How to Find Cheap Flights as a Student

Flights don't have to eat your budget. With the right timing and tools, you can regularly find return flights to Europe for under £50. Here's how.

1. Be flexible with dates

This is the single biggest money-saver. Flying midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) is almost always cheaper than weekends. Use Google Flights' "flexible dates" view to compare prices across an entire month at a glance.

2. Book 4–8 weeks ahead

For short-haul European flights, the sweet spot is usually 4–8 weeks before departure. Too early and prices haven't dropped yet. Too late and you're paying a premium. Set a price alert on Skyscanner or Google Flights and wait for the dip.

3. Use the right tools

• Skyscanner — best for comparing across all airlines. Use the "Everywhere" search to find the cheapest destination from your airport.
• Google Flights — great date grid view and price tracking. Shows whether current prices are low, typical, or high.
• Ryanair & easyJet apps — sometimes have app-only deals. Worth checking directly after finding a route on Skyscanner.
• Jack's Flight Club — free tier sends you error fares and deals from UK airports. The paid version (£40/year) is worth it if you travel 2+ times a year.

4. Consider nearby airports

Flying into Girona instead of Barcelona, or Beauvais instead of Paris, can save £20–40. Budget airlines often use secondary airports — the bus transfer is usually cheap and straightforward.

5. Travel hand-luggage only

Ryanair and easyJet charge £20–40+ for checked bags. Learn to pack light — a 40L cabin backpack fits everything you need for a week. Check our packing list for exactly what to bring.

6. Avoid school holidays

Prices spike during half-term, Easter, and summer holidays. If your uni schedule allows it, travel in early September, late October, or January for the best deals.