My Experience Finding Cheap Flights from Maine to China
Every year, I make a trip back to China from Maine to visit family, and I always hope to find the cheapest flights possible. For us Maine Chinese residents, booking flights can be a bit challenging, but I've compiled a few tips that might help you save some money.
Choose the Right Time to Travel
Firstly, the time of year greatly affects flight prices. Generally, spring and fall (around March to May and September to November) are the cheapest times to fly. I recall buying a round-trip ticket last June for around $800, but if I had traveled in the fall, I could have snagged it for about $600!
Use Comparison Websites
In Maine, websites like Google Flights and Skyscanner are incredibly useful for comparing prices. I usually set price alerts so that I’m notified when there’s a cheaper ticket available. Last year, I found a flight from Portland International Jetport (PWM) that was on sale, and I got a direct flight for just $750. That’s money I could spend on Chinese snacks to bring back!
Be Flexible with Airports
Some friends prefer flying out from Boston or New York because they have more flight options that tend to be more competitively priced. If you don’t mind driving a bit, Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston is about a two-hour drive from Maine, and it’s common to find tickets under $600, especially during the holiday season.
Keep an Eye on Airline Promotions
Many airlines frequently run promotional deals, like Air China and China Eastern Airlines. I often check their official websites for the latest offers. Last year, I found a buy-one-get-one-free deal on Air China’s website, which was a steal!
Join Frequent Flyer Programs
If you travel back home often, joining an airline's frequent flyer program is also worth considering. The points you accumulate can be used for free tickets or upgrades, which is incredibly handy. A friend of mine used this method to upgrade to business class right before his trip home, making for an unforgettable journey!
Overall, finding cheap flights requires a bit of patience and strategy. If you have other tips, feel free to share them on [PandaListing](https://www.pandalisting.com)!