For many travelers, airfare feels like the biggest barrier to getting out and seeing the world. But here’s the truth: with the right tools, timing, and insider tricks, you can still score round-trip or one-way flights for under $200 in 2025.
If you’re dreaming of budget-friendly escapes, this guide will walk you through the exact strategies to find those elusive cheap flights — and yes, they still exist!
1. Be Flexible With Your Dates
The #1 rule of cheap travel is flexibility. Prices fluctuate daily, and even moving your flight by a day or two can slash your fare by 30–50%.
Tip: Use TravelUp’s flexible search calendar to scan for the cheapest days in a month.
Avoid Fridays and Sundays — midweek flights (Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday) are usually cheapest.
2. Fly Into Alternative Airports
Big-name hubs often cost more, but nearby airports can save you hundreds.
Example: Instead of flying into Los Angeles (LAX), check Long Beach (LGB) or Ontario (ONT).
Instead of New York (JFK), try Newark (EWR) or even Philadelphia (PHL).
TravelUp allows you to compare nearby airports automatically, making it easy to spot savings.
3. Book Early — But Not Too Early
In 2025, airfare trends show the sweet spot for cheap flights is usually 2–4 months before departure for domestic routes, and 4–6 months for international trips.
Booking too late = higher fares.
Booking too early = airlines haven’t released discount seats yet.
Set a reminder and grab tickets when the curve dips.
4. Use Budget Airlines Wisely
Low-cost carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and Ryanair (for Europe) still offer sub-$200 flights — even round-trip. The catch? Fees.
Bring only a small backpack if possible.
Pack snacks instead of buying onboard.
Read the fine print before booking.
When booked smartly, budget airlines are one of the easiest ways to stay under $200.
5. Leverage TravelUp’s Flight Deals
Here’s where it gets fun: many OTAs (online travel agencies) mark up prices, but TravelUp often runs exclusive discounts and flash sales that undercut the airline’s direct website.
Use their “Special Offers” tab for surprise deals.
Look for promo codes around holidays and travel seasons.
Pair with flexible search to find hidden bargains.
👉 Check TravelUp’s current flight deals here
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https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-101363505-15591852?sid=0w
6. Travel Light, Save Big
Checked bag fees can instantly destroy your $200 goal.
Stick to a carry-on + personal item.
Buy a lightweight backpack that fits budget airline requirements.
Roll clothes instead of folding to maximize space.
The less you bring, the more you save — simple as that.
7. Watch for Error Fares in 2025
Every year, airlines accidentally release “error fares” — insanely cheap tickets like $150 round-trip to Europe.
Subscribe to flight deal newsletters.
Join online forums like Flyertalk or travel Facebook groups.
When you see one, book immediately before it’s gone.
8. Use Points + Cash Combos
Even if you don’t have a ton of points, many OTAs (including TravelUp) let you use points + partial cash to slash your ticket price under $200.
Example: $300 flight – apply 10,000 points ($100) = $200 out of pocket.
9. Fly During Off-Peak Seasons
Forget peak summer (June–August) and winter holidays. Instead, fly in:
Late January – early March
Mid-September – early November
After Thanksgiving until mid-December
These “shoulder seasons” almost always offer flights under $200.
10. Be Open to Spontaneity
If you’re truly chasing the lowest fares, let the price decide where you go.
Search TravelUp’s “Anywhere” or “Cheapest Destinations” filters.
You might discover a $179 round-trip to Mexico or $150 to Florida.
Think of it as an adventure — not a limitation.
Final Thoughts
Finding flights under $200 in 2025 is still absolutely possible — but it requires flexibility, strategy, and the right tools. With TravelUp’s deals and a few of these insider tricks, you’ll be jetting off without draining your wallet.
👉 Start searching cheap 2025 flights now on TravelUp
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https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-101363505-15591852?sid=0w
Happy (frugal) flying! ✈️✨
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