Travel is an important part of many Day 1 CPT students' lives. In today’s blog, we share updated tips and tricks on how to book the cheapest domestic flights in the US. Even if you're not a Day 1 CPT student, these tips can help when planning short trips. We'll also introduce the new trick of 2024 in this article -> how to use ChatGPT to find the cheapest flight faster than ever!
Day 1 CPT Students & On-Site Requirements
Day 1 CPT programs often have low on-site attendance requirements, ranging from once per week to once per semester. This flexibility allows students to choose schools outside their home states.
Proximity Matters for Day 1 CPT
In many of our previous articles, we have highlighted the importance of proximity when choosing Day 1 CPT universities. Not only does this reduce your RFE rate when applying for H1B, but it also saves money on commuting to on-site classes. However, not every state has Day 1 CPT universities, and not all programs may fit your needs. Additionally, some students plan to develop their careers in other states, making an out-of-state Day 1 CPT school the only option. If you need to travel for your Day 1 CPT on-site classes and want to save on transportation, this guide is for you.
Cheap Domestic Flights for Day 1 CPT Students
The Best Flight Booking Time
According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report, the best time to book a domestic flight is 28 days in advance. This can save travelers up to 24% compared to those who book last-minute, within zero to six days of departure. Initially, prices are high when tickets are released about a year before the flight, gradually decreasing to their lowest point in the prime booking window. After this period, costs significantly increase for last-minute travel.
The Myth About Tuesday Afternoon Booking Hour
There was once a belief that domestic flight tickets were cheapest every Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 PM PDT. However, this is a myth. Modern flight pricing uses complex algorithms that update constantly. An analysis from 2022 found that tickets bought on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays were only 1.9% cheaper than those purchased on weekends over the past six years. Therefore, it’s best to book your ticket ahead of time but not necessarily on a Tuesday.
9 Cheap Domestic Flight Booking Sites
- Google Flights: Ideal for comparing prices across multiple airlines.
- Kiwi.com: Finds affordable routes by combining flights with other transport modes, using alternative airports, and connecting ultra-low-cost carriers.
- Skyscanner: Offers diverse options and alerts for price drops.
- Kayak: Features a price forecasting tool to decide the best booking time.
- Hopper: Predicts future flight prices and notifies you when to book.
- Skiplagged: Identifies cheaper tickets with layovers at your intended destination.
- Priceline: Provides low-cost but often non-refundable options.
- Momondo: Managed by Kayak, often shows the cheapest tickets.
- Going: Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights, offers many cheap tickets with membership, worth it for frequent travelers.
5 Flight Booking Tips for Day 1 CPT Students
- Incognito Mode: Use private browsing to prevent prices from increasing due to repeated searches.
- ChatGPT Plugin: Search for ChatGPT Kayak, install a chrome plugin, it will help you find cheaper tickets faster than ever.
- Flexible Dates: Be flexible with your travel dates and use tools to find the cheapest days to fly.
- Round Trips vs. One-Way: Sometimes booking two one-way flights can be cheaper than a round trip.
- Credit Card Points and Rewards: Popular travel rewards programs like AMEX and Chase Travel are excellent for booking long-distance flights and are very useful for F1 international students. However, don't overlook using your points for shorter trips if you have them. Another often underrated option is Capital One's travel rewards program.
3 Pitfalls to Avoid When Booking Domestic Flights
- Hidden Fees: Watch out for additional costs like baggage fees and seat selection charges.
- Layovers: Ensure layovers are manageable and avoid overly long or tight connections.
- Booking Too Early or Late: Prices fluctuate; booking too early or at the last minute can result in higher costs.
Additional Transportation Options for Day 1 CPT Students
- Buses and Trains: Consider Greyhound or Amtrak for shorter distances, which can be more economical and flexible.
- Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft can be useful for local travel from the airport to your destination.
3 Car Rental Tips for Day 1 CPT Students
- Check Insurance: Verify what insurance coverage you need, and consider using credit card benefits to save on insurance costs.
- Avoid Airport Locations: Renting from locations outside the airport can often be cheaper due to lower fees.
- Fill the Tank: Always return the car with a full tank to avoid high refueling charges.
By following these tips and using the recommended resources, Day 1 CPT students can travel economically to their on-site classes while minimizing expenses.
For Day 1 CPT students, maintaining full attendance is crucial for staying compliant with visa regulations. Missing classes can jeopardize your CPT status and academic standing. Always keep a clean record of attendance to avoid any complications with your program or immigration status. We recommend booking your ticket ahead of time to lock in the spots.
If you need to find travel companionship, consider joining our WhatsApp group and travel with your fellow Day 1 CPT classmates.
