Everyone loves a good deal, and when it comes to traveling, scoring cheap flights to Vegas is crucial for making the most of your trip.
This guide will walk you through different tactics and tools to help you discover the most affordable flights to Vegas. So strap in, and let’s get started!
Off-peak travel seasons
To snag the best deals, consider traveling to Vegas during off-peak seasons, such as early spring and late fall. In these periods, airfare tends to be more affordable, increasing your odds of securing a cheap flight.
Best days of the week to fly
Taking a flight on a weekday, especially on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, can help you pocket some cash on airfare. Flights on weekends usually cost more since that’s when most folks are traveling.
Airfare Comparison Websites
Top websites for cheap flights
Use airfare comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak to search for the cheapest flights to Vegas. These sites compile fares from various airlines and travel agencies, making comparing prices and finding the best deals easy.
Tips for using comparison websites
When using airfare comparison websites, be sure to clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode, as some sites may increase prices if they detect multiple searches for the same destination.
Low-Cost Airlines
Popular budget carriers for flights to Vegas
Consider flying with low-cost airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier. These carriers often offer cheaper flights to Vegas compared to traditional airlines. However, be aware that they may charge extra fees for baggage and other services.
Pros and cons of low-cost airlines
While low-cost airlines can save you money, they may have less desirable flight times, fewer amenities, and stricter baggage policies. Make sure you understand the trade-offs before booking.
Bundling Travel Packages
Benefits of bundling flights with hotels or car rentals
Save money by bundling your flight with a hotel stay or car rental through websites like Expedia, Orbitz, or Priceline. These packages can often be more cost-effective than booking each component separately.
Best websites for travel packages
Some of the top websites to find travel packages include Expedia, Orbitz, Priceline, and Travelocity. Be sure to compare prices across multiple sites to find the best deal.
Set Up Fare Alerts
Tracking cheap flight deals
Use fare alert websites and apps like Hopper, Airfarewatchdog, or Skyscanner to receive notifications when flight prices drop. Simply enter your desired travel dates and destination, and these tools will alert you when a good deal becomes available.
Recommended fare alert websites and apps
Some popular fare alert tools include Hopper, Airfarewatchdog, Skyscanner, and Google Flights. Experiment with different tools to find the one that works best for you.
Be Flexible with Travel Dates and Times
Impact of travel flexibility on flight prices
Being flexible with your travel dates and times can significantly reduce flight costs. If you’re able to fly during off-peak hours or on less popular travel days, you’re more likely to find a cheap flight.
Considering alternate airports
Look into flying into alternate airports near Vegas, such as McCarran International Airport (LAS) or North Las Vegas Airport (VGT). Sometimes, flying into a smaller airport can result in cheaper flights.
Use Frequent Flyer Miles or Credit Card Points
Earning and redeeming points for flights
Take advantage of frequent flyer miles or credit card points to save on flights to Vegas. You might even be able to snag a free flight or at least at a considerable discount when you have enough points.
Best credit cards for travel rewards
Top travel rewards credit cards include Chase Sapphire Preferred, Capital One Venture, and American Express Gold. These cards offer generous rewards programs that can help you earn points for flights.
Book Connecting Flights Separately
Saving money with layovers
Consider booking connecting flights separately to save money. This strategy may require more time and effort but can result in significant savings.
Risks and considerations of booking separate flights
Booking separate connecting flights can be risky, as the airlines may not cover missed connections. Be sure to leave ample time between flights and research your airline’s policies on missed connections.
Take Advantage of Student or Military Discounts
Available discounts for specific groups
Some airlines offer discounts for students, military personnel, and other groups. Check with individual airlines to see if you qualify for any special discounts.
How to apply for discounts
To apply for a student or military discount, you may need to provide proof of eligibility, such as a student or military ID. Contact the airline directly for instructions on how to apply for these discounts.
Check Social Media and Deal Websites
Finding flight promotions online
Follow airlines, travel agencies, and deal websites on social media for exclusive promotions and discounts on flights to Vegas.
Best social media accounts and deal websites to follow
Some popular accounts and websites to follow include @airfarewatchdog on Twitter, The Points Guy on Facebook, and Secret Flying for deals and promotions. Be sure to act quickly, as these offers can expire or sell out fast.
Last-Minute Deals
Scoring cheap flights close to the departure date
Watch out for last-minute deals; airlines may slash prices to fill empty seats. This strategy can be risky, but it may result in significant savings if you’re flexible with your travel plans.
Strategies for last-minute bookings
Check websites like LastMinuteTravel, Priceline, and Hotwire for last-minute flight deals. Be prepared to act quickly and have a backup plan if your desired flight becomes unavailable.
Be Cautious of Hidden Fees
Common fees to watch out for
Be aware of hidden fees when booking cheap flights, such as baggage, seat selection, and change or cancellation fees. These costs can quickly add up and negate the savings from a cheap flight.
How to avoid extra costs
Read the fine print and understand your airline’s fee structure before booking. Consider packing light to avoid baggage fees, and be prepared to accept a random seat assignment to avoid additional charges.
Mistake Fares and Glitches
Understanding mistake fares
Mistake fares are extremely low prices that occur when an airline or booking website accidentally lists a flight for the wrong price. If you can catch a mistake fare, you may be able to score an incredibly cheap flight.
How to find and book glitch fares
Follow websites and social media accounts specializing in finding mistake fares, such as Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog. Be prepared to act quickly; airlines often correct these errors quickly, and bookings may be canceled.
Conclusion
Finding cheap flights to Vegas requires research, flexibility, and a bit of luck. By using the strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to scoring the best deals and making your Vegas vacation even more enjoyable.
FAQs
- What is the best time to book a cheap flight to Vegas?
- The best time to book a cheap flight to Vegas is during off-peak seasons (early spring and late fall) and on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Which airlines offer the cheapest flights to Vegas?
- Low-cost airlines like Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier often offer the cheapest flights to Vegas.
- Can I use frequent flyer miles or credit card points to book cheap flights to Vegas?
- Yes, you can use frequent flyer miles or credit card points to save on flights to Vegas, sometimes even booking flights for free or at a significant discount.
- How can I find last-minute deals on flights to Vegas?
- Check websites like LastMinuteTravel, Priceline, and Hotwire for last-minute flight deals. Be prepared to act quickly and have a backup plan in case your desired flight becomes unavailable.
- What are mistake fares, and how can I find them?
- Mistake fares are extremely low prices that occur when an airline or booking website accidentally lists a flight for the wrong price. Follow websites and social media accounts specializing in finding mistake fares, such as Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog.
