Booking a flight at the last minute can often lead to high prices, but with a few smart strategies, you can still find affordable options. Whether you're planning a spontaneous getaway or dealing with an unexpected change in plans, here’s how to score the best last-minute flight deals. By staying flexible, using the right tools, and knowing where to look, you can save money on airfare and make your trip budget-friendly.

Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations

When it comes to last-minute travel, flexibility is key. Flights tend to be cheaper if you’re open to flying on weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, which are often less popular travel days. Similarly, being flexible with your destination can open up more affordable options. Try searching for flights to multiple nearby airports or consider alternative cities within the region. Many flight comparison sites allow you to search for flights to “anywhere” on flexible dates, helping you find the best deal available.

Use Flight Comparison Websites and Apps

Flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights are invaluable tools for finding last-minute deals. These platforms search across multiple airlines and travel agencies, allowing you to compare prices instantly. You can also set up price alerts to notify you of sudden price drops on specific routes. Some apps, like Hopper, even use predictive algorithms to estimate the best time to book based on historical data. Take advantage of these tools to keep track of price trends and jump on deals as soon as they become available.

Check Budget Airlines

Budget airlines often offer discounted last-minute fares, as they aim to fill up every seat before departure. Airlines like Spirit, Ryanair, and EasyJet frequently have last-minute deals on flights within a certain time frame. However, be mindful of additional fees for things like checked luggage, seat selection, and onboard amenities. Budget airlines may not offer the same level of service as larger carriers, but if you’re traveling light and prioritize cost over comfort, these airlines can be a great way to save money.

Subscribe to Airline Newsletters and Alerts

Airlines frequently send out last-minute deals through their newsletters or mobile apps. By subscribing to your favorite airlines’ newsletters or downloading their apps, you can receive notifications about flash sales and limited-time discounts. Some airlines also offer “mystery” or “surprise” fares that are only available to subscribers. This way, you can stay informed about exclusive deals and be ready to book as soon as they’re released.

Book Flights at Odd Hours

Airfare can vary greatly depending on the time of day you book. Many travelers find better deals when searching for flights late at night or early in the morning, as fewer people are actively booking at these times. Additionally, flights with less desirable departure times—such as very early in the morning or late at night—tend to be cheaper. Booking flights during these “off-peak” hours can lead to significant savings, especially for last-minute trips.

Consider Alternate Airports

If your destination has more than one airport nearby, consider checking for flights into alternate airports. Smaller airports often have lower fees and may offer cheaper flights. For instance, flying into Long Beach instead of LAX or Baltimore instead of Dulles can sometimes result in substantial savings. Similarly, flying out of a smaller airport near your departure city may yield better last-minute deals than larger, busier airports.

Leverage Travel Rewards and Points

If you’ve accumulated travel rewards points or airline miles, last-minute flights are a great opportunity to use them. Many credit card reward programs and frequent flyer programs offer points redemption for flights, which can be particularly valuable for last-minute travel when cash fares are high. Check with your credit card issuer or airline to see if they have any last-minute redemption options. Some rewards programs also offer “points boosters” or allow you to combine cash with points, making it easier to cover the cost of a last-minute ticket.

Utilize Social Media and Follow Travel Deal Accounts

Many airlines and travel agencies post flash sales and last-minute deals on social media. Following airlines, travel bloggers, and deal sites like Secret Flying or The Flight Deal on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook can help you stay up-to-date on last-minute offers. Some travel accounts specialize in finding low-cost flights and can notify you of sales or unexpected price drops. Turn on notifications for these accounts so you never miss a great deal.

By using these strategies, you can score affordable last-minute flights and enjoy your travel without breaking the bank. From leveraging technology to being flexible and resourceful, there are plenty of ways to find budget-friendly options for last-minute flights. With a bit of planning and quick decision-making, you can take advantage of unexpected opportunities and make spontaneous travel more accessible and affordable.