Planning a trip has never been easier, especially when it comes to finding affordable flights and accommodations. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can score incredible deals that would have been impossible to find just a decade ago.
Whether you’re a budget traveler, a frequent flyer, or simply someone who enjoys getting the best value for your money, these travel apps will revolutionize how you book your next adventure.
I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best travel apps specifically designed to help you find cheap flights and hotels, complete with their key features, pros and cons, and direct links to download them. Let’s dive into these money-saving travel companions that should be on every traveler’s smartphone.
1. Skyscanner: The All-in-One Travel Deal Finder
Skyscanner has established itself as one of the most trusted names in travel comparison sites, and its mobile app carries that legacy forward brilliantly.
What makes Skyscanner stand out is its ability to search across hundreds of airlines and online travel agencies simultaneously, ensuring you never miss a deal. The app’s clean interface makes it incredibly user-friendly, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
Its “Everywhere” search feature is particularly valuable for flexible travelers who are open to exploring new destinations based on the best available deals. Skyscanner also offers price alerts that notify you when fares drop for your desired routes.
Key Features:
- Price alerts for specific routes
- “Everywhere” search option for flexible travelers
- Month view to find the cheapest days to fly
- No booking fees (redirects to airline or agency sites for purchase)
- Multi-city search capabilities
- Comprehensive filter options (direct flights, specific airlines, etc.)
- Flight + Hotel package deals
- Car rental comparison
Pros:
- Searches across hundreds of airlines and travel sites
- Clean, intuitive interface
- No hidden fees
- Excellent price comparison tool
Cons:
- Redirects to third-party sites for actual booking
- Some deals may expire quickly
- Occasional price discrepancies between app and final booking site
2. Hopper: Predict and Save on Future Bookings
Hopper has revolutionized the travel booking space with its predictive algorithm that forecasts future price changes with remarkable accuracy.
The app claims to predict airfare and hotel price changes with 95% accuracy up to a year in advance.
This unique feature makes Hopper particularly valuable for travelers who plan ahead. The app uses a color-coded calendar to visually represent price fluctuations, making it easy to identify the cheapest times to book.
Additionally, Hopper’s “Watch a Trip” feature monitors prices 24/7 and sends instant notifications when prices drop or are about to increase, helping you book at precisely the right moment to maximize savings.
Key Features:
- Price prediction technology (claims 95% accuracy)
- Color-coded calendar showing cheapest travel dates
- “Watch” feature for price drop alerts
- Freeze price option (hold a price for a small fee)
- Secret fares exclusive to Hopper users
- Hotel deals and price monitoring
- Carrot Cash rewards program
- Flexible date watch
Pros:
- Accurate price predictions
- User-friendly visual interface
- Exclusive deals not found elsewhere
- Book directly within the app
Cons:
- Booking fees apply
- Limited filter options compared to some competitors
- Freeze price feature costs extra
3. Momondo: Colorful Interface with Powerful Search Tools
Momondo stands out in the travel app space with its vibrant, user-friendly interface and powerful search capabilities.
The app goes beyond standard price comparisons by incorporating a “Trip Finder” feature that helps inspire your next destination based on your budget constraints.
What makes Momondo particularly valuable is its ability to search across both major carriers and smaller budget airlines that other aggregators sometimes miss. The app’s price calendar provides an excellent visual representation of fare fluctuations, making it easy to identify the cheapest days to fly.
For travelers who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality, Momondo delivers a seamless experience that simplifies the often complex process of finding the best flight deals.
Key Features:
- “Trip Finder” tool for destination inspiration within budget
- Price calendar showing cheapest days to travel
- “Mix and match” feature for combining different airlines
- Price analysis tool comparing current rates to historical data
- Filter for “cheapest,” “quickest,” or “best” flights
- Flight quality score based on duration, stops, and price
- City guides for popular destinations
- Hotel and car rental search capabilities
Pros:
- Comprehensive search including budget airlines
- Visually appealing, intuitive interface
- Excellent price comparison tools
- Inspiration features for undecided travelers
Cons:
- Redirects to third-party sites for booking
- Occasional price discrepancies when redirecting
- Limited rewards program
- Search can be slower than some competitors
4. Kayak: Comprehensive Travel Search Engine
Kayak has been a mainstay in the travel comparison space for over a decade, and its mobile app continues to be one of the most comprehensive options available.
The app excels at providing an all-in-one travel planning experience, covering flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. Kayak’s strength lies in its robust filtering capabilities, allowing users to narrow down options by airline, departure time, price range, and even aircraft type.
The app’s Price Forecast feature analyzes historical data to recommend whether you should book now or wait for a better deal. For business travelers, Kayak’s trip organization tools make it easy to keep track of all your bookings in one place.
Key Features:
- Price alerts for specific routes
- Price forecast tool to predict fare changes
- Flexible dates search (±3 days)
- Comprehensive filtering options
- Flight + Hotel package deals
- Trip organization tools
- Explore feature showing destinations within your budget
- AR baggage sizer to check if your carry-on meets requirements
Pros:
- All-in-one travel booking platform
- Powerful search filters
- Trip organization tools
- Multiple currency support
Cons:
- Interface can feel cluttered with too many options
- Redirects to third-party sites for booking
- Occasional price discrepancies
- Ads can be intrusive
5. Airbnb: Alternative Accommodations with Local Flavor
While primarily known for unique accommodations rather than traditional hotels, Airbnb deserves a spot on this list for budget-conscious travelers looking for alternatives to standard hotel stays.
The Airbnb app connects travelers with local hosts offering everything from spare rooms to entire luxury villas, often at prices significantly lower than comparable hotels.
What makes Airbnb special is the opportunity to experience destinations like a local, with access to residential neighborhoods, kitchens for self-catering, and hosts who can provide insider tips.
The app has evolved to include Experiences (local activities) and a growing inventory of boutique hotels, making it a versatile option for all types of travelers.
Key Features:
- Wide range of accommodations (rooms, apartments, houses, unique stays)
- Map view to browse by location
- Verified photos and detailed property descriptions
- Secure in-app messaging with hosts
- Instant booking option for immediate confirmation
- Reviews from previous guests
- Split payment feature for group travel
- Wishlist creation for future trips
Pros:
- Often cheaper than equivalent hotel accommodations
- Access to local neighborhoods and experiences
- Kitchen facilities reduce food costs while traveling
- Unique, memorable stays not available elsewhere
Cons:
- Additional fees (cleaning, service) can add up
- Less standardized than hotels
- May require more planning and communication
- Not ideal for travelers seeking hotel amenities
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6. Expedia: One-Stop Shop for Travel Deals
Expedia’s mobile app transforms the comprehensive capabilities of its website into a sleek, on-the-go booking platform that excels at package deals.
The app leverages Expedia’s massive inventory of flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities to create bundled savings that can significantly reduce the total cost of your trip. Expedia’s loyalty program, One Key, is particularly valuable for frequent travelers, offering points on bookings that can be redeemed for future travel.
The app also features exclusive mobile-only deals that aren’t available on the desktop site, giving app users access to additional discounts. For travelers who prefer booking all elements of their trip in one place, Expedia offers convenience and potential savings.
Key Features:
- Bundle deals (flight + hotel + car) for greater savings
- Exclusive mobile-only deals
- One Key rewards program
- Last-minute hotel discounts
- Virtual passport for trip organization
- Real-time flight notifications
- Hotel price match guarantee
- Verified customer reviews
Pros:
- Comprehensive one-stop booking platform
- Substantial savings on package deals
- Loyalty program with valuable rewards
- 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- Not always the absolute cheapest for individual bookings
- Limited flexibility for complex itineraries
- Cancellation policies vary by booking
- Customer service can be hit or miss
7. Booking.com: Vast Hotel Inventory with Great Deals
Booking.com has established itself as a global leader in accommodation bookings, with an inventory of over 28 million reported listings worldwide.
The app specializes in finding hotel deals across all price points, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. What sets Booking.com apart is its Genius loyalty program, which offers progressive discounts and perks the more you use the service.
Reaching higher Genius levels unlocks benefits like room upgrades, free breakfasts, and airport transfers. The app’s interface makes it easy to filter accommodations based on specific needs such as free cancellation, breakfast included, or specific amenities.
For travelers primarily focused on finding the best hotel deals, Booking.com’s massive inventory and frequent promotions make it an essential tool.
Key Features:
- Genius loyalty program with tiered benefits
- Last-minute deals for spontaneous travelers
- “Book now, pay later” options at many properties
- Verified guest reviews
- Map view with neighborhood information
- Free cancellation filters
- Price match guarantee
- In-app messaging with accommodations
Pros:
- Largest selection of accommodations worldwide
- Competitive prices with Genius discounts
- Flexible booking options
- Detailed property information and photos
Cons:
- Limited flight booking capabilities
- App can be slow to load in areas with poor connectivity
- Some properties require non-refundable bookings for best rates
- Filter options can be overwhelming
8. Hotels.com: Rewards Program for Frequent Hotel Bookers
Hotels.com, now part of the Expedia Group and using the One Key rewards system, offers a specialized platform focused primarily on accommodation bookings worldwide.
The app features over hundreds of thousands of properties, from major hotel chains to independent boutique options. What makes Hotels.com particularly appealing is its straightforward rewards program—collect stamps for eligible stays and earn rewards.
The app’s secret prices (available to members who have signed up for free) offer exclusive discounts not visible to the general public. Hotels.com also excels at providing detailed information about each property, including high-resolution photos, amenity lists, and verified guest reviews, helping you make informed decisions about where to stay.
Key Features:
- One Key rewards program
- Secret prices for members
- Last-minute deals section
- Detailed neighborhood guides
- Collections feature for organizing saved properties
- Price match guarantee
- Real guest reviews with photos
- Map view with points of interest
Pros:
- User-friendly interface focused on accommodations
- Valuable rewards program
- Detailed property information
- Good selection of independent hotels
Cons:
- Limited transportation booking options
- Some exclusive deals require upfront payment
- Rewards program recently changed (from collect 10, get 1 free to One Key)
- Customer service response times can vary
9. Agoda: Asian Market Specialist with Global Reach
Originally focusing on the Asian market, Agoda has expanded into a global platform that often features unique deals not found on other booking sites.
The app is particularly valuable for travelers heading to destinations in Asia, where it frequently offers the most competitive hotel rates and local accommodation options. Agoda’s “AgodaCash” program rewards users with credits that can be applied to future bookings, effectively providing additional discounts for loyal customers.
The app’s interface allows for easy comparison of different room types within the same property, helping you optimize your selection based on your specific needs and budget constraints. For those traveling to Asia or looking for alternative deal sources, Agoda is an essential addition to your travel app collection.
Key Features:
- AgodaCash rewards program
- Special “Today’s Deals” section
- Insider Deals for members
- Mix and save feature for booking multiple hotels
- Early bird and last-minute discounts
- Extensive filters for specific amenities
- Secret deals for app users
- Local experience bookings
Pros:
- Often has the best deals in Asian markets
- Unique inventory not always found elsewhere
- Easy-to-use interface with clear pricing
- Helpful customer reviews specific to room types
Cons:
- Customer service can be challenging for complex issues
- Some properties require prepayment
- Variable cancellation policies
- Rewards program less valuable than some competitors
10. Hostelworld: Budget-Friendly Accommodations for Social Travelers
Hostelworld specializes in budget accommodations with a social focus, making it the go-to app for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking to stretch their travel budget.
While primarily focused on hostels, the app also includes budget hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses. What makes Hostelworld unique is its emphasis on the social aspects of travel—the app provides detailed information about common areas, organized activities, and the overall atmosphere of each property.
The rating system includes categories specifically relevant to budget travelers, such as “atmosphere” and “location.” For travelers who view accommodations not just as a place to sleep but as a way to meet fellow travelers, Hostelworld provides invaluable insights and connections.
Key Features:
- Extensive hostel database worldwide
- Detailed property descriptions focusing on social aspects
- Free cancellation options
- “Pay now or pay later” flexibility
- Hostel activity information
- Map view with public transportation information
- Verified guest reviews by category
- Group booking capabilities
Pros:
- Lowest prices for budget accommodations
- Focus on social traveler experience
- Detailed information about hostel atmosphere
- User reviews from like-minded travelers
Cons:
- Limited to budget accommodations
- No flight booking capabilities
- No rewards program
- Deposit may be required for some bookings
How to Get the Most Out of Travel Booking Apps
To maximize your savings and efficiency when using these travel apps, consider these expert tips:
1. Use Multiple Apps for Comparison
Relying on a single app might mean missing out on better deals elsewhere. Apps like Skyscanner, Hopper, Google Flights, and Kayak all pull data from different sources and offer unique deals.
One might excel in domestic flights while another has better international fares. Check each for the same dates and destinations to ensure you’re getting the lowest price.
It’s also worth checking directly with airlines or hotels after comparing, as some providers offer exclusive discounts for direct bookings.
2. Set Up Price Alerts
Most travel apps let you track prices for specific routes or destinations. Enable these alerts early—weeks or even months in advance.
You’ll receive notifications when prices drop, helping you book at the lowest rate. Apps like Hopper go a step further by predicting the best time to buy. These alerts are especially useful during sales or when airlines adjust fares based on demand.
3. Be Flexible with Dates
Prices can vary dramatically from one day to the next. Use flexible search tools like “±3 days” or “cheapest month” features to see if leaving a day earlier or later could save you money.
Avoid peak travel days—Fridays, Sundays, and holidays tend to be more expensive. Midweek flights are often cheaper and less crowded.
4. Book at the Right Time
Timing is crucial for securing the best rates. For domestic flights, the sweet spot is usually 1 to 3 months before departure.
For international trips, aim for 2 to 6 months in advance. Booking too early or too late can lead to inflated prices. Use trend data from apps like Hopper or Google Flights to determine the ideal booking window for your destination.
5. Clear Your Cookies
Many booking platforms use tracking cookies that can detect repeated searches for the same route, potentially increasing prices to create urgency.
To avoid this, use incognito or private browsing mode, or clear your browser’s cookies and cache regularly. This ensures you see the most accurate and uninflated prices.
6. Consider Alternative Airports
Larger cities often have multiple airports. For example, in New York, compare prices between JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark.
Many apps let you search all nearby airports at once. Sometimes, flying into or out of a smaller or less central airport can save hundreds of dollars.
Be sure to factor in ground transportation costs and time when weighing these options.
7. Join Loyalty Programs
Most booking apps have free loyalty or membership programs, such as Expedia Rewards, Booking.com Genius, or Hotels.com Rewards.
These programs often offer members-only pricing, perks like free upgrades or breakfast, and the ability to earn points toward future bookings. Frequent users can accumulate significant savings and benefits over time.
FAQ: Travel Apps for Cheap Flights and Hotels
Are travel booking apps safe to use?
Yes, reputable travel booking apps like those listed in this article use secure encryption for transactions. However, it’s always best to use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication when available.
Can I cancel bookings made through these apps?
Cancellation policies vary by app and specific booking. Always check the cancellation terms before confirming your reservation. Many apps offer filter options to show only fully refundable bookings.
How far in advance should I book flights or hotels for the best deals?
For flights, domestic trips typically have the best prices 1-3 months in advance, while international flights are often cheapest 2-6 months ahead. For hotels, booking 2-4 weeks ahead usually offers good rates, though last-minute deals can sometimes be found for accommodations.
Conclusion
As travel costs continue to rise, having the right apps on your smartphone can make a significant difference in how much you spend on flights and accommodations. Each app on our list offers unique advantages, from Skyscanner’s comprehensive flight search capabilities to Hopper’s predictive pricing, from Booking.com’s vast hotel inventory to Airbnb’s local experiences.
Remember that prices fluctuate constantly based on demand, seasonality, and availability, so starting your search early and monitoring prices over time will help you score the best deals. With these powerful tools at your fingertips, you’re well-equipped to plan your next adventure without breaking the bank.
Brett is a tech enthusiast with a deep curiosity for exploring digital tools, apps, and gadgets that simplify everyday life. This passion led him to start his blog, where he shares in-depth reviews, helpful guides, and honest recommendations about the best apps and tech solutions available today.