Cheap Flights from Houston to Detroit | Score the Best Deals

Are you looking to fly from Houston to Detroit without breaking the bank? You've come to the right place! Booking a cheap flight between these two major cities is totally doable if you know where to look and how to search strategically. I was hoping you could keep reading for my tips on scoring the absolute best deals on flights departing from Houston and arriving in the Motor City of Detroit!

Be Flexible with Travel Dates

The number one thing you can do to get a cheap flight is to be flexible with your travel dates. Flying midweek on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday is generally cheaper than departing on weekends. If your schedule allows, consider flying out on off-peak days and times.

Avoid booking last-minute flights, as those tend to be the most expensive. Give yourself a few weeks' notice for the best fares. And remember to compare the cost of flying a day before or after your preferred travel dates. If flying a day earlier or later saves you $100 or more, it could be worth it!

Leverage flight search engines.

For the most comprehensive range of flight options and easy date comparisons, turn to flight aggregator search engines like Kayak, Google Flights, or Skiplagged. These sites compile inventory and prices from airlines and online travel agencies, allowing you to enter your route and see a comprehensive list of available nonstops, one-stops, and other itineraries.

I especially love the price graph calendars that let you visualize the cheapest/most expensive dates to fly at a glance. Set up price alerts, too, so you're notified if fares drop for your chosen dates.

Be open to nearby airports.

When searching for Houston to Detroit flights, limit yourself to more than Houston's Bush Airport and Detroit Metro Airport. Houston has two other airports, William P. Hobby Airport, and Ellington Field, which may offer cheaper fares worth checking out.

Likewise, airports close to Detroit, like Flint's Bishop Airport or Toledo Express Airport, could have lower fares. Expand your airport search radius for maximum savings opportunities!

Take advantage of budget airlines

Major domestic budget carriers Southwest, Frontier, Spirit, and Allegiant all operate flights between Houston and Detroit. Their no-frills approach results in cheaper base fares that giant network airlines can only sometimes match.

Just know that budget airlines often nickel-and-dime you for extras like seat selection, bags, snacks, etc. But if you pack light and are okay with essential seat assignments, you can score serious deals!

Watch for airfare sales

Keep an eye out for specials and sales offered by both budget and full-service airlines for Houston to Detroit routes. Seasonal sales around holidays like Christmas or summer are standard. Sign up for airline email newsletters so cheap flight deals land directly in your inbox!

Flash sales and mistake fares are short but sweet opportunities to snag significant discounts, too. These can sell out in the blink of an eye, though, so you have to act fast if interested.

Use miles or points.

If you have a stash of airline miles or credit card points, now could be the time to cash some in for your next Houston to Detroit flight. Most programs allow you to search for award availability online and book flights for free or very cheap.

Mileage redemptions generally start at 12,500 miles one-way for economy-class tickets between Houston and Detroit. Just compare cash and points pricing to get the best value from your rewards.

Finding a cheap flight from Houston to Detroit is definitely doable when you're a savvy traveler. Follow these tips to keep airfare costs down and have a fantastic trip to the Motor City. Let me know if you have any other questions about scoring deals on Houston to Detroit flights! Safe travels!