How to Save on Last-Minute Flights in 2025

Planning ahead saves money, but sometimes you need to fly at the last minute — for a wedding, a business trip, or a spontaneous getaway. Don’t worry! With the right strategies, you can still find cheap last-minute flights in 2025.

1. Be Flexible With Dates and Times

• Flying mid-week (Tuesday/Wednesday) is often cheaper.

• Red-eye flights and early morning departures save money.

• Weekend flights are most expensive — avoid if possible.

2. Use Flight Comparison Sites

• Always check multiple platforms (Skyscanner, Google Flights, Kayak).

• Compare one-way tickets — sometimes booking two one-ways is cheaper.

• Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode to avoid price hikes.

3. Consider Nearby Airports

• Flying into secondary airports (like London Stansted instead of Heathrow) is often cheaper.

• Look for train/bus connections to your final destination.

• Some low-cost carriers only fly into alternative airports.

4. Set Price Alerts

• Use apps or websites that notify you when fares drop.

• Book as soon as you see a sudden dip — last-minute deals don’t last long.

5. Book at the Right Time

• Contrary to belief, booking the very last day isn’t always cheapest.

• Airlines often release discounted seats 1–2 weeks before departure.

6. Use Airline Miles & Points

• Last-minute tickets can be a great way to redeem points.

• Many airlines waive high fees if you’re booking with miles.

7. Check Budget Airlines

• Don’t overlook Ryanair, AirAsia, or Spirit Airlines for last-minute deals.

• Just watch out for extra fees (baggage, seat selection).

8. Try Flight + Hotel Packages

• Sometimes booking a bundled package saves more than flights alone.

• Many OTAs (online travel agencies) offer discounts if you book together.

Conclusion

Last-minute travel doesn’t have to mean expensive travel. With flexibility, smart searching, and the right tools, you can still score deals in 2025. Start searching today — your next spontaneous adventure is just a click away!