If you feel like finding a cheap flight is as likely as spotting a unicorn, you’re not alone. Knowing how to secure those flights on sale does require some insider tips and tricks… and we’ve got them in this quick Q&A.

1. How does a flight sale work?

There are two dates to remember:

• Sale dates: when you need to book and pay.
• Travel dates: when you can actually fly on the discounted fare.

So a sale running from 25–28 August could include flights in September, November or even February next year.

Search outside the airline’s qualifying dates and you may see the normal fare. The sale hasn’t vanished. Your dates just aren’t part of it.

2. Why isn’t my flight cheaper during the sale?

Your route or dates may not qualify, you may be travelling during a blackout period or the cheapest sale seats may already be gone.

Check the airline details above and try shifting your dates slightly.

3. Do flight sale fares apply every day?

No. Some sales cover several months, while others only apply to a few selected departure dates.

That’s why checking the travel period matters just as much as checking the sale dates.

4. Are the advertised prices guaranteed?

Advertised “from” prices are based on specific routes, dates and available seats. Other eligible dates may cost more.

Flight prices can also change as cheaper fare levels sell out.

5. What is the best way to get cheap flights?

If you’re hunting for cheap flights, flexibility gives you the best shot. Search around the advertised dates, compare nearby departure days and book when you find a price that works.

Content by Travelstart.

For more on travel, visit Get It Magazine.