Saving Money as a First-Time Flier: 10 Essential Tips

Your very first flight is likely to be a nerve-wracking experience, which is completely understandable and definitely not uncommon. Getting everything together and set up, remembering to pack the necessities, and worrying about the trip itself is enough to drive anyone stark-raving mad. With all of that to keep your mind busy, saving money is probably not at the forefront of your itinerary. Well, it should at least be a part of the plan. After all, saving money can be a great first step in ensuring a first-time trip that you’ll never forget. We have scoured the seasoned flyers’ expert opinions to bring you our top ten tips that can help save you money on your flight, like an experienced, veteran air traveler.

10. Find out the cheapest times concerning departure and arrival:

Many different variables can play into how much a flight will cost. This includes the time of departure and arrival, as well as if there are any stopovers on the schedule. When you decide on an airline, you should inquire about which times and routes are the cheapest to travel and plan accordingly. 

09. Pick the perfect day of the week:

As much as timing matters when it comes to the overall cost, the day of the week you are choosing to fly can be just as important in terms of pricing. With most airlines, weekends are typically more expensive. If at all possible, try to choose a flight that is scheduled during a weekday to save a little extra cash.

08. The time of year matters:

As previously stated, timing is going to play a crucial part in finding the cheapest cost for your flight. The time of day, the day of the week, and of course, the time of year will be taken into account with regards to pricing. For instance, traveling during the holidays is always markedly more expensive unless booked far in advance.

07. Plan your budget:

If you plan your budget, exactly what you want to spend, before making the plans for your flight, you are more likely to keep costs down as opposed to someone choosing to just ‘wing it’. Give yourself a set budget and regardless of circumstance, stick to that budget.

06. Compare flights online:

The internet is your friend, my dear friend. Use it to your benefit by comparing flight prices across multiple airlines. There are several websites, such as Travelocity or Expedia, that make doing this an absolute breeze. 

05. Consider possible hidden charges or costs:

Unfortunately, not all of the fees and costs are always going to be straightforward or revealed up-front. Many times there are extra, unexpected charges within the small print, so to speak. Always read the fine print, and it could likely save you quite a bit of money.  

04. Don’t be afraid to ask about any promotions/deals available:

Many airlines run different deals or promotions, some of which might not be readily advertised. There is never any harm in asking about any current, possibly little-known discounts that might be available. This simple question could end up saving you some cash and that is never a bad thing.

03. Use a credit card that offers miles or points:

Quite a few of the major credit card companies offer airline miles or points that you can put towards future air travel. You will basically earn points (and free air-fare!) just by taking the flights that you needed to take anyway. Don’t forget to check out what current offers your credit card company allows (if any).

02. Don’t skip the insurance:

In your quest to save money you might be tempted to skip out on the insurance, but doing so could end costing you so much more (both financially and mentally). Travel insurance ensures that you are covered in most emergencies, including canceling or rescheduling flights or lost luggage. See what your options are as far as coverage types and what they exactly, cover.

01. Do your research:

The very best way to save the most moolah is by simply doing your own in-depth research. Do not be afraid to ask any questions you might have and never make impulsive decisions. Always, always, read the fine print, and remember to check out prior customer reviews.

Other Helpful Tips:

With this being your first (ever!) air traveling experience, it can all get a little bit overwhelming. Having everything prepared, well-researched, and organized can literally make a world of difference. Here are a few more tips to make your first-time flight that much easier.

Organize the necessary paperwork: This may seem like a small detail, but you cannot imagine how many first-time fliers have forgotten a needed form of identification or, yikes, even their passport. Keep everything in a safe, secure, and easily accessible place so it is there when you need it. 

Get yourself familiar with the airports’ procedures: Every airport has its own unique set of rules and procedures. It is important to get acquainted with these rules/procedures preferably before departure day. If anything seems unclear, ask questions!

Arrive ahead of schedule: This is even more important if you have luggage to check or need to check-in at the airport. It can also give you a second chance to double-check everything. There is nothing worse than rushing through boarding time, especially when unprepared.

Check-in online if at all possible: Many (but not all) airlines offer an online check-in option. This can save you time and frustration the day of your flight, and as such, is definitely a benefit worth looking into.

First-time flying can be a scary and somewhat unnerving event, but it doesn’t have to be. Thankfully there are certain measures that you can take to ease some of the worry and stress. Not to mention being in control of the things that you can control, will sometimes help to alleviate the stress from dealing with what you can’t control. Organization is always key. Being prepared, educated, and informed, will help to make the trip go a bit smoother. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy aviation. Bon Voyage virgin flier! Have a safe and happy flight!