Finding the cheapest flights from the UK this summer doesn’t have to be complicated. With travel demand high and prices constantly changing, knowing where to look and when to book can make a huge difference to your holiday budget.
In fact, a recent report from the Civil Aviation Authority showed that the average UK passenger spends £208 on a short haul flight during the summer months, highlighting just how valuable it is to hunt for the best deals.
Be Flexible with Dates
There are many ways to get cheap flights, but the first step is to be flexible with your travel dates. Flight prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and even the month. Generally, midweek flights tend to be cheaper than weekend departures, and early morning or late night flights often cost less than those during peak hours.
Using flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights allows you to explore a whole month’s worth of fares, helping you identify the cheapest days to fly.
Consider Alternative Airports and Destinations
Another tip is to be open about your destination. While many travellers have their hearts set on a specific city or resort, considering alternative airports or nearby cities can save a surprising amount.
For example, flying into Beauvais instead of Paris, or Girona instead of Barcelona, often results in lower fares. Additionally, smaller regional airports in the UK, such as Manchester, Bristol, or Newcastle, can offer better deals than major hubs like Heathrow or Gatwick, particularly for budget airlines.
Book in Advance
Booking in advance is another crucial strategy. While last minute deals do occasionally appear, the safest way to secure a cheap flight is by planning ahead. Experts generally recommend booking short-haul flights 6–8 weeks before departure and long-haul flights 3–6 months in advance.
However, keep an eye out for airline sales, which often offer significant discounts even closer to the departure date. Signing up for airline newsletters and fare alerts can keep you informed about these special offers.
Take Advantage of Budget Airlines
Budget airlines have revolutionised affordable travel, and taking advantage of their services is essential if you want to save money. Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air frequently offer heavily discounted tickets, especially when booked early.
While they may charge extra for baggage or seat selection, flying with a carry-on only can help you avoid additional costs. Additionally, consider connecting flights with budget carriers instead of booking a single direct flight with a traditional airline, as this can sometimes result in cheaper overall fares.
Search at the Right Time
Timing your search can also pay off. Studies suggest that Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the best days to find reduced fares, as airlines tend to release discounts early in the week.
Avoid searching for flights on weekends when demand is higher, as this can drive prices up. Using “incognito mode” on your browser can also prevent flight comparison websites from raising prices based on repeated searches, ensuring you see the lowest available fares.
Use Loyalty Programmes and Travel Cards
Loyalty programmes and travel credit cards can also contribute to cost savings. Frequent flyer miles, reward points and cashback offers can reduce the overall price of your flight or even cover it entirely.
If you travel abroad regularly, investing in a card that earns travel points could be worthwhile. Additionally, some airlines allow you to combine cash and points for a partially discounted ticket, which can be particularly useful during the busy summer months.
Explore Package Deals
Finally, consider package deals and alternative booking methods. Some travel agencies offer bundles that include flights, accommodation and transfers at a reduced rate compared with booking each component separately. While online booking platforms are convenient, exploring local travel agents or smaller websites can sometimes uncover hidden deals not widely advertised.
Finding cheap flights from the UK this summer is about combining flexibility, research and smart strategies. By choosing the right dates, airports and airlines, signing up for alerts and making the most of loyalty programmes, you can significantly reduce your travel costs. With careful planning, you can enjoy your summer holiday without overspending on flights, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.