Finding affordable flights from Calgary doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few smart strategies and some insider knowledge, you can score great deals and save money on your next trip. Here are some top tips to help you book affordable flights from Calgary.
Plan and Book Early
Flight booking Calgary early is one of the best ways to get a good deal. Airlines often release tickets at lower prices months in advance. Aim to book your flight at least three to six months ahead to take advantage of these lower rates. Planning early can save you a lot of money and give you more options to choose from.
Be Flexible with Travel Dates
If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you’ll have a better chance of finding cheaper flights. Mid-week flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are usually cheaper than weekend flights. Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare prices on different dates and find the best deals.
Use Flight Comparison Websites
Flight comparison websites are fantastic for finding the best deals. Sites like Expedia, Kayak, and Momondo let you compare prices from different airlines all in one place. These platforms also have filters to help you narrow down your choices based on your preferences, such as layovers, flight duration, and airlines.
Set Price Alerts
Setting price alerts is a great way to keep track of fare changes and book flights when prices drop. Apps like Hopper and Airfarewatchdog allow you to set alerts for specific routes. You’ll get notifications when prices go down, making it easier to snag the lowest fares.
Consider Nearby Airports
While Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the main airport, nearby airports might offer cheaper flights. Check flights from Edmonton International Airport (YEG) or even consider driving to a U.S. airport like Great Falls International Airport (GTF) for international flights. Comparing prices from these airports can sometimes save you a lot of money.
Look for Deals and Discounts
Airlines often have deals and discounts, especially during sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Boxing Day. Sign up for newsletters from airlines and travel agencies to get notifications about upcoming sales. Following airlines on social media can also keep you informed about flash sales and special offers.
Use Frequent Flyer Programs
Frequent flyer programs can offer significant savings for regular travelers. Join loyalty programs like Air Canada’s Aeroplan or WestJet Rewards to earn points or miles on flights. You can redeem these points for free or discounted flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses.
Consider Alternative Routes
Direct flights are convenient but often more expensive. Consider booking flights with layovers or alternative routes to save money. Multi-city or open-jaw tickets, where you fly into one city and return from another, can also offer cost savings. Use tools like ITA Matrix to explore different routing options.
Book Group Tickets Separately
When booking flights for multiple people, it might be cheaper to book tickets individually rather than as a group. Airlines often have a limited number of seats available at the lowest fare, and booking multiple seats together can raise the price for all tickets. Booking separately can help you get the lowest fares.
Utilize Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Travel rewards credit cards offer points or miles for every dollar you spend, which you can redeem for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Cards like the American Express Cobalt or the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite offer generous rewards and travel benefits. Use these cards for everyday purchases to accumulate points quickly.
Final Thoughts – Booking Affordable Flights from Calgary
Booking affordable flights from Calgary is easier than you might think. Make sure you plan early, are flexible with your travel dates, and use flight comparison websites. This can help you find great deals on airfare. Don’t forget to set price alerts, consider nearby airports, and use travel rewards credit cards to maximize your savings. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to booking affordable flights and enjoying your next adventure.