How To Find Cheap Flights to Costa Rica

Flights are often the biggest expense when planning a trip to Costa Rica, but they don’t have to be! With the right tools, a savvy mindset, and some smart strategies, you can save significantly.

The challenge lies in the complexity of airfare pricing, which changes minute by minute due to sophisticated algorithms.

To help you out, we’ve gathered the best strategies for finding cheap flights specifically to Costa Rica. Let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to affordable airfare for your next Costa Rican adventure!

6 Tips to Find Cheap Flights to Costa Rica

We’ve planned over 3,500 Costa Rica vacations, so we know a thing or two about scoring cheap airfare. Here are our top tips:

1. Get Ahead of Demand and Book Early

Let’s kick things off with what might just be the most important tip on this list: Book your flights to Costa Rica early, especially if you plan to visit during the December holidays and high season! 

Waiting until the last minute can result in skyrocketing prices and limited options, but planning ahead puts you in control. To get the best deal, book your flight several months in advance. This not only ensures you get a good price but also secures your spot during a busy travel period.

Pro tip: Most hotels in Costa Rica have fewer than 40 rooms, and the best ones fill up quickly. By planning and booking early, you not only lock in the best flight prices but also ensure you get a spot at the best hotels around the country. This forward-thinking approach will make your Costa Rican holiday truly unforgettable — and save you money!

Need help planning the perfect Costa Rica vacation? Our itineraries are 100% customizable and include DTA-exclusive perks. Get in touch today to learn more!

 2. Use Going.com

Next up is one of our favorite tools for finding cheap flights to Costa Rica (and around the world!): Going.com. 

With a handy mobile app and a free trial to get started, Going.com sends email alerts and booking links when flight prices drop, so you can grab the best deals while they’re hot. We love using this tool because it simplifies the search process, saving both time and money.

3. Consider Booking Separate Legs

Booking a round-trip ticket to Costa Rica isn’t always the cheapest option. Instead, look into booking two one-way tickets with different airlines. This method, known as “split ticketing,” can lead to significant savings. For example, you might find a cheaper outbound flight to Costa Rica with one airline and a cheaper return flight home with another. While it might take a bit more time to coordinate, the savings can be worth it. 

Just be sure to have proof of your ongoing flight out of Costa Rica handy (Proof of Exit), as you’ll likely be asked to show it by your airline or at security. You’ll also want to ensure your baggage allowances are consistent across both airlines to avoid extra fees and complications.

Need help planning the perfect Costa Rica vacation for you? We can help. Get in touch today.

4. Fly from Major Hubs

Flying from a major international hub can significantly reduce your flight cost. If you live near or can travel to a major airport like Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), or New York (JFK), you’re likely to find better deals. These airports have more flights to Costa Rica, which increases competition and lowers prices. 

Our best tip? Compare prices from different nearby airports to see which offers the best deal. Just be sure to factor in additional expenses like Ubers, parking, or public transportation, as these costs can affect the overall price of flying out of different airports.

5. Use Google Flights to Compare Days

You might have heard this before, but it’s true…

Being flexible with your travel dates can often lead to significant savings! Google Flights is one of the easiest tools to find the best flight deals across a range of dates. It lets you compare prices using the calendar view, making it simple to spot the most affordable travel options. With just a few clicks, you can see which days offer the best rates, helping you plan your trip more economically.

6. Travel During the Green Season

Costa Rica’s green season, which runs from May to November, is often overlooked by travelers. However, for many of our clients, the rainy season is their favorite time of year to visit Costa Rica! 

Flights and accommodations are cheaper, and there is more availability. While it’s true that this season sees more rain, it usually comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for activities and exploration. Plus, the landscape is lush and vibrant, providing a different but equally beautiful experience of Costa Rica.

Plan ahead and use smart strategies like booking early, using tools like Going.com, and being flexible with your travel dates to secure the best flight deals to Costa Rica. By following these tips, you can save money and ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.

Need help planning the perfect Costa Rica vacation for you? We can help. Get in touch today.