Traveling can be expensive, but savvy travelers know how to leverage technology to find the best deals.
One such strategy involves using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access cheaper flight prices by spoofing geographic locations. As airlines often adjust ticket prices based on the buyer’s location, a VPN can make it appear as though you are booking from a country with lower prices. For example, a VPN like ExpressVPN has been shown to help users save significantly; one user saved $216 on a flight from Denmark to Vietnam by connecting through a server in a low-income country.
Moreover, affordable VPN options like NordVPN and Surfshark not only offer a broad range of servers but also provide additional security features, making them ideal for both securing personal data and snagging budget-friendly fares. Utilizing a VPN could be your key to unlocking cheaper travel options without compromising on the quality or security of your bookings.
Why Use a VPN for Flight Bookings?
Airlines frequently use pricing algorithms that offer different prices in different markets. This means that the price displayed for a flight on your screen could be significantly higher than what someone in another country sees for the exact same flight. For instance, a traveler from the US used ExpressVPN to change their location to a low-income country, which helped them save $216 on a flight from Denmark to Vietnam.
Top Affordable VPN Services for Cheap Flights
- ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN stands out as a top choice for travelers looking to find cheap flights. It boasts a vast server network spanning 105 countries, ensuring you can almost always find a server in a location that might offer cheaper flight options. Users have reported significant savings, like a UK user who saved $144 on a Spain to Australia flight by connecting through a Malaysian server. - NordVPN
Highlighted by Cybernews, NordVPN offers an extensive network with over 6,300 servers in 111 countries. Its speed and security are unparalleled, thanks to the NordLynx protocol, making it not only great for securing cheaper flights but also ensuring your online activities remain secure, especially important in highly restricted countries. - Surfshark
Surfshark provides excellent value with 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. It’s particularly noted for its CleanWeb feature, which blocks trackers that could influence flight prices based on your browsing habits. Affordable plans and a 30-day money-back guarantee make Surfshark a strong contender for travelers.
Additional Tips for Using VPNs to Book Cheap Flights
Besides choosing the right VPN, here are a few strategies to ensure you get the best deal:
- Clear your cookies and cache: Before you start searching for flights, clear your browsing history and cookies. Airlines track your visits and might raise prices to create a sense of urgency.
- Use incognito mode: Always search for flights in incognito or private browsing mode to prevent your browser from saving any information that could be used to manipulate prices.
- Experiment with server locations: Don’t settle on the first price you see. Connect to different servers in various countries to compare prices extensively.
- Check flights on comparison sites: Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights in conjunction with your VPN. These platforms can help you see a broader range of prices from different locations.
Legal Considerations and Best Practices
It’s important to note that while using a VPN to book flights from another country is legal in most parts of the world, some countries have restrictions on VPN usage. Always ensure you’re compliant with local laws. Additionally, while free VPNs might be tempting, they often lack the necessary security features and server options, potentially leading to slower connections and less reliable price savings.
In conclusion
utilizing a VPN can be a game-changer for securing cheap flights. By strategically selecting your VPN server location, clearing your browsing data, and using flight comparison tools, you can potentially save hundreds on your travel expenses, making your next adventure more accessible and affordable.
