✈️ Flight Booking Cheat Sheet (2025 Edition)

Booking flights doesn’t have to be stressful. Prices change by the hour, “deals” vanish, and hidden fees add up fast. Use this quick-reference cheat sheet to book smarter, save money, and travel with confidence in 2025.

🛠 Step 1: Start Broad

Search with Google Flights → trends + cheapest days.
Cross-check: Booking.com (packages), Trip.com (Asia), Kiwi (creative routes), Expedia/CheapOair (packages), Tripadvisor (reviews).
👉 Always compare 2–3 sites before booking.

💳 Step 2: Make Your Card Work

Check card travel portals (points + discounts).
Hidden perks: trip delay, baggage, cancellation cover.
Subscribe to ClarkDeals or The Daily Drop for flash sales.

🧳 Step 3: Baggage Strategy

Carry-on = cheaper, faster, no lost bags.
Checked = better for long/gear trips.
👉 Always check baggage fees before paying.

🎯 Step 4: Seat Hacks

Short flights → take the free seat.
Long hauls → aisle (freedom) / window (sleep).
Use SeatGuru to avoid bad rows.

🛫 Step 5: Airline Choice

Budget carriers = cheap but extras add up.
Full-service = baggage, meals, smoother connections.
👉 Choose price vs. comfort based on trip length.

🚖 Step 6: Arrival Plan

Book Welcome Pickups for flat-rate, stress-free airport transfers.

🕒 Step 7: Timing Rules

Domestic → 1–3 months ahead.
International → 2–6 months.
Holidays/peak season → book early.
Tues/Wed departures → usually cheapest.
Set Google Flights alerts.

🧾 Step 8: Insurance

Covers delays, cancellations, lost bags, emergencies.
Compare policies on VisitorsCoverage.

✅ Keep this page bookmarked or saved on your phone — a quick companion whenever you’re booking your next trip.