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Finding affordable flights is a game-changer for any traveller who loves to explore new places without breaking the bank. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in travel technology has made it much easier to locate the best deals on airline tickets by being flexible with travel dates.
AI can help save money on flights by predicting price drops and finding cheaper options that you might miss on your own. Additionally, there are numerous tips and tools available to help you find cheap flights, ensuring you have access to low-cost options.
AI-powered apps like Hopper and Skyscanner’s Layla are at the forefront of this revolution. They analyse vast amounts of data to forecast the best times to book flights, making the process smoother and more efficient. Using AI for trip planning doesn’t just save you money, it also saves you time and effort.
In this guide, you will learn how to use these AI tools to your advantage, ensuring you get the best deals on your flights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first trip, integrating AI into your search will make your journey more enjoyable and cost-effective.
Choose the Right AI Tools for Cheap Flights
Choosing the right AI tools can help you save money and time when booking budget flights by considering hidden costs and additional fees. Here are some of the best options:
Hopper
Hopper is a popular app that uses AI to predict flight prices. It tracks millions of flight prices daily and provides you with the best time to book. The app also offers:
- Price predictions: Know when to book flight tickets for the cheapest rates and save money.
- Notifications: Get alerts when prices drop.
- Flexibility: Find alternative dates for lower prices on flight tickets.
Skyscanner
Skyscanner utilises AI to offer comprehensive flight search capabilities. It compares prices from various airlines and travel agencies. Key features include:
- Price alerts: Receive updates on price changes.
- Flexible search: Explore flights across a month to find the cheapest days. When searching flights, use trackers to find the best time to book and save money.
- Easy interface: Simple, user-friendly design.
You can refer to the table below for a quick comparison of these AI tools:
| Tool | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hopper | Predicting future prices | Price predictions, alerts, alternative dates |
| Kayak | Comprehensive search | Searches from hundreds of airlines and sites |
| Skyscanner | Price comparison | Price alerts, flexible search, user-friendly design |
Set Up Price Alerts
Find cheap flights by setting up price alerts to score the best prices on flights without constantly checking prices yourself. Various tools and platforms can assist you with this.
Using Google Flights Alerts
- Go to Google Flights: Visit the Google Flights website.
- Enter Travel Details: Input your departure and destination airports, travel dates, and hit “Search”.
- Track Prices: Click the button to track prices for your chosen route. Google will monitor prices and inform you of changes, helping you find a cheap flight by keeping an eye on affordable options.
Using Hopper
- Download the Hopper App: Get the Hopper app from your mobile app store.
- Input Travel Information: Enter your flight details within the app.
- Set Up Alerts: Hopper will notify you when prices drop, helping you find the cheapest flights. Set up alerts to get real-time updates and book at the best rates.
Benefits of Skyscanner’s Price Alerts
- Free to Use: Skyscanner’s price alerts come at no extra cost.
- Customisable Alerts: Tailor alerts to your specific routes and dates.
- Real-Time Updates: Receive notifications on price changes almost instantly.
- Compare Prices: Skyscanner allows you to compare prices, including those for direct flights and flights with layovers, helping you find the best deals.
You can also refer to the table below for a quick comparison of these price alert platforms:
| Feature | Google Flights | Hopper | Skyscanner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | Website | Mobile App | Website/App |
| Price Alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Real-Time Updates | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Custom Alerts | Limited | Some | Extensive |
Utilize AI Predictions for Flight Deals
AI-powered tools like Hopper can help you save on flights by predicting when prices will be at their lowest. Hopper’s prediction models analyse historical flight data and various factors to forecast future prices with high accuracy.
Step 1: Download the App
Begin by downloading an AI-based flight prediction app such as Hopper.
Step 2: Input Your Travel Details
Enter your departure and destination cities, as well as your preferred travel dates. The app can help you find budget options for various destinations, including international flights.
Step 3: Monitor Fare Predictions
Keep an eye on the app’s notifications. It will alert you when flight prices are expected to drop or rise.
Step 4: Book at the Right Time
Use the app’s recommendation to book your flight. If it suggests waiting, hold off to potentially save more money.
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of AI predictions:
- Be Flexible: Adjust travel dates slightly to find the best deals.
- Set Alerts: Receive real-time updates on price changes.
- Check Alternatives: Look for nearby airports or different airlines.
Compare and Book to Save Money
To find the best flight deals, start by using AI tools. These tools can compare prices across multiple platforms, making it easier for you to choose the best option.
Begin by visiting a flight comparison site like Skyscanner or Google Flights. These websites allow you to search for flights from various airlines and travel agencies.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you:
- Visit a Comparison Site: Go to a site like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Consider package holiday deals that include flights, accommodations, and additional services such as airport transfers, which can offer significant savings.
- Enter Your Details: Fill in your departure and destination cities, travel dates, and the number of passengers.
- Activate AI Features: Some sites have an AI-powered feature that shows flexible dates, alternative airports, or hidden discounts.
- Review Results: Look at the results presented. You will see a list of flights sorted by price, duration, and airline.
- Compare Prices: Use the AI tool to compare these prices. Look at the benefits of each flight, such as baggage allowances or in-flight services.
After comparing prices and options, booking is straightforward:
- Select Your Flight: Choose the flight that fits your needs and budget.
- Click to Book: Click on the link provided by the comparison site to book directly with the airline or travel agency.
- Fill in the Details: Enter your personal and payment details.
- Conclusion
To save big on flights, follow these straightforward steps:
- Collect Data: Use AI tools to gather historical data on flight prices.
- Analyse Trends: Let machine learning algorithms predict future price variations.
- Set Alerts: Enable notifications for price drops on your preferred routes.
- Book Smart: Compare one-way versus return tickets to find the best deal.
AI tools not only help you find cheaper flights but also save you time. The algorithms do the hard work, so you can easily spot the best fares.
AI isn’t just for tech enthusiasts. It’s accessible and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for any traveller looking to save money.
Start using AI for your travel planning today. You’ll find it a reliable partner in making your trips more affordable. Enjoy smarter travel without breaking the bank!
