How I Found A Flight From Europe To The US For $400 On Skyscanner

Introduction

Planning a trip can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the best flight deals. With so many airlines, travel agencies, and online booking platforms available, it can be challenging to navigate through the options and find the most affordable fares.

Fortunately, with the help of Skyscanner, a popular travel search engine, you can simplify the process and find incredible flight deals, even across continents. In this article, I will share my experience of how I managed to find a flight from Europe to the US for only $400 using Skyscanner.

Skyscanner is a powerful tool that allows you to compare prices from hundreds of airlines and travel agents all in one place. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-haul international trip, Skyscanner provides valuable features that can help you save money and find the best flights to your desired destination.

By following specific steps and utilizing the features provided by Skyscanner, you can significantly increase your chances of snagging a fantastic deal on your next flight. In the following sections, I will outline the steps I took and the strategies I employed to find an affordable flight from Europe to the US. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a journey to saving money on your next flight, courtesy of Skyscanner!

Step 1: Setting your search parameters

The first step in finding a great flight deal on Skyscanner is to set your search parameters. Start by entering your departure and arrival cities, as well as your preferred dates of travel. Skyscanner allows you to be as specific or flexible as you want with your search.

If you have a specific destination and travel dates in mind, enter them accordingly. However, if you’re open to exploring different destinations or have flexible travel dates, you can use Skyscanner’s “Everywhere” option for the destination and select the “Whole month” or “Cheapest month” options for the travel dates.

The “Everywhere” option is an excellent feature to use when you’re open to multiple destinations and want to find the best deals available. By selecting this option, Skyscanner will provide you with a list of destinations along with their corresponding prices, allowing you to choose the most affordable option.

Additionally, take advantage of the filters provided by Skyscanner to further refine your search. You can filter by airlines, stopovers, and even specific times of departure or arrival. These filters can help you tailor your search according to your preferences and ensure you find the most convenient and cost-effective flights.

Once you have set your search parameters, click on the search button, and let Skyscanner do its magic. It will scan through thousands of flights and present you with the best options based on your criteria.

Remember, the more specific your search parameters, the more targeted the results will be. However, if you’re flexible with your travel plans, don’t be afraid to explore different options and destinations. You never know what hidden gems you might discover!

Step 2: Using the “Everywhere” option

One of the most powerful features of Skyscanner is the “Everywhere” option. This feature allows you to search for flights to multiple destinations simultaneously, giving you the freedom to explore different options and find the best deals.

To use the “Everywhere” option, simply select it as your destination when setting your search parameters. You can either leave the “To” field blank and select “Everywhere” from the drop-down menu, or you can enter a specific departure city and choose “Everywhere” as your destination.

Once you’ve chosen the “Everywhere” option, Skyscanner will generate a list of destinations along with their corresponding prices. This list will give you a broad overview of where you can go and how much it will cost you.

What makes the “Everywhere” option even more powerful is Skyscanner’s ability to show you the cheapest month or the cheapest day to fly to each destination. This feature is particularly useful for travelers with flexible schedules, as it allows you to identify the most affordable time to visit a specific location.

When using the “Everywhere” option, keep an open mind and be willing to explore new places. You might uncover hidden gem destinations that you hadn’t considered before. It’s also worth considering factors such as seasonality, local events, and attractions when selecting your destination.

Once you’ve found the destination that catches your interest, click on it to view the available flights. Skyscanner will provide you with a comprehensive list of flight options, allowing you to compare prices, airlines, and travel durations.

Remember to check for any additional fees or baggage restrictions that may impact the overall cost of your flight. Consider the total value you’re getting for the price, including factors like airline reputation, flight times, and layover durations.

Using the “Everywhere” option on Skyscanner can open up a world of possibilities and help you score incredible flight deals. So, don’t be afraid to let your wanderlust guide you and explore new destinations with this powerful tool!

Step 3: Flexibility with travel dates

When it comes to finding the best flight deals, having flexibility with your travel dates can make a significant difference. Skyscanner offers several options to help you take advantage of price variations based on different travel dates.

One way to maximize your chances of finding affordable flights is to utilize Skyscanner’s “Whole month” or “Cheapest month” feature. This feature allows you to see the prices for flights across an entire month or identify the cheapest month to visit a specific destination.

By selecting the “Whole month” option, Skyscanner will display a calendar showing the prices for each day of the month. This allows you to easily compare prices and choose the most cost-effective travel dates.

If you have the flexibility to travel during different months, the “Cheapest month” option can be incredibly beneficial. Skyscanner will scan through various months and provide you with a breakdown of the cheapest month to travel to your desired destination.

Additionally, Skyscanner offers a “Flexible” search option where you can select a specific duration or range of travel dates. This feature is perfect for travelers who have a specific travel window but can adjust their departure or return dates by a few days to take advantage of better prices.

Don’t limit yourself to traditional travel seasons and popular holidays. Sometimes, flying on less crowded or off-peak days can result in significant savings. By being open to travel during weekdays or less popular times, you may find better flight deals and avoid the crowds.

Furthermore, consider the length of your trip. Sometimes, extending or shortening your stay by a day or two can result in cheaper flights. Play around with different trip durations and see how it affects the overall price.

By having flexibility with your travel dates, you can increase your chances of finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. So, be open to adjusting your itinerary and explore various date options to save money on your next trip.

Step 4: Utilizing price alerts

Skyscanner offers a convenient feature called “Price alerts,” which allows you to receive notifications when the price of a specific flight or route changes. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who are not quite ready to book their flights but want to keep an eye on price fluctuations.

To set up a price alert, simply search for your desired flight or route on Skyscanner and then click on the “Get Price Alerts” button. You’ll be prompted to enter your email address, and Skyscanner will send you notifications whenever there is a change in price.

Price alerts are beneficial in several ways. They allow you to track the fluctuations in flight prices, so you can make an informed decision about when to book your flight. You can set up alerts for multiple routes or flights, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any potential deals.

Additionally, price alerts give you the opportunity to take advantage of flash sales or limited-time offers. When airlines or travel agencies have promotions or discounts, you’ll be among the first to know, thanks to the price alert notifications.

It’s essential to set your price alert preferences wisely. Consider the budget you have in mind for your flight and set the threshold accordingly. If the price falls below your desired budget, you’ll receive a notification, allowing you to book the flight at the best possible price.

Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate frequently, so it’s important to act quickly when you receive a price alert. Popular routes or flights with limited availability can sell out quickly, so being prompt in booking is crucial.

Price alerts are a powerful tool for staying updated on flight prices and taking advantage of potential savings. By utilizing this feature on Skyscanner, you can stay informed and book your flights at the most opportune moments, ultimately saving you money on your travel expenses.

Step 5: Checking for hidden fares

When searching for flights on Skyscanner, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be hidden fares available. Hidden fares are flights that are not directly advertised or displayed in the initial search results but can offer significant savings.

To uncover hidden fares on Skyscanner, there are a few strategies you can employ:

1. Check alternative airports: Instead of searching only for flights to or from the main airports, consider checking flights to or from nearby airports. Sometimes, flying into or out of a smaller or less popular airport can result in lower fares.
2. Utilize the “Nearby airports” option: When setting your search parameters on Skyscanner, don’t forget to select the “Nearby airports” option. This will broaden your search to include flights from nearby airports, increasing your chances of finding hidden fare options.
3. Try different search combinations: Experiment with different combinations of departure and arrival cities to uncover potential hidden fares. For example, if your desired destination is New York City, try searching for flights to nearby cities such as Philadelphia or Boston, and then look for separate transportation options to your final destination.
4. Consider multi-leg flights: Sometimes, booking multiple one-way flights or building a multi-leg itinerary can lead to hidden fare savings. By piecing together flights from different airlines or finding stopover options, you may find lower overall fares.

By being open to exploring alternative airports, considering nearby airports, trying different search combinations, and considering multi-leg flights, you can increase your chances of finding hidden fare options on Skyscanner.

Remember to carefully review the details and terms of hidden fares, including any additional fees or restrictions that may apply. While hidden fares can provide excellent savings, it’s essential to ensure that they align with your travel preferences and requirements.

Uncovering hidden fares requires a bit of patience and creativity, but the potential savings are well worth the effort. So, don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper and explore all your options when searching for flights on Skyscanner.

Step 6: Comparing different airlines

When searching for flights on Skyscanner, it’s crucial to compare different airlines to find the best deals and value for your money. Each airline has its own pricing, baggage policies, and in-flight amenities, so it’s important to consider these factors before making your final decision.

Here are some tips for effectively comparing different airlines on Skyscanner:

1. Consider the reputation and reliability of the airline. Research customer reviews, on-time performance, and safety records to ensure you’re choosing a reputable airline for your journey.
2. Look beyond the upfront ticket price. While it’s essential to find affordable fares, take into account additional fees, such as baggage charges, seat selection fees, and in-flight meal costs. A seemingly cheap fare can quickly add up with these extra expenses.
3. Check the baggage policy of each airline. Some airlines may have more generous baggage allowances or lower fees for checked bags, which can make a significant difference in the overall cost, especially if you’re traveling with bulky or heavy luggage.
4. Consider the flight duration and layover times. While a longer layover might save you some money, it’s important to factor in the inconvenience and additional time spent at airports. Sometimes, paying a bit more for a shorter travel time or more convenient layover can be worth the investment.
5. Take into account in-flight amenities and services. Some airlines offer more comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, or complimentary meals, which can enhance your overall travel experience. Compare the amenities offered by different airlines to determine which one aligns with your preferences.
6. Be open to traveling with budget airlines. Budget airlines often offer lower fares but may have stricter baggage policies or additional fees. However, if you’re traveling with minimal luggage and can forego certain amenities, budget airlines can provide excellent value for your money.

By comparing different airlines on Skyscanner, you can find the best combination of price, convenience, and in-flight experience for your journey. Take your time to research and consider the various factors mentioned above, and make an informed decision based on your priorities and travel preferences.

Conclusion

Finding affordable flights can be a daunting task, but with Skyscanner as your travel companion, it becomes much easier and enjoyable. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking advantage of the features provided by Skyscanner, you can uncover incredible flight deals and save money on your next trip.

Setting your search parameters, using the “Everywhere” option, and being flexible with your travel dates are essential strategies to find the best flights. By exploring alternative airports, checking for hidden fares, and comparing different airlines, you can further increase your chances of getting great deals.

Remember to utilize the price alert feature to stay informed about price fluctuations and take advantage of flash sales. And don’t forget to consider additional fees, baggage policies, in-flight amenities, and overall value when comparing airlines.

In the end, finding an affordable flight is not just about saving money; it’s about making the most out of your travel experience. By being smart and strategic in your approach, you can allocate your budget to other aspects of your trip, such as accommodations, activities, and exploration.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip, don’t stress about finding affordable flights. Trust Skyscanner to help you navigate through the options and discover the best deals. With a combination of flexibility, thorough research, and a little bit of luck, you’ll be jetting off to your dream destination at an unbeatable price.

Happy travels!