Finding an affordable flight to Canada can save you hundreds of dollars on travel expenses. Whether you’re visiting, moving, or studying in Canada, here are expert tips to book the cheapest flights possible.
1. Book in Advance
✔ The best time to book international flights is 2-6 months before departure
✔ Last-minute tickets tend to be more expensive, so plan ahead
2. Use Flight Comparison Websites
Compare fares across different airlines and booking platforms using:
✔ Google Flights (www.google.com/flights)
✔ Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.com)
✔ Kayak (www.kayak.com)
✔ Momondo (www.momondo.com)
3. Set Fare Alerts
✔ Use price alert tools on Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak
✔ Get notified when flight prices drop
4. Be Flexible With Travel Dates
✔ Avoid flying on weekends and holidays (Tuesday and Wednesday flights are usually cheaper)
✔ Use Google Flights’ “Date Grid” or “Price Graph” to find the cheapest days
5. Fly During Off-Peak Seasons
✔ High season: June–August & December (flights are expensive)
✔ Low season: January–March & September–November (cheaper fares)
6. Consider Nearby Airports
✔ Flying into smaller airports can be cheaper
✔ Example: Instead of Toronto Pearson (YYZ), try Hamilton (YHM) or Buffalo (BUF)
7. Look for Budget Airlines
✔ Consider low-cost carriers like:
- WestJet (Canada-based)
- Air Transat (Europe & Caribbean)
- Flair Airlines (Domestic & US routes)
- Swoop (Ultra-low-cost carrier)
8. Use Airline Miles & Credit Card Points
✔ Earn rewards through frequent flyer programs (Aeroplan, Avios, SkyMiles, etc.)
✔ Travel credit cards offer free flights and discounts
9. Book Connecting Flights Instead of Direct
✔ Non-stop flights are usually more expensive
✔ Consider layovers in the US or Europe to get lower fares
10. Check for Student & Group Discounts
✔ StudentUniverse and ISIC offer special fares for students
✔ Some airlines offer group travel discounts for families and friends
11. Use a VPN to Check Prices
✔ Flight prices may vary based on your location
✔ Try searching from different countries using a VPN to get better deals