking. Low-cost carriers especially are notorious for tacking on hidden fees for things like seat selection, baggage, and even printing your boarding pass at the airport. Factor these costs into your total fare to ensure you’re genuinely getting a deal.
10. Join Airline Newsletters
Airlines often send exclusive deals and flash sales to their newsletter subscribers. Join mailing lists for airlines flying out of Chicago to stay informed about special promotions or last-minute deals.
Conclusion
Flying from Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. By being strategic and savvy with your search, you can uncover some fantastic deals. Whether it’s through adjusting your travel dates, leveraging multiple airports, or taking advantage of fare alerts and reward programs, these tips will help you score big savings on your next trip. Happy travels!