How to Buy Cheap Flights to China from Baltimore
As someone who has lived in Baltimore for quite a while, finding cheap flights home to China is always on my mind, especially with family back in Shanghai. Here are some tips I’ve gathered over the years that might help you save a few bucks!
1. Plan Ahead
From my experience, planning ahead is crucial. I typically start checking prices about two to three months before my planned departure, especially around busy travel times like Chinese New Year or the Mid-Autumn Festival. I remember last year in early December, while sipping coffee at a café in Mt. Washington, I found a ticket from Baltimore to Beijing for just $600. By the time I was ready to book closer to the holiday, that price had jumped to $800!
2. Be Flexible with Dates
If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you’re more likely to find a better deal. I’ve made the mistake of booking flights during long weekends, only to see the prices shoot up by $300. Try to avoid traveling on weekends or holidays. I usually aim for flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays; they're often the cheapest.
3. Use Flight Comparison Websites
I love using comparison websites like Kayak and Skyscanner to hunt for flights. They often show hidden gems, like flying out of Baltimore to Los Angeles first, then catching a connecting flight to China. It sounds a bit cumbersome, but it can save you a lot! In fact, our local Chinese community in Baltimore frequently shares flight deals in our WeChat groups, which helps everyone find good rates.
4. Don’t Overlook Local Airlines
While we all tend to flock to major airlines, local smaller carriers can sometimes offer great deals too. I’ve flown with Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines from nearby BWI, and they sometimes have surprisingly affordable international tickets.
5. Join Airline Loyalty Programs
Finally, consider enrolling in airline loyalty programs. Accumulating points can lead to free flights down the road. I often use Delta’s program. Even if I don’t always fly Delta to get home, those points still add up over time.
By using these tips, I manage to visit my family every year without breaking the bank. I hope these insights are helpful for my fellow Chinese Americans living in Baltimore! For more local resources, check out [PandaListing](https://pandalisting.com) for travel listings and community info.
Happy travels!