How to Find Cheap Flights to London

Book flights to London 6-8 weeks in advance, fly mid-week (Tuesday-Thursday), and use Gatwick or Luton instead of Heathrow. Budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet offer the best deals, especially if you're flexible with dates.

  1. Start with budget airlines. Check Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air first. They fly into Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted which are cheaper to reach than Heathrow. Book directly on their websites to avoid booking fees.
  2. Use the 6-8 week rule. Book domestic flights 6 weeks out, international flights 8 weeks out. Prices spike closer to departure. Set price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner if you're booking further ahead.
  3. Fly Tuesday through Thursday. Avoid Friday-Sunday flights which can cost 40-60% more. Tuesday departures are typically cheapest. Red-eye flights (departing after 10 PM) also cost less.
  4. Compare all London airports. Heathrow is most expensive but closest to central London. Gatwick is 30 minutes by train (£20). Luton and Stansted are 45-60 minutes (£15-25 by bus). Factor transport costs into your comparison.
  5. Clear your browser cookies. Airlines track your searches and may raise prices. Use incognito mode or clear cookies between searches. Check prices on your phone vs computer - they can differ.
  6. Consider nearby airports. Look at flights to Birmingham, Manchester, or even Dublin if you're planning to explore beyond London. Train connections to London cost £25-50 but flights can be £100+ cheaper.
Is it cheaper to book a package deal?
Usually no. Flight + hotel packages look convenient but you'll save more booking separately. Exception: last-minute deals when airlines need to fill seats.
Should I use a VPN to get better prices?
It's hit or miss. Airlines mostly price by departure location, not where you're browsing from. Focus on timing and airport choice instead.
What if my cheap flight gets cancelled?
Budget airlines offer minimal compensation. Buy separate travel insurance (£10-20) if you can't afford rebooking costs. EU flights have better protection under EU261 rules.
Are error fares worth chasing?
Mistake prices (like £100 to Asia) exist but are rare and often cancelled. Follow Secret Flying or Jack's Flight Club, but don't plan around finding them.