12 Secrets to Getting Cheap Flights in Malaysia

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an adventurous trip to Gunung Merbabu, finding cheap flights in Malaysia is always a top priority. Airfare often takes up a big chunk of your travel budget, but with a few smart strategies, you can land great deals. Here’s a guide to mastering the art of finding cheap flights in Malaysia:

1. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

One of the easiest ways to save money on flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. Prices for flights can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of year, or even the hour of the day. Typically, flights are cheaper on weekdays, especially Tuesday and Wednesday. Avoid booking during school holidays, long weekends, and festive seasons such as Hari Raya or Chinese New Year, as prices surge during these periods.

2. Book in Advance (But Not Too Early)

While last-minute deals can sometimes appear, the general rule is to book your flight a few months ahead for the best prices. According to industry data, booking your flight about 6 to 8 weeks in advance tends to yield the best fares for international destinations. For domestic flights within Malaysia, booking 2 to 3 weeks in advance should be sufficient.

3. Set Up Price Alerts

Price alert tools can be your best friend when it comes to scoring cheap flights. By setting alerts on platforms like Skyscanner or Kayak, you’ll be notified when flight prices drop for your preferred route. This allows you to book at the lowest fare without constantly checking.

4. Take Advantage of Budget Airlines

Malaysia is a hub for budget airlines like AirAsia, Malindo Air, and Firefly. These carriers offer incredibly low fares, especially on regional flights within Southeast Asia. They may not provide the luxury of full-service airlines, but if you’re willing to compromise on comfort or in-flight meals, the savings can be substantial.

5. Use Incognito Mode When Searching for Flights

Flight prices can fluctuate based on your browsing history. Many airlines and travel websites use cookies to track your searches and may raise prices if they detect repeated interest in the same flight route. To avoid this, always search for flights in incognito or private browsing mode.

6. Consider Nearby Airports

If you’re flying internationally, check out alternative airports near your destination. For example, instead of flying directly into Singapore’s Changi Airport, consider landing at Johor Bahru (Senai Airport) and taking a bus or train to Singapore. Similarly, you could fly to nearby Indonesian cities and take a ferry to Johor or Penang.

7. Join Frequent Flyer Programs and Loyalty Clubs

Many airlines offer loyalty programs that allow you to accumulate points with every flight. These points can later be redeemed for discounts or free flights. Signing up for these programs is free and can lead to significant savings over time. Airlines like Malaysia Airlines have the Enrich program, while AirAsia has the BIG Loyalty Program, where you can earn and redeem points.

8. Travel During Off-Peak Times

Flying early in the morning or late at night can be a money-saver. Flights scheduled during odd hours tend to be cheaper because fewer people prefer to travel at those times. Similarly, traveling during Malaysia’s off-peak tourism months, such as the rainy season (November to February), can also mean cheaper fares.

9. Take Advantage of Credit Card Promotions

Many banks in Malaysia partner with airlines and travel platforms to offer exclusive flight discounts and rewards. Using the right credit card can give you cashback, free travel insurance, or even bonus air miles. Check out what promotions your bank is running before you book.

10. Check Out Travel Deal Websites

Travel deal websites like Traveloka, Agoda, and Expedia often offer competitive prices on flights and holiday packages. Occasionally, they run limited-time promotions that give significant discounts on flights or include perks like free luggage allowance.

11. Take Advantage of Malaysia Airlines’ Monthly Madness Sales

Malaysia Airlines often runs monthly promotions called “Monthly Madness” where they offer great discounts on both domestic and international routes. Sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on these promotions.

Conclusion: Smart Planning Leads to Big Savings

Getting cheap flights in Malaysia is not rocket science, but it does require a bit of strategy. With the right tools and flexibility, you can find incredible deals that will leave more room in your budget for exciting travel experiences. Whether you’re planning a hike up Gunung Merbabu or a beach escape to the Perhentian Islands, these tips can help you save big on your next flight!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When is the best time to book flights for the lowest fares in Malaysia?

The best time to book flights for the lowest fares is typically 6-8 weeks in advance for international flights and 2-3 weeks in advance for domestic flights. Avoid booking during peak travel seasons like school holidays or festive periods to get the best prices.

2. What are the cheapest days to fly?

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally the cheapest days to fly, while weekends and public holidays tend to have higher fares. Flexibility with your travel dates will give you the best chance to find cheaper flights.

3. How can I find the best flight deals in Malaysia?

Using flight comparison websites such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Traveloka helps you compare prices across different airlines. Additionally, setting up price alerts and being flexible with your travel dates are great strategies to find the best flight deals.

4. Are budget airlines reliable for travel in and out of Malaysia?

Yes, budget airlines such as AirAsia, Malindo Air, and Firefly are very reliable for travel in and out of Malaysia. They offer low-cost fares with basic services, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

5. Is it safe to use incognito mode while searching for flights?

Yes, using incognito mode when searching for flights is a safe practice. It prevents travel websites from tracking your search history and possibly inflating prices based on repeated searches for the same route.

6. Can I use my credit card rewards to get discounts on flights?

Absolutely! Many credit cards offer rewards points, air miles, or cashback that you can use towards flight purchases. Some cards are even partnered with airlines, offering exclusive deals and benefits for frequent travelers.

7. Should I fly to nearby airports to save money?

Yes, flying to nearby airports can be a cost-effective alternative, especially if they are well-connected by local transport. Just make sure to factor in the cost of transportation from the alternate airport to your final destination to ensure overall savings.

8. How often do airlines like AirAsia offer promotions?

AirAsia and other airlines frequently offer promotions throughout the year. Major sales, such as AirAsia’s “Big Sales,” can offer significant discounts, with tickets sometimes available for as low as RM1. Stay subscribed to newsletters and follow their social media channels to catch these deals.

9. Are there any hidden fees when booking flights with budget airlines?

Yes, budget airlines often charge additional fees for services such as checked luggage, in-flight meals, or seat selection. Be sure to review the total cost of your flight, including any optional add-ons, before booking to avoid surprises.

10. How can I save more on last-minute flights?

For last-minute flights, use comparison websites, consider budget airlines, and check out flash sales. Airlines often offer unsold seats at discounted rates close to the departure date, so keep an eye on those deals as well.