When it comes to booking a flight, knowing the best websites to use can save you a bundle of money. And if you're a student, finding websites that offer special deals for young travelers is a top priority.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to find the best prices. That's why we've compiled the ultimate list of the best websites for student discounts on flights, so you can save time and money when booking your next trip.
StudentUniverse
One of the top websites for student discounts on flights is StudentUniverse. They offer flights, hotels, and tours exclusively for students. While you do need to become a member to access their exclusive discounts, membership is free. However, if you prefer not to join, you can still book as a guest.
StudentUniverse also provides special promo codes on their site, regardless of your student status. You can even set up an alert to track price changes for your selected itinerary.
Many deals require you to log in to be eligible. Image Credit: StudentUniverse
Pros:
- Plentiful promo codes available on the website
Cons:
- Booking fees may apply
- Some deals are only valid for students aged 16 to 34
Bottom Line: StudentUniverse offers discounted flights to students. Keep an eye out for promo codes to save some extra money.
CheapOair
Did you know that CheapOair has a special section dedicated to student travel? By selecting "More" in the top menu bar, then "Student Travel," you can access exclusive student deals on their website.
While CheapOair offers good sorting and filtering features, it's important to watch out for extra fees. They have service fees of up to $35 on most flights, and additional post-ticketing fees for things like cancellations and changes.
Hot Tip: To avoid cancellation fees, consider purchasing a "support package" offered by CheapOair.
CheapOair has a special section dedicated to student travel. Image Credit: CheapOair
Pros:
- Promo codes available for flight discounts or service fees
Cons:
- Service fees apply to most tickets
- Cancellation fees unless you purchase a support package
Hot Tip: For more information, check out our detailed guide to CheapOair.
OneTravel
OneTravel is another online travel agency that offers flights, hotels, and vacation packages. They have a dedicated student deals section on their website, accessible through "More > Travel by Theme > Student Travel."
Unfortunately, we didn't find any extra student discounts or deals when searching for flights through their student section. While OneTravel has good search capabilities, it doesn't stand out as unique. Additional fees may apply, including a service fee of up to $35 on most economy flights, and additional fees for changes or cancellations.
OneTravel has a dedicated student section. Image Credit: OneTravel
Pros:
- No requirements for using the student section
- Promo codes are offered
Cons:
- Booking fees ranging from $35 to $150 per ticket
- Student section doesn't offer significant discounts compared to the rest of the website
SmartFares
SmartFares is a lesser-known online travel agency that claims to offer special student fares. However, these fares are often the same as those offered in the non-student section of the website, with occasional coupon codes available.
To access lower fares with SmartFares, you may need to call in and speak to a representative. Keep in mind that there may be additional fees for a flexible ticket, seat selection, and post-purchase customer service. Service fees on flights can range from $30 to $100.
SmartFares has a dedicated student section that often provides coupon codes. Image Credit: SmartFares
Pros:
- Free cancellation within 24 hours
Cons:
- Service fees apply to every ticket
- Additional fees for seat selection and post-purchase customer service
Airline-Specific Student Discounts
Many airlines also offer exclusive discounts and perks for students. These programs often have specific requirements and may require proof of student status. Here are some of the airlines that offer student discounts:
- Cathay Pacific: Fare discounts, extra baggage allowance, and free ticket changes with promo codes HKSTUDENT or HKSTUPLUS.
- Emirates: Up to 10% off fares booked with promo code STUDENT, plus extra baggage allowance and flexible options for flight changes.
- Etihad: Discounts with promo code STU10, additional checked bag allowance, and free date changes.
- KLM: Discounted student tickets for university travel abroad, 2 checked bags, and flexible change options.
- Lufthansa: Exclusive program for students called Generation Fly, with guaranteed lowest prices on Lufthansa flights and 1 free checked bag.
- Qatar Airways: Qatar Student Club offers discounted fares, extra baggage allowance, flexibility in date changes, complimentary Wi-Fi, a student companion pass, and a Privilege Club tier upgrade as a graduation gift.
- Singapore Airlines: Special student privileges for verified student accounts, including discounted airfare, additional baggage allowance, and fee waivers for booking changes.
- SriLankan Airlines: 10-15% cash-back on tickets, extra baggage allowance, and discounts on tickets purchased through March 31, 2023.
- Turkish Airlines: Miles&Smiles student account offers flight discounts, 1 free ticket change, lower bag fees, more earned miles, and welcome bonus miles.
- United Airlines: Discounted fares for 18-22-year-olds by selecting "Discounted travel (18-22)" during the booking process.
- Virgin Atlantic: Discounts available through StudentBeans, with savings per flight.
Price Comparisons
While student-focused websites offer great deals, it's always worth comparing prices on other platforms. We've compared prices on Kayak, a metasearch engine, for two examples:
- Roundtrip flight from New York to London
- Roundtrip flight from Chicago to Miami
Here's how the websites stack up in terms of cost alone:
| Website | Example #1 Price | Example #2 Price |
|---|---|---|
| CheapOair | $673.99 | $303.78 |
| Generation Fly | $1,082.27 | N/A |
| Kayak | $570.29 | $281.18 |
| OneTravel | $899.99 | $301.78 |
| SmartFares | $630.77 | $312.18 |
| StudentUniverse | $895.47 | $291.18 |
In both examples, Kayak had the lowest prices. While this may not always be the case, it's important for students to explore non-student-focused travel agencies and websites to find the best deals.
Final Thoughts
With so many online travel agencies available, it can be overwhelming to know where to find the best prices for student flights. The key is to shop around and compare prices. Start by checking websites that offer special student fares and coupon codes, but don't forget to consider other platforms as well.
Remember, the price is the most important factor for most students, so finding the best deal is key. Happy travels, and have a great time exploring the world on a student budget!
If you're looking to save money on accommodations as well, check out our guide to the best websites for student discounts on hostels and hotels.
