Finding cheap flights isn't hard if you use well-known search engines like Skyscanner. This company, founded in 2003, is now a global leader in the sector.

With more than 1,200 partners, Skyscanner has the ability to show you the lowest available fares in seconds using advanced technology.

But beyond what the platform shows, you can apply certain tricks to further improve your results. In this post, we list some of them—after explaining what Skyscanner is, how it works, and its advantages.

Cheap Flights on Skyscanner: Tricks to Save on Your Next Trip

What Is Skyscanner and How Does It Work?

It is an online search engine that helps you find offers on flights, lodging, and car rentals without having to browse multiple sites.

How Does Skyscanner Work?

The website searches in real time across different platforms and shows the most convenient results.

Here’s what its algorithm essentially does:
It visits airline websites, low-cost carriers, and travel agencies. Then it collects and compares prices from different sources for specific dates, full months, or even an entire year. This way, it finds the cheapest option and redirects you to the selected provider.

Additionally, it offers advanced filters so you can customize your search and find cheap flights. For example: layovers, schedules, duration, or nearby airports.

Why Use Skyscanner to Search for Cheap Flights?

First of all, Skyscanner is free and one of the top options to buy cheap plane tickets due to its reputation.

Moreover, travelers prefer it for the following reasons:

• Flexible search. You don't need to pick an exact destination or date. You can explore flights to “anywhere” or search options for an entire country.

• Quick and simple comparisons. Skyscanner puts all the airline and agency fares on a single screen, saving you time.

• Price view in calendar mode. You can see which days are the cheapest to fly using a chart for a full month—or even the entire year.

• Includes low-cost airlines. Thanks to its partnerships, you can find cheap flights and deals from low-cost airlines like Viva Aerobus.

• Price alerts. Like other metasearch engines, you can turn on notifications and get alerts when a flight you're watching increases or drops in price.

Note that Skyscanner doesn’t charge booking fees, and there are no hidden commissions at checkout. Generally, the price shown on the website is the final price.

How to Find the Best Deals on Skyscanner: Top Tricks

Search engines like Skyscanner or Google Flights are designed to show you attractive results. However, you can find even better deals for your flights by applying the following tips:

1. Book in Advance—but Don’t Overdo It

The best prices aren’t always found when you book too early. Generally, for international trips, try booking 3 to 6 months in advance.

For domestic flights, it’s ideal to book 1 to 3 months in advance.

2. Search Flights Without a Specific Date

Sometimes, the trick isn't choosing a destination but the right time to travel.

Instead of selecting an exact date, choose “Flexible Dates.” Skyscanner will show you the cheapest months to travel.

3. Compare One-Way Flights

Round-trip tickets are often cheaper for international flights. But that’s not always the case.

Try looking up one-way tickets with different airlines, dates, and schedules—you might find cheaper combinations. Sometimes, unexpected combos offer better prices.

4. Try Nearby Airports

When searching for cheap flights on Skyscanner, check the box “Add nearby airports” to expand your options.

Some cities have secondary airports where prices are lower. Flying from or to a different terminal could save you money, even if it means a small extra trip.

Just compare prices and see if the savings justify the transfer.

5. Take Advantage of Layovers

Non-stop flights are more convenient, but they’re also more expensive. If you want to pay less for your ticket, consider taking a short layover.

Luckily, Skyscanner lets you choose flights with layovers in its filters. Just check the box and see if the price difference is worth it.

6. Check the Calendar

You can also find out which days of the month are cheapest to travel. Simply check the calendar and graph provided by the platform to spot the best dates.

7. Take Advantage of Big Sale Events

There are special times of the year when flights are significantly discounted—like Hot Sale or Cyber Monday.

During these events, airlines and travel agencies launch unbeatable promotions. You just need to stay alert and book before they sell out.

8. Sort Results by Price

By default, the platform shows the result labeled as “Best Option,” but this isn’t always the cheapest. To find the lowest price fast, switch the sort option to “Cheapest first.”

This is a quick way to spot the most affordable fare at the time.

9. Explore Destinations Without Restrictions

If you know your dates but not the destination, use the “Everywhere” option to discover the cheapest flights from your location.

10. Set Price Alerts

Once you’ve chosen the destination and travel dates, let Skyscanner do the work by setting a price alert.

Click the alert button and a new tab will open where you enter your email and the updates you want. When prices go up or down, you’ll get notified by email.

Remember: Planning is key to saving on your trip. Tools like Google Travel can help you build an itinerary, save flights of interest, and manage accommodations.

Your Trips Are Easier When You Pay with DolarCard

Now traveling is easier—no more worrying about bad exchange rates or hidden fees. Why? Because DolarApp gives you a card you can use anywhere in the world.

We’re talking about DolarCard, a card that runs on digital dollars and helps you manage your budget. Whether you’re paying for flights, hotels, restaurants, or any travel expense, it’s a smart and convenient option.

Request it through the app and forget about exchange rate hassles and banking fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe to Book Flights with Skyscanner?

Yes, the platform is safe and only displays options from reliable airlines and agencies. It also shows transparent prices with no hidden fees, so you can choose the best deal confidently.

Can I Book Hotels with Skyscanner?

Yes, Skyscanner doesn’t just compare flights—it also helps you find the best hotel deals. You can explore offers across different platforms and choose the perfect place to stay based on your budget and preferences.

Is the Flight Booked Through Skyscanner?

No, Skyscanner Flights is a price comparison tool, not a travel agency. The site shows you the best available deals, and when you select a flight, it redirects you to the airline or travel agency to complete the booking.