How to Use the “Anywhere” Feature on Google Flights

 

When it comes to booking travel, I don’t always start with a specific destination in mind—I start with the deals. That’s why Google Flights is my absolute favorite tool for finding the cheapest airfare. Instead of choosing a location first and then stressing over expensive ticket prices, I let the flight prices guide me to where I’m going next.

One of the best features on Google Flights is the “Explore” or “Anywhere” option, which lets you browse cheap flights to destinations around the world based on your travel dates. I often hop on just to explore possibilities, checking out where the best deals are and letting that inspire my next adventure. If a place catches my eye and the airfare is budget-friendly—bam, that’s my next trip.

I’ve personally scored some amazing deals this way, and I’m sharing this strategy with you in hopes that it helps you do the same.

Also, using flexible dates can save you even more. Here’s how to do it step by step:

✅ Step 1: Go to Google Flights

Head to Google Flights on your browser.


✅ Step 2: Leave the Destination Blank

In the search bar, type in your departure city (e.g., “New York”), but leave the destination blank or type “Anywhere.” Google will automatically suggest a wide range of locations you can fly to—organized by price.


✅ Step 3: Choose Your Dates

Click on the date field, and you’ll see a calendar view with prices displayed for each day.

  • To search flexible dates: Click “Flexible dates” at the bottom of the calendar.
  • Choose options like:
    • A weekend
    • 1-week trip
    • 2-week trip
  • Select the month or time of year you’d like to travel.

Google will show you the best deals for your selected timeframe.


✅ Step 4: Browse by Region or Interest (Optional)

If you want to narrow it down further:

  • Select a region (e.g., “Caribbean” or “Europe”)
  • Use filters such as:
    • Flight duration
    • Airlines
    • Stops (nonstop, 1-stop)
    • Bags included
    • Travel interests (beaches, cities, outdoor)

✅ Step 5: Compare Prices and Book

Once you find a destination that fits your budget, click on it to see available flights. You can sort by:

  • Price
  • Flight duration
  • Time of day

Then choose your preferred option and book directly through the airline or travel site.


🧳 Pro Tips:

  • Use “Explore” to view deals on a map.
  • Try nearby airports for better deals.
  • Turn on price tracking for alerts on flight drops.