Using VPN to Get Cheaper Flights: Does It Really Work?
Travelers are always looking for ways to save money on flights, and one common tip that circulates is using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to find cheaper airfare. But does this trick really work, or is it just a myth? In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore how airlines set prices, how VPNs can potentially help you get better deals, and the best strategies to maximize savings on flights.
How Airlines Determine Flight Prices
Before diving into VPNs, it's important to understand how airlines set ticket prices. Airlines use dynamic pricing, which means prices fluctuate based on various factors, including:
-
Your Location (IP Address)
Airlines and travel websites often show different prices depending on where you are searching from. A traveler in a wealthier country may see higher fares than someone searching from a developing country. -
Demand & Supply
Prices rise when demand is high (e.g., holiday seasons, weekends) and drop when demand is low. -
Cookies & Search History
Some travel websites track your searches using cookies, potentially increasing prices if they detect repeated interest in a specific route. -
Currency Exchange Rates
Airlines sometimes adjust prices based on the currency you are using, making tickets cheaper when booked in a country with a weaker currency. -
Marketing Strategies & Partnerships
Airlines may offer different prices based on agreements with local travel agencies or promotions targeting specific regions.
Now, let’s see how a VPN can play a role in altering these factors.
How a VPN Can Help You Find Cheaper Flights
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) masks your real IP address and allows you to appear as if you are browsing from another country. Since flight prices can vary by location, using a VPN may give you access to cheaper fares. Here’s how:
1. Changing Your Location to a Country with Lower Prices
Airlines sometimes set different prices for different countries based on purchasing power. For example:
- A flight from New York to London might be $800 when booked from the U.S.
- The same flight might be $700 when booked from India
Using a VPN, you can change your location to India and potentially get the lower fare.
2. Avoiding Price Hikes from Search Tracking
Many believe that repeated searches for the same route cause airlines to increase prices. A VPN, combined with incognito mode, prevents websites from tracking your previous searches.
3. Taking Advantage of Currency Exchange Rates
Sometimes, airlines charge different fares based on the local currency of the country you are booking from. A VPN allows you to check fares in different currencies and find the most cost-effective option.
4. Accessing Region-Specific Discounts
Some airlines or travel agencies offer promotions that are only available in certain countries. By using a VPN, you may be able to access these exclusive discounts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a VPN for Cheaper Flights
If you want to test this method, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN
Not all VPNs work well for this purpose. Choose a reputable VPN service that offers multiple server locations, such as:
- NordVPN
- ExpressVPN
- Surfshark
- CyberGhost
- ProtonVPN (free option)
Step 2: Clear Cookies and Use Incognito Mode
Before searching for flights:
- Clear cookies and cache from your browser to remove any tracking data.
- Open a new incognito (private) window to prevent websites from storing new data.
Step 3: Connect to a VPN Server in a Different Country
- Open your VPN app and connect to a country where flight prices are generally lower.
- Good starting points include India, Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, Brazil, and Turkey (these countries often show lower fares).
Step 4: Search for Flights on Multiple Websites
- Visit airline websites and travel agencies like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Expedia, and Kayak.
- Compare prices from different locations by switching your VPN server to another country and repeating the search.
Step 5: Book with the Cheapest Option
- Once you find a lower price, proceed with the booking.
- Make sure the airline allows payments from your preferred method or currency.
Does Using a VPN Always Work?
While a VPN can sometimes help lower flight prices, it doesn’t always guarantee success. Here are some reasons why:
-
Airlines May Detect VPN Use
Some airline websites can recognize and block VPN-based traffic, preventing you from accessing their booking pages. -
Not All Routes Have Price Differences
Flights between major hubs (e.g., London to New York) may have uniform pricing regardless of location. -
Currency Exchange and Foreign Transaction Fees
Booking from another country may involve foreign transaction fees or currency conversion costs, which could offset savings. -
Airlines May Require Local Payment Methods
Some airlines require a local credit card or billing address to complete the purchase.
Alternative Strategies to Find Cheap Flights
If a VPN doesn't give you the best deal, try these other proven flight-booking strategies:
1. Book at the Right Time
- The best time to book is usually 6-8 weeks before departure for domestic flights and 2-3 months before international flights.
- Prices tend to rise sharply within two weeks of departure.
2. Use Flight Comparison Websites
- Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo compare fares from multiple sources.
- Enable price alerts to get notified when fares drop.
3. Be Flexible with Dates & Airports
- Flying midweek (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) is often cheaper than weekends.
- Consider alternate airports (e.g., flying into Oakland instead of San Francisco).
4. Use Hidden City Ticketing (With Caution)
- Websites like Skiplagged find cheaper fares by booking a longer route and skipping the last leg.
- Airlines dislike this practice and may cancel frequent flyer miles.
5. Check for Airline Sales & Error Fares
- Follow airline websites and social media for flash sales.
- Websites like Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog track mistake fares.
Final Verdict: Should You Use a VPN for Cheaper Flights?
Using a VPN can help you find lower flight prices, but it is not a foolproof method. Success depends on the airline’s pricing strategy, location-based pricing differences, and whether the airline detects VPN usage.
When a VPN Works Well:
✔️ When booking from countries with higher fares (e.g., U.S., U.K., Australia)
✔️ When airlines price tickets differently based on location
✔️ When avoiding price hikes from tracking
When a VPN Might Not Work:
❌ When airlines enforce uniform global pricing
❌ When booking requires a local payment method
❌ When exchange rates and fees offset savings
If you’re serious about saving money on flights, a combination of VPN tricks, flexible search strategies, and booking at the right time will give you the best results.
Would you try using a VPN for your next flight search? Share your experience!
