Here’s a breakdown of the top websites for finding affordable flights, based on features, rewards, and unique benefits:

1. Google Flights

Why it’s great:
- Fast and user-friendly: Search results appear instantly with customizable filters for price, airlines, stops, and more.
- Explore feature: Check flexible dates or use the map to view prices for various destinations over time.
- Direct links: Connects you to airlines or online travel agencies for booking.

Drawbacks:
- May not always display the cheapest prices, especially for international flights.

2. Kayak

Why it’s great:
- Comprehensive search: Pulls deals from hundreds of booking sites.
- Flexible date search: View options for several days in a single search.
- Sometimes finds better deals than Google Flights.

Example: A flight from Los Angeles to Barcelona found cheaper ($472) on Kayak vs. Google Flights ($550).

3. Expedia

Why it’s great:
- Rewards program: Earn OneKeyCash (0.2%) on flights, plus credits toward One Key elite status.
- Bundling discounts: Save up to 30% when booking flights and hotels together.
- Additional perks: Price drop protection and exclusive hotel savings for elite members.

4. Capital One Travel

Why it’s great:
- Cardholder benefits:
- 5x miles on flight bookings for Venture X cardholders.
- Up to $300 travel credit yearly for Venture X users.
- Hopper integration: Tracks flight price trends and offers up to $50 credits if prices drop after booking.

5. Kiwi

Why it’s great:
- Creative itineraries: Combines flights, buses, and trains to create the cheapest route.
- Example: A flight from Phoenix to Tokyo booked as separate tickets reduced the price from $1,353 to $789.

Caution:
- Risk of separate tickets: If a delay causes a missed connection, rebooking isn’t guaranteed.

6. BookWithMatrix

Why it’s great:
- Ultra-customizable: Pulls itineraries from ITA Matrix, a powerful flight search tool for complex trips.
- Convenient links: Provides booking links to airlines or online travel agencies.

Additional Tips

• Maximize rewards: Use travel credit cards like Capital One Venture X or airline-specific cards for additional benefits like lounge access or waived baggage fees.
• Flexibility saves: If you’re flexible with dates and destinations, tools like Google Flights’ Explore feature and Kiwi can uncover substantial savings.

Final Thoughts

There’s no universal “best” site for booking flights. Your choice depends on your travel goals:
- For simplicity, Google Flights is ideal.
- For better deals, try Kayak or Kiwi.
- For rewards and perks, consider Capital One Travel or Expedia.

Happy travels!

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