Planning an international internship is exciting, but booking flights can often feel overwhelming. Airfare prices fluctuate constantly, and without the right strategy, you could end up paying much more than necessary. The good news: with some planning, flexibility, and the right tools, you can save hundreds on your flight.
This guide covers practical tips on how to find cheap international flights for interns, students, and young professionals, from the best websites to use, to when to book, and how to avoid extra fees.
1. Use Flight Search Engines to Compare Prices.
The first step to finding cheap flights is to compare prices across multiple airlines and booking platforms. Popular flight comparison websites include:
- Skyscanner
- Momondo
- Kayak
- Expedia
- Dohop
- FlightConnections (for exploring alternative routes)
These platforms show a wide range of fares, routes, and dates, helping you find the cheapest options. Some, like Skyscanner, allow you to search by “cheapest month,” while others, like Momondo, highlight flexible date ranges for better savings.
Pro tip: Sometimes flying into a nearby hub (e.g., Dublin instead of London) and booking a budget airline for the final leg can significantly reduce costs.
2. Book Flights at the Right Time.
Airfare prices change depending on when you book. Research shows that:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often the cheapest days to book flights, as airlines release fare sales midweek.
- Avoid booking on weekends when demand is higher.
- The sweet spot for international flights is usually 2–3 months before departure (though this varies by region).
To stay ahead of deals:
- Sign up for airline newsletters and fare alerts.
- Follow airlines and travel deal accounts on social media.
- Check resources like The Flight Deal or travel blogs, which scour the web for great deals on your behalf!
3. Choose the Best Days and Times to Fly.
Just like booking, the day you fly matters:
- Midweek flights (Tuesday or Wednesday) tend to be cheaper than weekends.
- Flying very early in the morning or late at night can save money.
- Be flexible - if you can adjust your dates by a few days, you’ll likely find better deals.
Budget airlines may use smaller airports located outside major cities. While this can be less convenient, it’s often much cheaper. For interns, this can be a smart trade-off, especially if your program offers airport pick-up services.
4. Sign Up for Frequent Flyer Programs.
Even if you’re only traveling once for your internship, signing up for a frequent flyer program is worth it. Most airlines are part of major alliances such as:
- Oneworld
- Star Alliance
- SkyTeam
This means you can earn and use miles across multiple carriers. While miles may not reduce your upfront cost, they can lead to discounts, upgrades, and perks such as priority boarding or lounge access in the future.
5. Avoid Hidden Fees and Extra Costs.
Budget airlines often appear cheaper upfront, but add costs for extras like seat selection, baggage, or in-flight services. To keep your flight truly affordable:
- Pack smart: Stick to one checked bag and a carry-on. Overpacking can result in expensive baggage fees.
- Bring essentials strategically: Wear heavier items like boots or coats on the plane. Buy bulky items like toiletries once you arrive.
- Skip seat selection fees: Arrive early at the airport to choose a seat for free instead of paying extra at booking.
6. Don’t Wait Too Long.
When you find a great deal that fits your schedule, book it. Flight prices change quickly, and waiting even a few hours could mean missing out.
Finding cheap international flights for your internship abroad is all about research, timing, and flexibility. By using flight comparison tools, booking on the right days, being flexible with travel dates, joining frequent flyer programs, and avoiding hidden fees, you can save a significant amount of money on your trip.
With these strategies, you’ll be able to focus less on airfare stress and more on the adventure that awaits.
