How to find a cheaper flight
Fares change constantly, so compare more than one search engine before you book. Aviasales, Trip.com and Kiwi.com each pull prices from a different mix of airlines and online travel agencies, and the cheapest option for the same route can differ between them.
Flexibility is the biggest lever you control. Shifting your departure by a day or two, flying midweek or choosing a nearby airport often lowers the price more than any booking trick. Many flight search sites let you compare nearby dates before you settle on a fare.
Check what the fare includes. Low-cost tickets often exclude checked bags, seat selection or changes, so compare the total price for the way you actually travel, not just the headline number.
Direct or connecting?
Connecting itineraries are often cheaper, especially on long-haul routes, but they add time and risk. Leave enough time to change planes; international connections usually need more than domestic ones.
Separately booked flights, sometimes sold as self-transfer, are usually not protected by the airlines if the first flight is late. Check what the booking site guarantees before you choose one.
When to book
There is no single perfect day to buy. As a rule of thumb, start watching prices a few months ahead for international trips and a month or two ahead for domestic ones, and book when you see a fare you are happy with. Peak periods such as school holidays and major festivals tend to fill up early and rarely get cheaper close to departure.
Plan the rest of the trip
Once you have a fare, TravelAnywhere's AI planner can build a day-by-day itinerary around your dates, with places to stay, things to do and ways to get around.