Finding Cheap Flights to Europe from LAX: Your Ultimate Guide
Dreaming of exploring Europe's charming cities and iconic landmarks? Finding affordable flights is often the first hurdle, but it doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little planning and some savvy strategies, you can find cheap flights to Europe from LAX and turn your dream vacation into reality.
1. Be Flexible With Dates and Destinations
- Travel During the Off-Season: Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) typically offer lower airfares. Avoid peak summer months and holiday periods for the best deals.
- Consider Less Popular Airports: Flying into smaller airports near your desired European city can sometimes be more budget-friendly.
- Explore Nearby European Destinations: Consider widening your search to include cities within a reasonable distance from your primary destination. You might uncover a hidden gem with cheaper flights.
2. Utilize Flight Search Engines and Comparison Sites
- Google Flights: A powerful tool allowing you to search for flights across multiple airlines and track price fluctuations.
- Skyscanner: Offers a user-friendly interface for comparing prices across numerous airlines and finding the best deals.
- Momondo: Another excellent comparison site, known for its comprehensive search options and user-friendly filters.
- Kayak: Provides a wide selection of flights, including budget airlines, and offers flexible search options.
3. Sign Up for Airline Newsletters and Price Alerts
- Subscribe to email alerts from airlines: Stay updated on sales and promotions for your desired routes.
- Set Price Alerts: Many search engines offer price alerts that notify you when fares drop for your chosen dates and destinations.
4. Consider Budget Airlines
- Norwegian Air: Known for its affordable fares and transatlantic routes.
- WOW Air: Offers budget-friendly flights to Iceland, a popular gateway to Europe.
- Icelandair: Offers competitive fares with connections through Reykjavik, Iceland.
5. Book in Advance (or Last Minute)
- Early Bird: Booking your flights several months in advance often secures lower prices, especially for popular routes.
- Last-Minute Deals: While less common, sometimes airlines offer discounts on unsold seats close to departure dates.
6. Pack Light and Choose Smart Luggage
- Carry-on Luggage: Save on checked baggage fees by packing light and bringing only essential items.
- Budget-Friendly Luggage: Invest in a durable, lightweight carry-on suitcase or backpack.
7. Take Advantage of Credit Card Rewards
- Miles and Points: Accumulate airline miles or points through credit card rewards programs and use them for your flight bookings.
8. Don't Forget Travel Insurance
- Peace of Mind: While not always cheap, travel insurance offers protection against unforeseen events like flight cancellations, delays, and medical emergencies.
9. Be Flexible with Your Itinerary
- Consider a Roundtrip: Roundtrip flights are often cheaper than one-way tickets, especially for long-haul journeys.
- Open-Jaw Flights: Consider booking a flight with different arrival and departure cities.
10. Be Patient and Persistent
- Search Regularly: Prices for flights fluctuate constantly, so check frequently for the best deals.
- Be Willing to Compromise: Consider alternative dates, destinations, or airlines to find the most affordable options.
With a little research and some flexibility, you can find cheap flights to Europe from LAX and embark on your European adventure without breaking the bank.
