Flying This Summer? 4 Ways to Save

Airfare is getting expensive. Here's how to spend less when you fly.

During the coronavirus pandemic last summer, boarding a plane was unappealing to a lot of people. But now, with many people vaccinated against COVID-19, flying no longer seems as daunting.

But one thing may stop you from traveling by airplane this summer: the cost. Air fares were 24% higher this May than in May 2020, according to the Consumer Price Index. And with travel demand soaring, airfares could easily stay high for the rest of the summer.

If you plan to fly soon, a few strategic moves on your part could result in some nice savings. Here are a few ways to spend less.

1. Travel at off-peak times

The entire summer constitutes a peak time when it comes to the cost of flights. But you may snag slightly discounted airfare by avoiding departures on certain days (like Fridays and Mondays). Also avoid Labor Day weekend.

2. Cash in your air miles

If you have a travel rewards credit card, now may be the time to redeem points you've accumulated for a free flight. Similarly, if you have air miles saved up from a loyalty program, it pays to see if you can use them to cover part or all of your next journey.

3. Play around with flexible dates

You never know when traveling on a Tuesday versus a Wednesday might result in a lower fare. Many airlines let you choose flexible dates when you input your travel details. If you're not locked into a specific departure or arrival date, play around with those and see what savings result. You may end up with an equally convenient flight time, but at a reduced cost.

4. Choose a less convenient airport

You might pay more to fly out of a centrally located airport than a smaller one that's farther away. But if you're willing to add to your travel time, flying out of a less-trafficked airport can work to your benefit.

Weigh the savings you reap with a cheaper flight against the cost of getting to an airport that's not as close to home -- if changing airports shaves $100 off of your flight but requires an $80 rideshare bill, it may not be worth inconveniencing yourself. But if you can pull off that trip with a $25 Uber, that's a different story.

Travel has gotten expensive this summer -- so much so that a lot of people risk racking up debt to pay for their vacations. If you plan to fly this summer, do your best to keep your airfare costs to a minimum.