Scoring last-minute flight deals can be a great way to save money on your travel plans. Here are some tips to help you find those discounted fares:

1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

Being flexible with your travel dates can increase your chances of finding last-minute flight deals. Airlines often offer lower fares for flights departing on weekdays or during off-peak hours. Use a flight search engine like Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare prices across multiple airlines and find the cheapest options.

2. Sign up for Fare Alerts

Subscribe to fare alert services offered by various travel websites and airlines. These alerts notify you when there are significant price drops or last-minute deals for specific routes. Examples of popular fare alert services include Kayak and Airfarewatchdog.

3. Check for Last-Minute Deals on Airline Websites

Visit the websites of different airlines and look for their last-minute deals or special offers section. Airlines occasionally release discounted fares for unsold seats a few days before the departure date. Keep an eye out for flash sales or limited-time promotions.

4. Utilize Social Media

Follow airlines and travel deal websites on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. Airlines often announce flash sales or last-minute deals exclusively on their social media channels. By following them, you can stay updated on the latest offers and snatch up discounted fares quickly.

5. Consider Alternate Airports

Check if there are alternate airports near your destination. Sometimes, flying into or out of a nearby airport can result in cheaper fares. Use the airport code search option on flight search engines to explore all available options.

6. Use Incognito Mode or Clear Browser Cookies

When searching for flights, use the incognito mode in your web browser or clear your browser cookies. Some travel websites use cookies to track your search history and may increase prices based on your previous searches. By using incognito mode or clearing your cookies, you can avoid potential price hikes.

Remember, scoring last-minute flight deals requires flexibility, persistence, and a bit of luck. By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can increase your chances of finding discounted fares for your spontaneous travel plans.