How To Get Cheap Flights To South America: A Budget Traveler's Guide To Savings [Updated On 2024]

To get cheap flights to South America, compare prices on sites like Skyscanner and Google Flights. Look for fares starting at $89. Key destinations include Bogotá and Cartagena in Colombia. Airlines like GOL, Avianca, Copa Airlines, and LATAM Airlines offer budget options. Stay flexible with travel dates and book early to find the best deals.

Next, subscribe to airline newsletters. These often provide exclusive offers and flash sales that can result in lower prices. Additionally, consider nearby airports. Flying into or out of alternative airports can sometimes offer cheaper flight options.

Utilize fare alerts from travel sites. These notifications keep you informed about price drops for specific routes. Finally, be open to layovers. While direct flights are convenient, flights with one or more stops can significantly reduce costs.

Having explored these strategies to get cheap flights to South America, you are now equipped with practical tips for budget travel. Next, we will delve into savvy ways to save on accommodations and experiences during your South American adventure.

Table of Contents

What Are the Best Times to Book Cheap Flights to South America?

The best times to book cheap flights to South America are typically three months in advance, during specific seasons such as low season or shoulder season, and on weekdays rather than weekends.

Three Months in Advance
Low Season
Shoulder Season
Weekdays vs. Weekends
Use of Price Alerts

To better understand these strategies for booking cheap flights, let’s delve into each aspect.

Three Months in Advance: Booking flights to South America about three months ahead of your desired travel dates often yields the best deals. Research from the Airlines Reporting Corporation shows that prices can be significantly lower when purchased 90 days in advance. For instance, travelers who booked New York to Rio de Janeiro flights around this time could save up to 20% compared to last-minute bookings.
Low Season: Traveling during the low season, which generally falls between March and June and September and October, can provide cheaper flight options. Demand drops during these months, leading airlines to reduce ticket prices. For example, flights to Argentina in September can often be found for half the price of peak summer costs.
Shoulder Season: The shoulder season occurs just before or after the high season, typically from late November to December and late February to March. During this time, you can find a balance between favorable weather and lower rates. A 2021 study by Hopper found that travelers flying to Peru in the shoulder months may save around 30% compared to peak travel times.
Weekdays vs. Weekends: Booking flights on weekdays, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often results in better prices. A 2018 study by CheapAir.com noted that Tuesday is typically the best day to purchase airline tickets. This can lead to price differences of up to 15% compared to weekend bookings.
Use of Price Alerts: Setting price alerts on travel websites can be an effective strategy to secure cheap flights. These alerts notify users when prices drop for specific routes. According to a report by Skyscanner, travelers using price alerts are 30% more likely to get a good deal, enabling them to act quickly when prices change.

Overall, utilizing these strategies can significantly enhance your chances of finding affordable flights to South America.

What Websites and Apps Are Essential for Finding Cheap Flights to South America?

To find cheap flights to South America, several essential websites and apps can help travelers secure the best deals.

Skyscanner
Google Flights
Kayak
Momondo
Hopper
Airfarewatchdog
Skiplagged
CheapOair

These platforms serve a wide range of travelers and provide various features. Some focus on comprehensive price comparisons, while others offer advanced booking options to find lower fares.

The next section will provide detailed explanations for each essential resource to help identify the best options for affordable travel to South America.

Skyscanner: Skyscanner is a popular flight comparison website and app. It allows users to search for flights across multiple airlines and travel agencies. Skyscanner’s flexible search feature lets travelers view prices for whole months, identifying the cheapest days to fly. According to a study by Which?, Skyscanner is rated highly for finding low-cost options.
Google Flights: Google Flights is a powerful tool that offers a straightforward interface and features like price tracking. Users can also explore destinations based on budget. A 2021 analysis by Airfarewatchdog highlighted that Google Flights provides accurate pricing information and often uncovers deals that other platforms miss.
Kayak: Kayak aggregates flight information from various sources. It offers price predictions, showing whether prices are expected to rise or fall. Travelers can utilize Kayak’s “Explore” feature to find destinations within their price range. A survey conducted by SmarterTravel in 2022 noted that Kayak is favored for its user-friendly interface.
Momondo: Momondo excels in transparency, showing price differences for various flight options and including budget airlines. Its “Flight Insight” feature gives users insights on the best times to fly. A report by the Wall Street Journal (2020) indicated that Momondo often finds lower fares compared to mainstream travel sites.
Hopper: Hopper uses predictive technology to analyze flight pricing data. It suggests the best times to book flights and even offers price alerts. According to Hopper’s internal data, travelers can save an average of 40% by booking at the right time.
Airfarewatchdog: Airfarewatchdog focuses on fare alerts and specialized finds for discounted tickets. It tracks deals from airlines that may not show up on search engines. Research by Skyscanner in 2022 emphasized Airfarewatchdog as a valuable resource for last-minute deals.
Skiplagged: Skiplagged identifies “hidden city” fares, allowing travelers to book tickets that require a layover in their actual destination. Although this practice is controversial, travelers can save money. A Forbes article (2021) acknowledged Skiplagged’s innovative approach despite the risks involved.
CheapOair: CheapOair offers deals and discounts specifically targeting budget-conscious travelers. It features last-minute deals and special offers, making it a good option for spontaneous travelers. According to a 2020 review by The Points Guy, CheapOair is recognized for its efficiency in delivering lower airfares.

These websites and apps combine various attributes to assist users in finding affordable flights to South America. Each tool has its strengths, catering to different travel needs and preferences.

Which Flight Search Engines Provide the Best Deals on South American Travel?

Several flight search engines offer competitive deals for South American travel, including Skyscanner, Google Flights, Momondo, and Kayak.

Skyscanner
Google Flights
Momondo
Kayak
Hopper

These platforms provide various tools and features that can help travelers find the best deals. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each search engine can guide readers in making informed decisions when booking flights to South America.

Skyscanner:
Skyscanner provides a comprehensive comparison of flight prices across multiple airlines and travel agencies. Its flexible search options allow users to explore destinations based on budget. According to their data, travelers can save up to 30% by using Skyscanner’s “Everywhere” feature, which suggests the cheapest destinations from a user’s airport.
Google Flights:
Google Flights is known for its user-friendly interface and fast search capabilities. It displays a calendar showing the cheapest days to fly. It also provides information about fare trends. A 2020 survey by the Air Transport Association noted that Google Flights helps users find lower prices in less time, making it a favorable choice for many travelers.
Momondo:
Momondo is praised for its ability to search lesser-known airlines and budget carriers, which can result in significant savings. The platform emphasizes transparency in pricing and shows a wide range of flight options. A study by MoneySavingExpert highlighted that users of Momondo could save up to 20% compared to traditional search engines.
Kayak:
Kayak aggregates deals from other sites and offers a wide array of filters for travelers. It includes price alerts to notify users when flight prices drop. According to their reports, Kayak users often find great deals during off-peak seasons, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
Hopper:
Hopper uses predictive algorithms to forecast future flight prices. It provides notifications to users when fares are expected to rise or fall, allowing travelers to book at the optimal time. The Hopper app claims to save users an average of 10-15% on flights to South America, making it particularly attractive for flexible travelers.

Understanding these options allows travelers to leverage each platform’s unique features. Whether seeking budget airlines, advanced price alerts, or comprehensive fare comparisons, travelers can enhance their booking experience using these search engines.

How Can Being Flexible with Travel Dates Help You Save on Flights to South America?

Being flexible with travel dates can significantly help save on flights to South America by allowing travelers to take advantage of lower fares, avoid peak seasons, and optimize their booking strategies.

Firstly, lower fares are often available on weekdays. Airlines typically have fewer travelers on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. FareCompare.com reported in 2022 that flights can be up to 30% cheaper on these days compared to weekends.

Secondly, traveling during off-peak seasons can result in substantial savings. South America experiences varied peak seasons depending on the destination. For instance, flights to Patagonia can be much cheaper during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter months (June to August). According to data from Skyscanner, travelers can save an average of 24% when flying during off-peak times.

Thirdly, utilizing fare comparison tools becomes easier with flexible dates. Websites like Google Flights and Kayak allow users to see fare variations across a month or even a year. This feature enables travelers to identify the lowest available fares at a glance. A study by CheapAir in 2023 revealed that travelers who used flexible date searches saved about $150 on average for international flights.

Fourthly, last-minute deals are often available for those with flexible schedules. Airlines frequently reduce prices shortly before departure if seats remain unsold. A 2021 report from Expedia showed that last-minute travelers had the potential to save up to 20% compared to booking well in advance.

Lastly, combining flights or considering alternative airports can also enhance savings. Some major cities in South America have multiple airports with varying fare rates. For instance, flying into or out of a different airport than the main one could reduce costs. A comparison by Travel + Leisure in 2023 noted that ticket prices can vary by up to 40% among nearby airports.

These strategies collectively illustrate how flexibility with travel dates can lead to significant discounts on flights to South America.

What Benefits Does Using Incognito Mode Offer When Searching for Flights to South America?

Using Incognito Mode offers various benefits when searching for flights to South America. These benefits include increased privacy, avoidance of price hikes, more accurate searches, and reduced distractions.

Increased privacy
Avoidance of price hikes
More accurate searches
Reduced distractions

By understanding these benefits, travelers can make informed decisions when planning their trips.

Increased Privacy: Using Incognito Mode increases privacy while searching for flights. Browsers do not save history or cookies in this mode, ensuring that personal information and previous searches remain confidential. This feature protects users from targeted advertisements, which can follow them after initial flight searches. According to research from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, 54% of users turned to private browsing for enhanced privacy online.
Avoidance of Price Hikes: Incognito Mode helps avoid potential price hikes based on search behavior. Airline websites might track frequent searches for specific flights and increase prices accordingly, anticipating a higher demand. A report by Skyscanner in 2020 indicated that users faced an average price increase of 20% after multiple searches for the same flight. Incognito Mode circumvents this practice by resetting the browsing session.
More Accurate Searches: Incognito Mode enables travelers to conduct more accurate searches. It starts fresh without the influence of cookies from previous flights. This means users may find unbiased information without being affected by past searches. A study by Google Flights showed that clear searches often yield better results, and Incognito Mode can facilitate that.
Reduced Distractions: Incognito Mode minimizes distractions from advertisements and suggestions based on search history. This allows travelers to focus on their preferred options. A survey conducted by Pew Research in 2019 found that 89% of adults in the U.S. believe they encounter too many ads online. Using Incognito Mode can mitigate these distractions during crucial flight searches.

Using Incognito Mode serves as a valuable tool for travelers seeking transparent and straightforward flight options. Its benefits enhance the experience, making the process of searching and booking flights to South America more efficient.

What Common Fees Should You Avoid When Booking Flights to South America?

When booking flights to South America, you should avoid several common fees to save money.

Baggage fees
Change fees
Seat selection fees
Booking fees
Credit card processing fees
Travel insurance fees
Airport-related fees

Understanding these fees is crucial for budget travelers. This knowledge will help you make more informed decisions during the booking process.

Baggage Fees: Baggage fees refer to charges applied by airlines for checked and sometimes carry-on luggage. Many low-cost carriers in South America charge for checked bags, often increasing overall travel costs. For example, airlines like Gol and LATAM charge fees that can range from $20 to $50, depending on weight and distance. Travelers should check the airline’s baggage policy before booking.
Change Fees: Change fees are penalties that airlines impose when passengers alter their travel plans. Fees can vary significantly; for instance, low-cost carriers may charge $100 or more for itinerary changes. According to a 2020 study by the U.S. Department of Transportation, 25% of all passengers incurred change fees. Knowing the policy and considering flexible tickets can save substantial costs.
Seat Selection Fees: Seat selection fees apply when passengers choose a specific seat on the aircraft in advance. Airlines like Avianca or Flybondi often charge extra for this service, frequently amounting to $10 or more per seat. Some travelers prefer to avoid these charges by opting for automated seating assignments.
Booking Fees: Booking fees might be added by third-party sites when reserving flights. Fees could range from $5 to $50, depending on the platform. Travelers should consider booking directly with the airline to avoid these additional costs.
Credit Card Processing Fees: Credit card processing fees refer to charges that some airlines impose for credit card transactions. These fees can be hidden and vary by airline. For example, certain low-cost airlines may impose a fee of up to 3% on the total fare. Using a debit card or alternative payment method could circumvent these fees.
Travel Insurance Fees: Travel insurance fees are charges for policies that protect travelers against sudden cancellations or medical emergencies. While insurance is essential, some airline-provided insurance policies are overpriced. Shoppers should compare policies from independent providers to find more affordable options that suit their needs.
Airport-Related Fees: Airport-related fees may include charges for using certain terminals or services. For instance, some airports in South America collect passenger service charges that can increase overall costs. Being aware of these fees during the booking process can help travelers plan accordingly.

Understanding these fees allows travelers to make more financially responsible choices when booking flights to South America. By staying informed, you can enhance your travel experience while minimizing expenses.

Which Airlines Are Known for Offering Affordable Flights to South America?

Many airlines are known for offering affordable flights to South America. Some of these airlines include budget carriers and major airlines that provide competitive pricing.

Low-Cost Airlines:
– Spirit Airlines
– JetBlue Airways
– Copa Airlines
Major Airlines with Affordable Options:
– American Airlines
– Delta Air Lines
– United Airlines
South American Carriers:
– LATAM Airlines
– Avianca
– Azul Brazilian Airlines

Many travelers seek to identify the best airlines for budget-friendly flights. There are several options, each with unique attributes and price ranges.

Low-Cost Airlines:
Low-cost airlines offer budget pricing, which attracts budget-conscious travelers. Spirit Airlines operates low-cost routes between the U.S. and South America, targeting travelers seeking value. JetBlue Airways stands out for its customer service and comfortable experience while maintaining low prices. Copa Airlines connects several South American cities with reliable and affordable flights.
Major Airlines with Affordable Options:
Major airlines frequently have sales or last-minute deals for flights to South America. American Airlines provides a wide range of routes and connections, often with competitive pricing. Delta Air Lines also offers reasonable fares, especially during off-peak seasons. United Airlines features various routes and loyalty programs that enhance affordability for recurrent travelers.
South American Carriers:
South American carriers present unique advantages for travelers within the region. LATAM Airlines, the largest airline in Latin America, offers extensive routes and promotions that cater to diverse budgets. Avianca provides quality service and competitive prices, making it a top choice for intra-South America travel. Azul Brazilian Airlines is known for its low rates and diverse route network, often featuring flights in less trafficked areas.

In conclusion, various airlines provide options for affordable flights to South America. Travelers should consider the airline’s route options, service quality, and pricing structures when booking their flights.

How Can Signing Up for Fare Alerts Enhance Your Flight Search Experience for South America?

Signing up for fare alerts significantly enhances your flight search experience for South America by providing timely updates, enabling price comparisons, and ensuring you don’t miss out on deals.

Fare alerts offer several advantages in flying to South America:

Timely updates: Fare alerts notify you immediately when prices drop for specific routes or destinations. According to a Consumer Reports study (2020), 60% of travelers saved money by booking flights after receiving such alerts.
Price comparisons: These alerts allow you to compare prices across different airlines and travel dates. When you receive fare alerts, you can view historical pricing trends and determine the best times to book, which helps maximize savings.
Avoiding missed deals: Many travelers miss out on promotional fares due to a lack of awareness. Fare alerts directly deliver information to your inbox, ensuring you are always informed of limited-time offers or flash sales, which can be particularly common for South American routes during peak seasons.
Customization: You can tailor fare alerts based on your preferred destinations and travel dates. Personalization increases efficiency by focusing only on routes relevant to you, thereby saving you time during your search.
Increased flexibility: Fare alerts encourage flexibility in travel plans. By receiving price changes for various departure dates, you might discover cheaper options if you can adjust your schedule slightly.

Overall, by signing up for fare alerts, you enhance your overall flight search experience, making it easier and more cost-effective to explore South America.

What Are Essential Dos and Don’ts When Booking Cheap Flights to South America?

Booking cheap flights to South America requires careful consideration of several essential dos and don’ts.

Essential Dos:
– Use flight comparison websites
– Set up price alerts
– Book in advance
– Be flexible with travel dates
– Consider nearby airports
– Look for budget airlines
Essential Don’ts:
– Avoid booking last minute
– Don’t disregard layovers
– Avoid peak travel seasons
– Don’t ignore hidden fees
– Don’t rely only on direct flights
– Avoid one-size-fits-all search criteria

Understanding these dos and don’ts can help travelers navigate the complexities of airfare options and potentially lead to significant savings.

Use Flight Comparison Websites:
Using flight comparison websites helps travelers find the best flight deals. These platforms aggregate prices from multiple airlines, allowing users to see different options rapidly. Popular sites like Skyscanner and Kayak offer easy comparison of different routes and departure times. According to a study by The Airfare Spot, travelers can save up to 30% by comparing fares from various sources before making a booking.
Set Up Price Alerts:
Setting up price alerts is a strategic way to monitor fare changes. Most flight comparison websites offer this feature. Travelers can enter their desired destination and travel dates, and the platform will notify them when prices drop. A report by Hopper indicates that travelers who use price alerts purchase tickets at approximately 15% lower than average market prices.
Book in Advance:
Booking in advance typically secures lower prices. Airlines often raise fares as the departure date approaches, especially for popular routes. A study from the airline industry indicates that the best time to book flights is around 70 days before departure, which often provides the best balance of price and availability.
Be Flexible with Travel Dates:
Being flexible with travel dates allows travelers to take advantage of lower fares. Prices can vary significantly based on the day of the week. For example, midweek flights are often cheaper than weekend flights. A 2021 analysis from FareCompare found that flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays can sometimes be up to 20% cheaper than weekend options.
Consider Nearby Airports:
Considering nearby airports can lead to better deals. Major cities often have multiple airports, and flying into a secondary airport may reduce costs. For instance, flying into Buenos Aires’ domestic airport, Aeroparque, could be less expensive than Ezeiza international airport.
Look for Budget Airlines:
Looking for budget airlines can provide significant savings on travel costs. Airlines such as Azul and LATAM often offer lower fares compared to larger carriers. However, travelers should be aware of the potential for additional fees for services like baggage.
Avoid Booking Last Minute:
Avoiding last-minute bookings is crucial for budget travelers. Airlines charge steeply for tickets purchased close to departure dates. According to a 2019 survey by CheapAir, last-minute bookings often result in prices that are, on average, 80% higher than the same ticket purchased weeks in advance.
Don’t Disregard Layovers:
Not disregarding layovers could yield savings. Direct flights are convenient but tend to be more expensive. Booking flights with layovers can reduce ticket costs significantly. In some cases, a layover can save travelers up to 50%.
Avoid Peak Travel Seasons:
Avoiding peak travel seasons helps in finding cheaper flights. Traveling during the off-peak season, such as avoiding holidays and summer months, can result in substantial savings. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) suggests that prices can drop by as much as 40% during non-peak periods.
Don’t Ignore Hidden Fees:
Not ignoring hidden fees is essential. Budget airlines often advertise low base fares but charge exorbitantly for checked baggage and seat reservations. It’s imperative to read the fine print and calculate total costs before booking. According to a report by the US Department of Transportation, hidden fees can reach up to $100 per trip.
Don’t Rely Only on Direct Flights:
Not relying solely on direct flights can expand options and save money. It may sometimes be cheaper to book two separate tickets with layovers than to fly directly. A case study from a travel agency found that travelers could save 25% or more by considering indirect travel options.
Avoid One-Size-Fits-All Search Criteria:
Avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach in flight searches allows for a tailored experience. Travelers should experiment with different criteria, such as varying travel times and multiple departure locations, to discover potential savings. A 2022 study by Skyscanner highlights that travelers using diverse search strategies often find lower prices.

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