YOU do not have to be a member of a frequent-flyer or travel-reward scheme to save money on flights.

The phenomenal popularity of so-called no-frills airlines has dramatically reduced the cost of flying in Europe and fierce competition for passengers means companies regularly offer discounted deals.

Recent research reveals that Easyjet and Ryanair, which often sells tickets “free” before taxes and charges, are the most searched-for travel companies on the internet.

Traditional airlines are fighting back, however, and budget airlines no longer necessarily offer the cheapest flights.

This month, British Airways slashed fares from London on more than 60 European short-haul routes.

A one-way trip from Gatwick to destinations such as Bordeaux, Barcelona and Venice now costs as little as £29, including all taxes.

The company also claims its cheap deals offer better value than comparable fares with Easyjet or Ryanair because passengers receive “frills” such as free food.

Martin George, BA’s commercial director, said: “We have slashed our one-way fares by up to 50% and will have more than 7m plane seats a year to more than 65 destinations, available at these prices.”

Other airlines offer special deals. Virgin Atlantic, for example, often gives discounts on Upper Class tickets purchased at least 42 days in advance.

Visiting a cheap flights website, such as travelocity.co.uk, opodo.co.uk or cheapflights.co.uk, can make it easier to find the best deal — although they omit most budget airlines from their searches.

Another option for those wanting to travel first or business class is to join a service such as Luxury Explorer. It will search the market for you and promises discounts of 25% or more.

But the best bargains are often available only to those who book months ahead.

James Hotson of the Civil Aviation Authority said: “Some airlines cut their fares nearer the departure date to fill the flights, while others work the opposite way. Budget airlines such as Easyjet tend to offer cheaper fares when they first issue tickets. Fares on the larger scheduled airlines, on the other hand, often drop a few months before departure.”

One potential downside of waiting for air fares to drop is that you may miss out — especially if you want to fly at a busy time. If you want to take the other approach, however, you will have to be prepared to plan well in advance.