Finding affordable flights can feel like a game of chance, but once you understand how prices move, it becomes a simple system you can use again and again. This guide is written for South African travellers and focuses on routes like Johannesburg–Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth, using tools you already know such as Travelstart and airline deal pages.
Use these ten practical tips as a checklist every time you book. You don’t have to use all of them at once – even two or three can shave hundreds of rand off a return ticket.
1. Be Flexible with Your Dates
Flying on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday is often cheaper than peak days such as Friday and Sunday. If your dates are flexible, use the “flexible dates” or full calendar view when searching – this instantly shows which days have the lowest fares.
2. Book in the Sweet Spot (4–6 Weeks Before Domestic Trips)
For most domestic routes in South Africa, the sweet spot is about one to two months before you fly. Last‑minute tickets are usually more expensive unless there’s a flash sale. For peak periods like December holidays or Easter, aim for 2–3 months ahead.
3. Compare Airlines and Flight Times
Don’t only look at one airline. Low‑cost carriers like FlySafair, Lift, and CemAir often have amazing specials, but sometimes full‑service airlines match or beat them on unpopular time slots. Very early morning or late‑night departures are often cheaper and less busy.
4. Travel Light If You Can
Many of the cheapest fares are hand‑luggage only. If you can travel with a cabin bag and a small personal item, you’ll save a lot. If you know you’ll need checked luggage, compare the total price after adding bags – a slightly higher base fare with bags included can work out cheaper than a bare‑bones ticket with add‑ons.
5. Avoid Peak Travel Days and Times
Prices usually spike:
- Friday afternoons and Sunday afternoons (weekend returns)
- Public holiday weekends
- Mid‑December to early January
If possible, fly mid‑week or shift your trip by a day on either side of major holidays.
6. Use Price Filters and “Cheapest First” Sorting
On most booking sites you can sort by “cheapest first” and filter by number of stops, times, and airlines. Start by looking at the cheapest options that still give you a reasonable departure time and baggage allowance.
7. Sign Up for Deal Alerts
Many South Africans find their best deals through email alerts and app notifications. Subscribe to airline newsletters and follow your favourite carriers and VistaVoyage‑recommended partners on social media. Flash sales often run for 24–48 hours only.
8. Look at Alternative Airports
If you’re flexible, consider alternative airports:
- Flying into Lanseria instead of OR Tambo for certain routes
- George instead of Port Elizabeth for Garden Route trips
Additional road time may be worth it if the saving is big enough.
9. Check Total Value, Not Just the Ticket Price
The cheapest ticket is not always the best value. Consider:
- Airport location and transport costs
- Change or cancellation fees
- Whether snacks, seat choice, or checked bags are included
Sometimes spending a little more upfront saves you money – and stress – later.
10. Lock In a Good Deal When You See It
Flight prices can change several times a day. If you’ve compared options and found a fare that works for your budget, don’t wait too long. Great deals, especially around payday and school holidays, can sell out quickly.
Popular Routes to Start With
If you’re just getting used to searching and comparing, start with South Africa’s busiest routes – they often have the most frequent specials:
- Flights from Johannesburg to Cape Town
- Flights from Johannesburg to Durban
- Flights from Cape Town to Durban
Ready to Put These Tips Into Action?
Use this guide as a checklist the next time you search for flights. Compare a few dates, look at different airlines, and keep an eye on luggage and extra fees. With a bit of flexibility and planning, cheap flights become the norm rather than the exception.
Next step: Start browsing live flight deals on VistaVoyage and use these tips to lock in your next adventure for less.