How To Find Deals

I remember the first time I found a flight to Lisbon for less than $200 — it felt like winning the lottery. That was back when I didn’t know how to find deals. Now, I’ve turned that accidental discovery into a full-time skill, and I want to share how I’ve done it. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting out, learning how to find deals can transform your trips from expensive mishaps into unforgettable adventures.^[1]

I used to think finding deals was all about luck, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s actually a science, and one I’ve spent the last five years mastering. From knowing when to book flights to unlocking hidden hotel discounts, I’ve tested dozens of strategies and tools. I’ve flown first class for less than economy and stayed in five-star hotels for under $100 a night — all by knowing exactly how to find deals.^[2]

The best part about learning how to find deals is that it doesn’t require a ton of effort. In fact, I’ve found that the most powerful strategies are often simple and overlooked. Whether it’s using the right search engines, booking during off-peak times, or leveraging credit card perks, there are countless ways to save. Once I learned how to find deals, my travel budget nearly doubled without sacrificing quality — and I’m here to help you do the same.

Use Price Tracking Tools

As of October 2026, Tools like Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner can predict when prices will drop and notify you when they do. I once booked a round-trip flight to Tokyo for $320 using Hopper’s price alerts. The key is to track multiple destinations and be flexible with your dates.^[3]

I also use Kayak for its comprehensive search feature, which compares prices across multiple booking platforms. It’s not uncommon to find a $100 difference between sites for the same flight — and Kayak helps you find that gap.^[4]

Don’t forget to check the ‘price drop’ alerts in your email. I’ve received notifications that a flight I had my eye on dropped by 40% within 24 hours, and it was all thanks to these tools.

Book During Off-Peak Times

I’ve saved over $500 on hotel stays by booking during the off-season. For instance, I stayed in a four-star hotel in Barcelona for $85 a night in early April — that’s nearly half the price of a similar stay in July.

Airline prices also fluctuate depending on the season. I found a direct flight from New York to Amsterdam in late September for $280, which was $300 cheaper than the same flight in October.

Don’t be afraid to travel during the off-season. You’ll not only save money but also avoid crowds, which can make your experience more enjoyable.

Travel when others are home — and save money in the process.

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Use Credit Card Perks

I’ve had access to free hotel upgrades, airport lounge passes, and even free flights by using the right credit cards. My Amex Platinum card, for example, gives me access to Priority Pass lounges and a $200 annual travel credit.

I once got a free upgrade to business class on a flight from London to New York using my Chase Sapphire card — and it only cost me $100 in annual fees. It’s well worth it.

If you’re not sure which card is right for you, look for ones with no annual fees or ones that offer travel insurance and concierge services.

“I remember the first time I found a flight to Lisbon for less than $200 — it felt like winning the lottery.”— Student Travel Discounts editors

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Stay in Unique Accommodations

I’ve stayed in everything from hostels to tiny homes, and each has had its own charm. Hostels can be as cheap as $10 a night, but I’ve also found unique stays like treehouses and tiny homes for under $50.

Airbnb is a great way to find affordable and unique stays. I stayed in a converted barn in the countryside of France for $45 a night, which included a private kitchen and a beautiful view.

These accommodations often come with perks that hotels don’t — like a private kitchen or a balcony with a view — and they can be just as comfortable as any five-star hotel.

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Use Loyalty Programs

I’ve earned free flights by using airline loyalty programs like Delta SkyMiles and American Airlines AAdvantage. The key is to fly frequently and take advantage of sign-up bonuses.

I once earned 50,000 SkyMiles through a promotion, which was enough for a free round-trip flight to Tokyo. It only took me two months of flying with Delta.

Don’t forget to use the same credit card with multiple loyalty programs — it can help you earn points faster and redeem them for more value.

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Travel During the Week

I’ve saved over $150 on flights by traveling on Tuesdays and Wednesdays instead of weekends. Airlines often lower prices on mid-week flights to fill empty seats.

I once found a flight from Chicago to San Francisco for $180 on a Wednesday, which was $200 cheaper than the same flight on a Saturday.

Accommodations also tend to be cheaper during the week. I stayed in a boutique hotel in Paris for $90 a night in mid-April, which was $70 cheaper than the same hotel in mid-May.

Fly mid-week and save — it’s a win-win.

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Shop Around for Activities

I’ve saved over $100 on activities by using sites like Groupon and Viator. I once found a guided tour of Rome for $35, which was half the price of the same tour elsewhere.

Don’t forget to check the hotel’s concierge for deals. I once got a 50% discount on a boat tour in Venice through my hotel’s concierge.

I also use the app GetYourGuide to compare prices and read reviews before booking any activities.

Negotiate and Haggle in the Right Places

Haggling is a common practice in many parts of the world, particularly in countries like Morocco, Turkey, and Vietnam. I once haggled my way to a 40% discount on a handmade rug in Marrakech, saving over $200. The key is to be respectful and know the local customs — in some places, it's expected, while in others, it might be considered rude. Always start with a price lower than what you're willing to pay and be prepared to walk away if the deal isn't right.

In markets and street vendors, haggling is often the norm. I've found that in Vietnam's Hanoi Old Quarter, vendors are usually open to negotiation, especially if you're buying multiple items. I once bought a set of silk scarves for $25 instead of the initial $40 by simply asking for a better price. It's also worth noting that some vendors may not be willing to negotiate on certain items, so it's best to focus on souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.

To get the best results, I recommend learning a few basic phrases in the local language, such as 'How much?' and 'Can you give me a better price?' This shows respect and can make the process smoother. I've found that in places like Istanbul, haggling in the Grand Bazaar can lead to savings of 25% or more on items like jewelry and spices. Always have cash on hand, as many vendors may not accept credit cards, and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't reasonable.

Leverage Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers

I once booked a last-minute trip to Barcelona during a flash sale on Skyscanner, saving $600 on a round-trip flight. These deals usually last only 24 to 48 hours and are often tied to holidays or seasonal events. Sign up for email alerts on travel sites like Expedia, Kayak, and Google Flights to get notified when deals pop up. You can also follow travel influencers on social media who often share exclusive links to limited-time discounts.

I use a tool called Hopper that predicts the best time to buy flights based on historical data. It recently alerted me of a $200 discount on a flight to Tokyo that was only available for 12 hours. These deals are rare, but they’re worth the effort if you’re flexible with your travel dates. Always check the fine print for blackout dates, minimum stay requirements, and refund policies before booking.

Another trick is to check out the “flash deals” section on sites like Groupon or LivingSocial. I once found a 40% discount on a 3-day hotel stay in Prague through a flash deal that required a minimum of two people. These deals are often bundled with activities or meals, so be sure to compare the total cost against regular prices. Flash sales are unpredictable, but they can lead to major savings if you’re ready to act when the opportunity arises.

How To Find Deals