Skyscanner App: How to Find Cheap Flights

What is Skyscanner?

Skyscanner is one of the most popular search engines for flights, hotels and car rentals. The app searches hundreds of airlines and travel websites to find the best prices for your trip. Whether you're flying to Barcelona or to the other side of the world, Skyscanner helps you find the cheapest option.

The big advantage of Skyscanner is its independence. The app compares prices from both airlines and online travel agencies and shows all the options side by side. This gives you a complete overview of what is available and at what price.

Downloading and setting up the Skyscanner app

Step 1: Download the app

The Skyscanner app is available for free on Android and iOS. Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and search for 'Skyscanner'. Download the app with the blue airplane logo.

Step 2: Set your language and currency

The first time you use the app, you can set your preferences. Choose Dutch as the language and Euro as the currency for clear price display. You can always change this later in the settings.

Step 3: Create an account (optional)

An account isn't required, but it has benefits. With an account you can save searches, set up price alerts and keep your travel history. Sign up with your email address or a social media account.

Searching for flights with Skyscanner

Enter your departure and destination

On the home screen, select your departure and arrival airport. Type the city or country and the app shows the available airports. You can also select 'Everywhere' as your destination to discover where you can fly the cheapest.

Select your travel dates

Choose your departure and return date, or select 'One way' if you're not flying back. The 'Cheapest month' option is ideal if your dates are flexible. Skyscanner then shows the cheapest days to fly.

Number of passengers and class

Enter the number of travelers and choose the cabin class: economy, premium economy, business or first class. Prices are adjusted based on your selection. For families with children there is a separate option to show the right fares.

Analyzing search results

Sorting results

After searching, Skyscanner shows all available flights. You can sort by price (lowest first), duration or best option. The best option balances price and travel time for maximum convenience.

Viewing flight details

Tap a flight for more details. You see the exact flight times, stopovers, baggage rules and which websites offer the flight. Compare different providers for the same flight, since prices can vary.

Direct vs. with a stopover

Direct flights are often more expensive but save time. Flights with stopovers can be considerably cheaper, but take the extra travel time into account. The app clearly shows how many stops each flight has and how long the layover is.

Flexible search options

Searching a whole month

Select 'Whole month' instead of specific dates to see a calendar with prices per day. Days highlighted in green are the cheapest. This helps you find the best days to travel.

Searching everywhere

Not sure where you want to go? Choose 'Everywhere' as your destination. Skyscanner then shows the cheapest flights to destinations worldwide from your airport. Ideal for spontaneous travelers looking for inspiration.

Comparing multiple airports

In the Netherlands you can often choose between Schiphol, Eindhoven, Rotterdam or even Brussels. Search from multiple airports to find the best deal. Sometimes a slightly longer trip to another airport is worth the extra discount.

Setting up price alerts

How price alerts work

Skyscanner can keep you informed about price changes for your search. The app analyzes price trends and predicts whether the price will go up or down. This helps you decide when to book.

Activating an alert

After a search, tap 'Set price alert'. Enter your email address and choose how often you want to receive updates. You get a notification as soon as the price drops significantly.

Smart booking suggestions

Skyscanner advises whether you should book now or would be better off waiting. This is based on historical price data and seasonal patterns. Although it's not 100% accurate, it's a handy indicator.

Booking through Skyscanner

Redirect to the booking site

Skyscanner is a comparison tool, not a booking site. When you select a flight and tap 'View deal', you're sent to the website of the airline or online travel agency to complete the booking.

Comparing providers

The same flight can be offered by several parties at different prices. Don't just compare the price, compare the terms as well. Some providers charge extra for baggage or seat selection.

Booking with the airline

If in doubt, you can consider booking directly with the airline. This may be a little more expensive, but often gives you better service in case of changes or problems. You can also earn loyalty points.

Extra Skyscanner features

Searching for hotels

Besides flights, Skyscanner also compares hotel prices. Combine your flight and hotel search in one app for a complete travel overview. The hotel search works much like the flight search.

Car rental

Need a rental car at your destination? Skyscanner also compares car rental companies. Enter your pick-up and drop-off location along with the dates to see available cars and prices.

Saved searches

With an account, your searches are saved automatically. You can come back to your search later without entering everything again. Handy for trips you're still planning.

Tips for the cheapest flights

Book in time

In general, flights to European destinations are cheapest 6-8 weeks before departure. For intercontinental flights, 2-3 months in advance is often ideal. Last-minute can sometimes be a bargain, but it's risky.

Be flexible

Flexibility in your dates and even your destination can save you hundreds of euros. Flying on weekdays is often cheaper than on weekends. Early morning or late evening flights are usually cheaper.

Incognito browsing

There are stories that airfares go up after repeated searches. Although this hasn't been proven, you can play it safe by searching in incognito mode or clearing your cookies before you book.

Conclusion

The Skyscanner app is a powerful tool for finding cheap flights. By comparing prices from hundreds of providers and offering flexible search options and smart price alerts, it helps you save as much as possible on your flights. Whether you're planning a specific trip or looking for inspiration, Skyscanner shows you all the possibilities. Download the app and discover how affordable flying can be.

Frequently asked questions

Is Skyscanner free to use?

Yes, Skyscanner is completely free. You pay nothing to search and compare flights. Skyscanner earns money through commissions from the booking sites it refers you to, not from its users.

Do I book the flight through Skyscanner itself?

No, Skyscanner is a comparison tool that refers you to the website of the airline or an online travel agency. The actual booking and payment take place with the provider, not with Skyscanner.

Are the prices on Skyscanner always correct?

Skyscanner shows current prices, but they can change quickly. Sometimes the price on the booking site differs slightly. Always check the final price with the provider before you book. Small differences can occur.

What if I have problems with my booking?

Because you book with an external party, contact the airline or travel agency you booked with if you run into problems. Skyscanner can help you with questions about the app, but not with booking problems at third parties.