Traveling is an incredible way to make memories, whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family adventure with the kids. But let’s be real—flights can take a big chunk out of your travel budget, especially when you’re juggling work, parenting, and all the expenses that come with it. The good news? Scoring affordable airfare isn’t as hard as it seems. With the right strategies, you can find great deals without sacrificing comfort or convenience. If you’re a working parent who loves to travel but needs to stick to a budget, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you save on flights.

1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

One of the easiest ways to save money on flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Airlines adjust their prices based on demand, and flying on certain days of the week can be much cheaper than others. Generally, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the cheapest days to fly, while weekends tend to be the most expensive. If your schedule allows, try searching for flights within a date range rather than sticking to one specific day.

2. Book in Advance

While last-minute deals do exist, they’re not always reliable—especially if you’re traveling with kids and need to plan ahead. The sweet spot for booking domestic flights is usually 1-3 months in advance, while international flights are best booked 4-6 months ahead. Booking too early can sometimes be just as expensive as waiting until the last minute, so keep an eye on price trends before committing.

3. Use Flight Search Engines and Set Alerts

Flight search engines like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Momondo make it easy to compare prices across different airlines. Many of these tools also let you set price alerts, so you’ll get notified when fares drop for your chosen destination. This is a great way to score deals without constantly checking prices yourself.

4. Consider Alternative Airports

If you live near a major city, check flights from nearby airports in addition to your main one. For example, flying out of a smaller regional airport or even a neighboring city could save you hundreds of dollars. The same goes for your destination—landing at a less popular airport and taking a short train or bus ride into your final destination might be more affordable than flying directly there.

5. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Peak travel seasons—such as summer, major holidays, and spring break—usually come with sky-high ticket prices. If you can plan your trips during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or even in the off-season, you’ll likely find much better deals. Plus, destinations are often less crowded, making for a more enjoyable experience.

6. Take Advantage of Airline Miles and Rewards Programs

If you frequently travel, signing up for airline rewards programs can be a game-changer. Many airlines offer free loyalty programs that allow you to earn miles for every flight you take, which can later be redeemed for free or discounted flights. Even if you don’t fly often, some credit cards offer travel rewards that can help offset the cost of airfare.

7. Don’t Overlook Budget Airlines

Budget airlines like Southwest, Spirit, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer significantly lower fares than major carriers. Just be sure to read the fine print—many of these airlines charge extra for things like baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals. If you pack light and don’t mind a no-frills experience, flying with a budget airline can save you a lot of money.

8. Book One-Way Tickets Separately

Sometimes, booking two separate one-way tickets with different airlines can be cheaper than booking a traditional round-trip ticket. This is especially true for international travel, where budget airlines may offer lower prices for one leg of your journey. Play around with different combinations to see what works best for your budget.

9. Use Incognito Mode When Searching

Have you ever noticed that flight prices seem to increase after you’ve searched for them multiple times? Airlines and booking sites use cookies to track your searches and may raise prices based on demand. To avoid this, use your browser’s incognito or private mode when looking for flights, or clear your cookies between searches.

10. Consider Booking Flights with Layovers

Nonstop flights are convenient, but they’re often more expensive. If you don’t mind a short layover, you can save a significant amount on airfare. Just make sure to leave yourself enough time between connections—especially when traveling with kids—to avoid stressful dashes through the airport.

11. Check for Special Discounts

Many airlines offer discounts for students, military personnel, seniors, and even families traveling with young children. Check airline websites or call their customer service to ask about any special promotions. Some airlines also offer reduced fares for kids, making family travel more affordable.

12. Be Ready to Book When You See a Deal

Flight prices can change quickly, sometimes within hours. If you find a great deal, don’t hesitate too long—seats at the lowest prices sell out fast. Have your payment details ready and be prepared to book immediately if you spot a fare that fits your budget.

13. Use a Mix of Points and Cash

If you have some airline miles or credit card points but not enough for a full ticket, see if you can use a combination of points and cash. Some airlines and travel rewards programs allow you to offset part of your ticket price with points, helping you save without needing a massive balance.

14. Check Different Currencies

Believe it or not, booking flights in a different currency can sometimes be cheaper. Some airlines adjust their prices based on the country you’re booking from, so try switching your location settings on airline websites to see if you can score a better deal. Just be sure to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges.

15. Pack Smart to Avoid Extra Fees

Airlines make a lot of money from baggage fees, so packing light can help you cut costs. Stick to carry-on luggage whenever possible, and check airline policies to see if personal items like a backpack or diaper bag can count as a free extra bag. If you’re traveling with kids, consolidating items into fewer suitcases can save money on checked baggage fees.