Cheap flights are out there and you don’t have to get up at 4am to catch them (although sometimes that helps). Here are the best tricks I’ve found for snagging a great flight deal.

1. Plan ahead: check out prices over a few weeks so that you’ll know a good deal when you see it.
2. Sales smart: identify the airlines that fly your route and keep an eye out for their sales.
3. Be flexible: (especially for short breaks): you can save a lot of cash by taking Monday off work rather than Friday and travelling Saturday to Monday instead of Friday to Sunday. Mid-week breaks are even cheaper.
4. Avoid holidays: check for public and school holidays in your destination and try to avoid these dates.
5. Be transfer smart: It’s not worth saving £20 with an early-morning flight if you have to get to the airport before public transport has started because you may end up spending even more on a taxi. It can be hard to convince a friend to give you a lift at 5am too!
6. Use neighbouring airports: check fares to all the airports in the region. Smaller airports are often just as close or you can get a cheap train fare to the centre.
7. Book online: airlines often offer web-only deals so it pays to book online.
8. Try somewhere new: why not visit an up-and-coming region? Cheap flights are often easier to find and you’ll be ahead of the crowds.
9. Use a price comparison site: OK I had to add it, price comparison sites are an easy way to search for cheap flights and what do you know you’re on one now!
10. Be cheeky: if the price goes down just after you’ve bought your tickets don’t be afraid to ask for a discount.
11. Carry on (one for the budget airlines): avoid extra fees by only bringing carry-on luggage, checking in online and paying by debit card.