Flights

Booking your travel is an exciting step, but it’s important to do it at the right time and with the right tools. Below are expert tips and resources tailored for international students and scholars.

 

Expedia, CheapOair, and OneTravel are great for finding deals on flights

Our pick for: Simplicity and value

Our top pick: We recommend CampusSIMs as the best overall option for most students and scholars. Their plans provide the best value, and we love the simplicity of the sign up process.

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When Should I Book?

Wait to book until your visa is approved.

We know it’s tempting to book early for the best deals, but if your visa is delayed or denied, most airlines will not offer a full refund. Make sure you:

  • Are fully admitted to a university
  • Receive your I-20 or DS-2019
  • Schedule and complete your visa interview
  • Receive your visa - Now you’re ready to purchase your ticket!!
  • Are fully admitted to a university
  • Receive your I-20 or DS-2019
  • Schedule and complete your visa interview
  • Receive your visa - Now you’re ready to purchase your ticket!!
flying airplane over white clouds
When Should I Book?

Wait to book until your visa is approved.

We know it’s tempting to book early for the best deals, but if your visa is delayed or denied, most airlines will not offer a full refund. Make sure you:

  • Are fully admitted to a university
  • Receive your I-20 or DS-2019
  • Schedule and complete your visa interview
  • Receive your visa - Now you’re ready to purchase your ticket!!
Best for: Bundling flights, hotels, and cars

Expedia is a trusted platform offering package deals and discounts when you book multiple services together.

4.8 Homebase rating

Expedia

✅ Large selection of airlines and routes
✅ Easy-to-use interface
✅ Potential discounts for bundling flights with hotels

❌ Prices aren’t always the absolute lowest
❌ Limited flexibility on some budget airline tickets

Best for: Budget fares and hidden deals

CheapOair pulls fares from various airlines, including budget carriers. You might find deals not shown on bigger sites—and they offer price matching.

4.6 Homebase rating

CheapOair

✅ Often lower prices than competitors
✅ Flexible booking options and 24/7 customer support
✅ Price match guarantee

❌ More likely to have additional fees for baggage and seat selection
❌ Connections on different airlines can be difficult if you’re checking bags

Best for: Flexibility and travel insurance

OneTravel offers low fares with flexible ticket options and add-ons like travel insurance.

4.5 Homebase rating

OneTravel

✅ Often features promo codes and flash sales
✅ Offers flexible fare options and travel insurance
✅ Good mix of budget and major airlines

❌ Not as well-known as Expedia, so fewer bundled travel options

Smart Travel Tips

Flying to the U.S. can be expensive, but these tips can help you save:

Many students and scholars plan to stay in the U.S. long-term, so unless you already know your return date (such as for a holiday break), a one-way ticket may offer more flexibility. However, one-way fares can sometimes be more expensive per flight, so compare both options carefully.

If you or your family have a credit card with travel rewards or frequent flyer miles, you may be able to use them to reduce the cost of your flight.

Ask your school which airports are closest and most affordable. But be careful: Avoid flying into airports that seem close on a map but are hours away or may have limited transportation, the U.S. is enormous.

As shown on your I-20 or DS-2019. Arriving before this period may result in denial of entry at the border.

If you plan to arrive before then, be sure to arrange temporary accommodations to avoid unnecessary stress and extra costs.

  • Book mid-week. Both booking and flying on Tuesday or Wednesday and at off-peak hours often come with lower fares.
  • Set flight alerts to track current flight prices
  • Book Early, but Not Too Early. Booking 2-4 months in advance often yields the best prices. 

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