How to Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights​?

Google Flights is a travel search tool that helps users quickly find, compare, and track flight prices across numerous airlines and destinations. With features like flexible date searches, price alerts, and an Explore map, Google Flights allows travelers to easily spot the best fares based on their preferences. Although it doesn’t handle bookings directly, Google Flights redirects users to airline or travel agency sites to complete purchases. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive search options, and transparency on baggage fees make it a popular choice for both budget and flexible travelers.

Find Cheap Flights using Google Flights

Here’s a detailed guide on how to use Google Flights to find cheap flights. Using these tools and strategies on Google Flights can help you find the best deals, making it a powerful resource for affordable travel planning.

1. Start with Google Flights Search

• Go to Google Flights.
• Enter your departure and destination cities, and travel dates.
• Choose between one-way, round-trip, or multi-city options based on your travel needs.
• Google Flights will show a list of available flights, including details like airlines, flight times, prices, and duration.

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2. Use Flexible Date & Price Tools

Calendar View for Price Comparison

• Once you enter your travel route, click on the Calendar icon to view prices across different dates.
• The calendar highlights the lowest price available each day, making it easy to find the most affordable travel dates.

Date Grid & Price Graph

• Select the Date Grid tab to see a matrix of prices across various date combinations, perfect for spotting the best dates for a round-trip journey.
• The Price Graph tool displays trends for the route over time, which is helpful if you’re planning to travel soon and want to identify when prices might dip.

3. Set Up Price Tracking Alerts

• Track Prices by toggling on the “Track prices” button after running a search.
• You’ll receive email notifications if there are significant price changes for your chosen route and dates. This feature is especially useful if your travel dates aren’t fixed, allowing you to book when fares drop.

4. Explore Destinations for Flexible Travelers

• Click on Explore (in the top-left menu) to see the cheapest flights to destinations worldwide from your departure airport.
• You can filter by budget, duration, airlines, and trip duration to discover affordable options within your travel range.
• This tool is ideal for open-minded travelers who are flexible with their destination and want to get the best deals available.

5. Apply Filters to Narrow Down Options

• Use filters to specify your preferences, such as:
  • Stops: Non-stop, 1-stop, or 2+ stops.
  • Airlines and Alliances: Choose specific airlines or airline alliances (e.g., Star Alliance).
  • Baggage: Filter based on whether the fare includes carry-on or checked bags.
  • Times: Set preferred departure and arrival times to fit your schedule.
• Applying filters can help you find the best flights that meet both your budget and travel needs.

6. Check Nearby Airports for Lower Prices

• To increase your chances of finding cheaper flights, search for departures from nearby airports.
• Google Flights allows you to add nearby airports within a specified distance, which may yield better fares.
• Similarly, consider alternate arrival airports close to your destination, as this can sometimes lead to savings.

7. Consider Layovers for Additional Savings

• Flights with layovers are often cheaper than direct flights, and Google Flights highlights these options.
• Review layover times to ensure you’re comfortable with them, and check layover airports that are convenient for you.
• This is a good strategy for those open to longer travel times to save money.

8. Check Baggage & Seat Fees

• Google Flights often shows baggage allowance and fees for each flight, which can help you determine the true cost of your ticket.
• Some low-cost fares may not include carry-on or checked baggage, so make sure to review these details.
• Knowing baggage policies in advance can help you avoid extra fees at the airport.

9. Compare Booking Sources

• When you select a flight, Google Flights displays booking options, including direct airline bookings and third-party travel agencies.
• Compare these options to find the best deal, as prices can vary slightly between sources.
• Booking directly with the airline can provide more straightforward customer service if issues arise, though third-party agencies sometimes offer lower prices.

10. Review Price Insights & Historical Trends

• Google Flights may show whether prices for your route are low, typical, or high based on historical data.
• Occasionally, Google Flights offers advice on whether to book now or wait if prices are likely to drop.

11. Book When You Find the Best Deal

• Once you find a good price, click on the flight to view booking options and proceed to the airline or third-party website.
• Complete your booking, double-checking that the fare and terms (like baggage) are accurate.