If you've ever booked a flight, chances are you've used Google Flights. But what if there was a way to unlock hidden savings and stretch your travel budget even further? Most travelers don’t realize that Google Flights is packed with powerful search tools that can help save hundreds — sometimes even thousands — of dollars on airfare.
Here’s how to use Google Flights like a pro and get the best travel deals every time.
Let the Deal Decide the Destination
Flexibility is the key to scoring cheap flights. Google Flights’ Explore feature allows you to search for flights without setting a specific destination.
Instead, enter a departure airport and let Google show the cheapest places to visit.
Want to go even further? Instead of entering just one departure airport, search multiple nearby cities (e.g., New York includes JFK, LGA and EWR). Adding other major hubs like Boston (BOS) or Philadelphia (PHL) can open up positioning flights that save even more money.
Find the Cheapest Travel Dates
If a destination is locked in but the travel dates are flexible, use the calendar tool to spot the cheapest flights. Instead of manually checking different departure dates, simply enter the route and scroll through the calendar to see price fluctuations in real-time.
For even more precision, adjust the trip length filter to see the best fares for different durations, whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a two-week vacation.
Avoid Budget Airline Surprises
Not all cheap flights are created equal. Google Flights’ cheapest fare filter highlights the lowest prices, but these often come with hidden restrictions, like no carry-on bags or extra fees for seat selection. Always check for the small crossed-out bag icon, which indicates a ticket doesn’t include a carry-on.
For those who prefer comfort over rock-bottom fares, filter out budget airlines like Spirit or Ryanair to avoid the dreaded middle seat with zero legroom.
Use the Price Graph and Alerts
Tracking flight prices is easier than ever with Google’s price graph and price alert features. The price graph shows trends over time, helping determine whether it’s the right moment to book or if waiting a bit longer might lead to a better deal.
Set price alerts for a specific route, and Google will notify you when fares drop. This is especially useful for international trips where prices can fluctuate dramatically.
Airline vs. Travel Portals
Google Flights lists multiple booking options, but the cheapest isn't always the best. While third-party travel agencies may offer slightly lower fares, they can be a nightmare for flight changes or cancellations. Booking directly with the airline is usually the safest bet.
However, if you hold a premium travel credit card, you should always check your card's travel portal, which can sometimes offer better redemption rates or added perks like bonus points and travel insurance.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re flying with a group, Google Flights automatically assigns all tickets to the same fare class. This means if there are only three cheap seats left but you need four, everyone gets bumped to the higher-priced tier. Instead, search for tickets one at a time to maximize savings.
A Smarter Way to Find Flight Deals
If you don’t want to manually check Google Flights every day, Daily Drop Pro can do the work for you. By setting travel preferences, the best deals are delivered straight to your inbox, saving you both time and money.
Even better? Deals found in Daily Drop Pro can be combined with Google Flights’ date grid feature to unlock even more flexible options.
Book Smart, Not Late
There’s no perfect formula for finding the absolute lowest fare, but using these Google Flights hacks can significantly increase the chances of scoring a great deal. The key is flexibility, timing and strategic booking. Instead of waiting forever for the "perfect deal," use the 1-3 month rule for domestic flights and 2-8 months for international flights to maximize savings.
With the right approach, Google Flights can be an incredibly powerful tool for saving money on airfare. Happy flying, friends!
