Top Tips for Finding Cheap Flights from Longmont
Living in Longmont, Colorado, combines the charm of a peaceful small town with the convenience of being close to major urban areas and airports. If you’re itching for a getaway but need to stick to a budget, finding affordable flights is paramount. Here are some top tips to help you snag the best deals on airfare:
1. Choose the Right Airport
While Longmont itself doesn’t have a commercial airport, it’s strategically located near several major airports, offering a gateway to cheaper flights. The closest options are:
- Denver International Airport (DEN): About 42 miles from Longmont, Denver International is a major hub with numerous flight options, often offering the most competitive prices due to the high volume of flights.
- Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport (FNL): Although smaller and with limited commercial service, it’s worth comparing prices and deals, especially for domestic flights.
- Colorado Springs Airport (COS): Approximately 110 miles from Longmont, this airport may also have competitive rates and is worth considering.
2. Flexibility is Key
Flexibility with your travel dates and times can significantly impact the cost of your flights. Utilizing tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, you can explore the cheapest days to fly around your intended travel dates. Typically, mid-week flights (Tuesday and Wednesday) are cheaper, and flying during off-peak hours (early morning or late at night) can also yield savings.
3. Set Fare Alerts
Many travel websites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Hopper offer fare alert services. Setting up these alerts allows you to be notified when the price drops for your desired route. This proactive approach can help you secure the best rates before they increase.
4. Explore Budget Airlines
Denver International Airport hosts several budget airlines such as Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines. These airlines often offer lower base fares, though they may charge separately for extras like checked bags and seat selection. If you’re willing to forego some luxuries, flying budget could save you a substantial amount.
5. Book in Advance but Not Too Far Out
Conventional wisdom suggests booking flights around 6-8 weeks before departure for the best prices. However, this can vary depending on the season and destination. For peak travel times such as holidays or summer vacations, booking even earlier can be beneficial.
6. Use Airline Miles and Credit Card Rewards
Make the most out of frequent flyer programs and credit card rewards. Airlines like United, Delta, and Southwest operate out of Denver International and have loyalty programs that can offer significant savings. Additionally, travel-focused credit cards often provide miles or points that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel expenses.
7. Consider Nearby Airports
Sometimes, it’s worth comparing the prices of flights into and out of alternative airports. For instance, checking flights to and from Colorado Springs Airport can sometimes result in cheaper fares, even when including the cost of transport to or from Longmont.
8. Avoid Peak Travel Periods
Flying during peak travel periods can drastically increase costs. If you have the flexibility, try to travel during shoulder seasons (late spring and early autumn) when the weather is still good but the crowds and prices are lower.
9. Be Aware of Hidden Fees
When booking with budget airlines, be aware of potential hidden costs such as baggage fees, seat selection fees, and other charges that can add up. Always read the fine print to understand the total cost of your ticket.
10. Use Incognito Mode
Travel websites often use cookies to track your search history and may increase prices based on your activity. By searching for flights in incognito or private browsing mode, you can prevent pricing algorithms from affecting your search results and potentially find lower fares.
Conclusion
Finding cheap flights from Longmont requires a mix of strategy, flexibility, and a bit of tech-savviness. By considering various nearby airports, setting fare alerts, and staying flexible with your travel dates, you can discover affordable travel options without breaking the bank. So start planning, keep these tips in mind, and get ready to explore new destinations without the hefty price tag!