Finding affordable flights is often a challenge for travelers, but it doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. For residents of St. Joseph, Missouri, landing the best deals on flights just requires a bit of strategic planning and resourceful searching. In this article, we’ll explore a comprehensive guide to help you discover sky-high savings on flights from St. Joseph.
1. Nearby Airport Options
St. Joseph itself doesn’t have a commercial airport, but it’s located conveniently close to several major airports which offer flights at competitive prices. The two primary airports to consider are Kansas City International Airport (MCI), located just an hour away, and Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (OMA), approximately a two-hour drive. Both airports are serviced by multiple airlines, providing plenty of options for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Flexible Travel Dates
Flexibility is key when searching for the cheapest flights. If your travel dates are not set in stone, use fare comparison tools that allow you to view prices across an entire month. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper can show you the cheapest days to fly. Typically, flying on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, can yield the best discounts.
3. Early Bird Catches the Worm
Booking your flight well in advance can often result in substantial savings. Airlines generally release tickets about 11 months in advance, and the lower fare classes sell out quickly. According to various travel experts, the best time to book domestic flights is between 1 to 3 months before your departure date, while international flights are ideally booked around 3 to 6 months ahead.
4. Sign Up for Fare Alerts
Don’t miss out on limited-time deals by signing up for fare alerts from websites like Airfarewatchdog, Skyscanner, and Google Flights. These services notify you when flight prices drop for your specified routes, helping you snap up the best deals as soon as they become available.
5. Leverage Frequent Flyer Miles and Points
Frequent flyer miles and credit card points can significantly reduce, or even eliminate, the cost of your flights. Many credit cards offer lucrative sign-up bonuses that can be converted into flight miles. It’s worthwhile to join airline loyalty programs and accumulate points every time you fly. Over time, those points can be redeemed for free or heavily discounted flights.
6. Explore Budget Airlines
Don’t overlook budget airlines like Southwest, Frontier, and Spirit, which frequently operate out of Kansas City International Airport. These airlines often offer significantly lower fares than their full-service counterparts. Bear in mind, though, that budget airlines may charge extra for amenities such as checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight refreshments, so factor these costs into your total travel budget.
7. Be Open to Layovers
Non-stop flights offer convenience but often come at a premium price. If your schedule allows, consider flights with layovers. Sometimes breaking your journey can save you a considerable amount of money, and it might even allow for a brief city exploration during a layover.
8. Use Online Travel Agencies and Meta-Search Engines
Websites like Expedia, Kayak, and Momondo aggregate flight options from various airlines and travel agencies, allowing you to compare prices and find hidden gems. Often these platforms can offer exclusive deals that aren’t available directly through the airline’s website.
9. Act Fast
Once you find a great deal, don’t procrastinate. Flight prices are highly volatile and can change within hours. Use those fare alerts and be ready to book immediately to secure the best price.
In summary, scoring the cheapest flights from St. Joseph requires a blend of flexibility, advanced planning, savvy use of technology, and a bit of patience. By following the tips outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to achieving substantial savings on your next flight, leaving you with more money to enjoy your destination. Happy travels!