Looking for last minute flights Toronto options? Whether you’re traveling for a spontaneous vacation, urgent business meeting, or a family emergency, finding a budget-friendly flight at the eleventh hour can feel impossible. But don’t worry—Get Airline has you covered with the ultimate guide to scoring last minute flights to and from Toronto.
In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from how to find deals quickly, the best times to book, apps to use, and the top airlines that offer cheap last minute flights to Toronto.
Why People Search for Last Minute Flights to Toronto
Toronto is Canada’s largest city, a bustling hub for business, tourism, and cultural events. People often need last minute flights to Toronto for:
- Sudden business trips
- Family emergencies
- Spontaneous getaways
- Event attendance (concerts, conferences, etc.)
- Missed flights or cancellations
Understanding the reason helps determine what kind of fare and flexibility you’ll need.
Best Strategies for Booking Last Minute Flights to Toronto
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates and Times
Being open to different days and times can significantly reduce costs. Flights late at night or early in the morning tend to be cheaper. Flying mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) usually results in better pricing than weekends.
Use Multiple Travel Search Engines
Instead of relying on one site, compare fares across multiple platforms like:
- Google Flights
- Skyscanner
- Kayak
- Momondo
- Expedia
These platforms aggregate deals from various airlines and can show you the cheapest available flights to Toronto in real time.
Check Nearby Airports
While Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is the main hub, you might find cheaper flights landing at:
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
- Hamilton International Airport (YHM)
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) — if you’re okay with a cross-border trip
Set Fare Alerts
Even if you’re booking last minute, setting alerts for sudden drops in ticket prices can help you grab a deal when it becomes available. Apps like Hopper and Skyscanner offer this feature.
Look for One-Way Deals
Sometimes booking two one-way tickets with different airlines can be cheaper than a round-trip ticket. This also gives you more flexibility with return dates.
Best Airlines for Last Minute Flights to Toronto
Some airlines are known for offering better last minute deals. If you’re flying to Toronto, consider the following carriers:
Air Canada
Canada’s flagship airline offers frequent flights to Toronto and sometimes releases last minute seats at discounted rates.
WestJet
Another major Canadian carrier that often provides competitive pricing for spontaneous travelers.
Flair Airlines & Lynx Air
These ultra-low-cost carriers are ideal for budget-conscious travelers. They regularly offer flash sales and last minute promo fares.
American Airlines, Delta, and United
If you’re flying from the U.S., these airlines have multiple daily flights to Toronto and sometimes open up discounted seats within 48-72 hours of departure.
Apps and Tools to Find Last Minute Flights to Toronto
Hopper
This app predicts the best time to book flights and sends push notifications for price drops.
Skyscanner “Everywhere” Feature
If your main concern is price, you can search from your location to “Everywhere” and see if Toronto shows up in the affordable options.
Google Flights Explore Map
A great way to compare prices from your departure city to Toronto over a flexible calendar.
Airline Newsletters & Twitter Accounts
Some airlines tweet out last minute sales or offer deals exclusively through email subscribers.
Tips for Scoring Cheap Last Minute Flights to Toronto
- Book directly with the airline: Once you find a deal on a third-party site, check the airline’s own website. They sometimes offer even lower prices or better seat options.
- Use points or miles: If you have airline miles or credit card points, now is the time to use them.
- Travel solo if possible: Solo bookings can sometimes snag the last remaining seat at a discount.
- Use Incognito Mode: When searching for flights, use private browsing to prevent prices from increasing due to repeated searches.
When to Book Last Minute Flights to Toronto
Typically, the best time to find a deal is 2–3 days before departure. However, airlines sometimes release “rescue fares” 24 hours before takeoff to fill empty seats.
Early week (Monday to Wednesday) is generally better for both booking and flying, as prices spike around weekends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Last Minute
Ignoring Baggage Fees
Budget carriers may offer low base fares, but luggage fees can turn a great deal into a pricey one. Always check the total cost.
Not Checking Alternate Airports
You might save a lot just by flying into a smaller or nearby airport.
Waiting Too Long
Yes, prices sometimes drop, but waiting too long could mean missing your chance entirely.
Overlooking Travel Requirements
Make sure you meet visa, COVID-19 regulations, or any other entry requirements if flying internationally.
Real-World Example: How One Traveler Saved $300 on a Last Minute Toronto Flight
Jane from Vancouver had to fly to Toronto for a last-minute job interview. Initially, all flights were over $800. Here’s what she did:
- Searched using Google Flights in incognito mode
- Opted for a one-way ticket
- Chose a red-eye flight
- Flew into Billy Bishop instead of Pearson
- Final cost: $470. A $330 savings just by using smart booking tactics.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Find Last Minute Flights to Toronto
Finding last minute flights Toronto doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With the right tools, flexibility, and strategies, you can secure a great deal—even at the very last second.
At Get Airline, we’re dedicated to helping travelers like you find the best flight options without breaking the bank. Bookmark our blog and stay updated for more travel hacks and insider tips.
FAQ’S
Q: Are last minute flights cheaper or more expensive?
A: It depends. While prices often rise as the departure date nears, some airlines lower fares to fill empty seats last minute.
Q: Can I get last minute flights to Toronto using travel points?
A: Yes! Many airlines allow last minute bookings with points or miles, though availability may vary.
Q: Which days are cheapest to fly last minute to Toronto?
A: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the least expensive.
Q: Are budget airlines reliable for last minute travel?
A: Generally, yes. But always read reviews and understand what’s included in your fare.

John Edward is an avid airline enthusiast and passionate blogger dedicated to sharing his love for aviation with others. With extensive airline industry knowledge, John’s insightful blog posts cover various topics, from airline reviews and travel tips to industry news and updates. His engaging writing style and deep understanding of aviation make his blog a go-to resource for travelers and enthusiasts.