When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Los Angeles? The Ultimate Guide for Broke Backpackers
So, you're dreaming of palm trees, endless sunshine, and the allure of Hollywood, huh? Well, hold your horses, hotshot! Before you start booking those flights and imagining yourself sipping margaritas by the pool, let's talk about something a little less glamorous: money. Specifically, how to save a pretty penny on your flight to the City of Angels.
The Lowdown on Cheap Flights
Let's face it, flights can be as expensive as a Kardashian's wardrobe. But fear not, frugal friend! There are ways to avoid paying a ransom for a ticket to LA.
The Golden Rule: Be Flexible If your schedule is more like jelly than concrete, you're in luck. Airlines love to fill empty seats, so being flexible with your travel dates can lead to some serious savings. Think Tuesdays and Wednesdays for departures and avoid peak travel times like holidays and school breaks.
Shoulder Season is Your Friend Forget the crowds and inflated prices of summer. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer a sweet spot of pleasant weather and cheaper flights. Plus, you'll have a better chance of scoring a decent hotel room without breaking the bank.
Mid-Week Madness Believe it or not, flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday can often be cheaper than weekend departures. It's like the airline world's version of "Taco Tuesday."
Book in Advance (But Not Too Far in Advance) The sweet spot for booking flights is usually 2-3 months ahead. Booking too early can be risky, as prices might drop. On the other hand, leaving it to the last minute is a gamble that rarely pays off.
Consider Alternative Airports If you're open to a little adventure, exploring alternative airports can lead to significant savings. For example, flying into Burbank or Long Beach instead of LAX might be cheaper and less stressful.
Avoid These Flight Fare Faux Pas
- Booking on a Friday or Sunday: These are peak travel days, so expect higher prices.
- Traveling during school holidays: Families flock to LA during breaks, driving up costs.
- Ignoring price alerts: Set up alerts on your favorite travel websites to track price fluctuations.
How to Find the Best Flight Deals
- Use flight comparison websites: Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak are great starting points.
- Be flexible with your destination: Sometimes, exploring nearby cities can lead to unexpected savings.
- Consider package deals: Booking your flight and hotel together can sometimes save you money.
- Use incognito mode: Some websites track your search history and might increase prices.
- Enroll in airline loyalty programs: Earn points and miles for future discounts.
How to...
- How to find last-minute flight deals? Be flexible with your dates and destinations, and use websites like Scott's Cheap Flights or Secret Flying.
- How to get the best seat on the plane? Check airline seat maps online, choose your seat during booking, or contact the airline directly.
- How to pack light for a trip to LA? Opt for versatile clothing, layer up, and pack only essentials.
- How to save money on accommodations in LA? Consider hostels, vacation rentals, or staying outside the main tourist areas.
- How to experience LA on a budget? Explore free activities like hiking, beach days, and visiting free museums.
