Guide to the Cheapest Flight Booking Sites for Nigerian Travelers

Author

Jochebed Gomos

Created

February 28, 2025February 28, 2025

Updated

February 28, 2025February 28, 2025

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11 min

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Categories: Education, Travel

Traveling is an exciting experience, but let’s be real—flights can be expensive, especially for Nigerians. Whether you’re planning a business trip, a family vacation, or just want to visit loved ones abroad, finding affordable flights is a top priority. Thankfully, the internet is filled with flight booking sites that promise the best deals. But which ones actually deliver?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the cheapest flight booking sites for Nigerian travelers. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each platform, share tips on how to snag the best deals, and provide updated information to help you save money on your next trip. Let’s dive in!

Why Finding Cheap Flights Matters for Nigerians

As a Nigerian, you know how important it is to stretch your naira. With the rising cost of living and fluctuating exchange rates, every penny saved counts. Whether you’re traveling for work, school, or leisure, finding affordable flights can make a huge difference in your budget.

But here’s the thing: not all flight booking sites are created equal. Some platforms are better suited for Nigerian travelers, offering local payment options, competitive prices, and excellent customer service. Others might look cheap at first glance but end up costing you more in hidden fees.

That’s why we’ve done the research for you. We’ve scoured the web, browsed through X (formerly Twitter) posts, and tested multiple platforms to bring you the most reliable and affordable flight booking sites for Nigerians.

Top Cheapest Flight Booking Sites for Nigerian Travelers

1. Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a global favorite, and for good reason. It’s a metasearch engine that compares prices from airlines, travel agencies, and other booking sites to find the best deals.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Easy to use and navigate.
Offers flexible date searches, so you can find the cheapest days to fly.
Supports local currency (NGN) for hassle-free bookings.

Tips for Using Skyscanner:

Use the “Whole Month” search feature to compare prices across different dates.
Set up price alerts to get notified when fares drop.

2. Google Flights

Google Flights is another powerful tool for finding affordable flights. It’s fast, reliable, and integrates seamlessly with other Google services.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Instant search results with a clean interface.
Shows price trends and predicts whether fares will rise or drop.
Allows you to filter flights by airline, stops, and duration.

Tips for Using Google Flights:

Use the “Explore” feature to discover cheap destinations from your departure city.
Book directly with airlines to avoid third-party fees.

3. Travelstart

Travelstart is a popular platform in Africa, and it’s a great option for Nigerian travelers. It offers a wide range of flights, hotels, and car rentals.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Localized payment options, including bank transfers and debit cards.
Excellent customer support tailored to African travelers.
Frequent discounts and promotions.

Tips for Using Travelstart:

Sign up for their newsletter to receive exclusive deals.
Book early to take advantage of lower prices.

4. Wakanow

Wakanow is Nigeria’s leading online travel agency, and it’s a go-to platform for many Nigerians.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Tailored specifically for Nigerian travelers.
Offers flight + hotel packages for additional savings.
Accepts local payment methods, including Paystack and Flutterwave.

Tips for Using Wakanow:

Check their “Deals” section for discounted flights.
Use their mobile app for convenient bookings on the go.

5. CheapOair

CheapOair lives up to its name by offering some of the cheapest flights online. It’s a global platform that caters to travelers worldwide.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Competitive prices and frequent discounts.
24/7 customer support.
Offers last-minute deals for spontaneous travelers.

Tips for Using CheapOair:

Compare prices with other platforms before booking.
Look out for promo codes to save even more.

6. Kiwi.com

Kiwi.com is known for its innovative approach to flight bookings. It combines flights from different airlines to create cheaper itineraries.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Great for finding unconventional routes at lower prices.
Offers a “Guarantee” feature for added peace of mind.
Supports multiple currencies, including NGN.

Tips for Using Kiwi.com:

Be flexible with your travel dates and routes.
Read the terms and conditions carefully, especially for multi-airline bookings.

7. Jumia Travel

Jumia Travel is another Nigerian-based platform that offers affordable flights and travel packages.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Localized services and payment options.
Regular flash sales and discounts.
User-friendly interface.

Tips for Using Jumia Travel:

Follow their social media pages for exclusive deals.
Book during off-peak seasons for lower prices.

8. Expedia

Expedia is a global travel platform that offers flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. It’s a great option for Nigerians looking for bundled deals.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Frequent discounts and bundle deals (flight + hotel).
Rewards program where you earn points for future bookings.
Accepts international payment methods, including Nigerian debit cards.

Tips for Using Expedia:

Bundle your flight and hotel for additional savings.
Check their “Deals” section for limited-time offers.

9. Kayak

Kayak is another metasearch engine that compares prices from hundreds of travel sites. It’s user-friendly and offers a range of filters to customize your search.

Why Nigerians Love It:

“Price Forecast” feature predicts whether fares will rise or drop.
Flexible date search for finding the cheapest travel dates.
Supports multiple currencies, including NGN.

Tips for Using Kayak:

Use the “Explore” tool to find cheap destinations from your departure city.
Set up price alerts to monitor fare changes.

10. Trip.com

Trip.com is a global travel platform that offers competitive prices on flights, hotels, and train tickets. It’s gaining popularity among Nigerian travelers.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Affordable flight options with transparent pricing.
24/7 customer support.
Regular discounts and promo codes.

Tips for Using Trip.com:

Look for promo codes on their website or social media pages.
Book during sales events for extra savings.

11. Air Peace Travel Portal

Air Peace, Nigeria’s leading airline, has its own travel portal for booking flights. It’s a great option for domestic and regional travel.

Why Nigerians Love It:

Competitive prices for domestic and West African routes.
No third-party fees since you’re booking directly with the airline.
Frequent promotions for loyal customers.

Tips for Using Air Peace Travel Portal:

Sign up for their loyalty program to earn rewards.
Book early to secure lower prices, especially during peak travel seasons.

How to Pay for Flights as a Nigerian Traveler

One of the biggest challenges Nigerian travelers face is payment. Many international platforms don’t accept Nigerian debit cards, or they charge high transaction fees. Here’s how to navigate payment options:

Use Local Platforms: Platforms like Wakanow, Travelstart, and Jumia Travel accept local payment methods, including bank transfers and Nigerian debit cards.
International Debit/Credit Cards: If you have an international debit or credit card (e.g., Visa or Mastercard), you can use it on global platforms like Skyscanner, Expedia, and Kayak.
Paystack and Flutterwave: Some platforms integrate with Nigerian payment gateways like Paystack and Flutterwave, making it easier to pay in naira.
Virtual Dollar Cards: If you don’t have an international card, consider getting a virtual dollar card from providers like GTB Naira Card, Zenith Bank Virtual Card, or Chipper Cash.
Cryptocurrency: Some platforms, like Kiwi.com, accept cryptocurrency as a payment method.

Best Time to Book Flights for Nigerian Travelers

Timing is everything when it comes to booking cheap flights. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to book:

Domestic Flights: Book at least 1-2 months in advance for the best prices. Last-minute bookings can be expensive, especially during holidays like Christmas and Easter.
International Flights: For long-haul flights, book 3-6 months in advance. Prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches.
Off-Peak Seasons: Traveling during off-peak seasons (e.g., May-June or September-October) can save you money. Avoid peak travel periods like December and August.
Midweek Bookings: Flights are often cheaper when booked on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Avoid booking on weekends when prices are higher.

Hidden Fees to Watch Out For

When booking flights, always read the fine print to avoid hidden fees. Here are some common charges to look out for:

Baggage Fees: Some airlines charge extra for checked luggage or even carry-on bags. Check the baggage policy before booking.
Seat Selection Fees: Many airlines charge extra for selecting your seat in advance.
Booking Fees: Some platforms add service fees during checkout. Compare prices across multiple platforms to avoid overpaying.
Currency Conversion Fees: If you’re paying in a foreign currency, your bank may charge a conversion fee. Use platforms that support NGN to avoid this.

How to Handle Flight Cancellations and Delays

Flight cancellations and delays are common, especially during peak travel seasons. Here’s how to protect yourself:

Book with Reputable Platforms: Use trusted platforms like Skyscanner, Wakanow, or Google Flights to minimize the risk of cancellations.
Purchase Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can cover flight cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. Some platforms offer insurance during checkout.
Know Your Rights: If your flight is canceled or delayed, you may be entitled to compensation or a refund. Check the airline’s policy and contact customer service.
Stay Informed: Sign up for flight alerts to stay updated on any changes to your itinerary.

Top Destinations for Nigerian Travelers and Average Flight Prices

Here’s a quick overview of popular destinations for Nigerian travelers and their average flight prices (as of 2025):

Lagos to London: ₦300,000 – ₦500,000 (round trip).
Lagos to Dubai: ₦250,000 – ₦400,000 (round trip).
Lagos to New York: ₦400,000 – ₦600,000 (round trip).
Lagos to Johannesburg: ₦150,000 – ₦250,000 (round trip).
Lagos to Accra: ₦70,000 – ₦120,000 (round trip).

Note: Prices vary depending on the season, airline, and booking platform.

FAQs About Flight Booking for Nigerian Travelers

1. Which platform is the cheapest for Nigerian travelers?

It depends on your destination and travel dates. Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Wakanow are great options for finding affordable flights.

2. Can I pay for flights in naira?

Yes, platforms like Wakanow, Travelstart, and Jumia Travel accept naira payments.

3. How can I avoid hidden fees?

Always read the fine print and compare prices across multiple platforms before booking.

4. What’s the best time to book flights?

Book at least 2-3 months in advance and avoid peak travel seasons like December.

5. Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is recommended, especially for international trips. It can cover flight cancellations, delays, and medical emergencies.

Final Thoughts

Finding cheap flights as a Nigerian traveler doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right platforms, tools, and strategies, you can save thousands of naira on your next trip. Whether you’re traveling locally or internationally, this guide has everything you need to make informed decisions and get the best deals.