Google's new updates make it easier to save money when you book a trip

Google is making it way easier for travelers with flexible schedules to save money.

The search giant announced today that it's updating both the Flight and Hotel search tools to make it easier for people to find deals.

Now, both tools offer you a chance to find cheaper alternatives by switching your departure and arrival dates by just a couple days. You'll also be able to automatically compare multiple airports and accommodations around your destination to help find the best deal.

This service isn't too far removed from the comparison tools you'll find on travel sites like Kayak, which aggregate multiple flight plans for every route — but the fact that it's been built directly into Google's search bar could save travel planners a few steps.

You'll also be able to access the new flights search feature easily by tapping on the "Dates" tab on the readout of an itinerary search result, then navigating through the menu to find the best price and date combo for your trip.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Hotel searches will get the same treatment, giving bookers a chance to track prices over time once they search for dates at a specific hotel.

You'll also be able to check out all of the airports within a predetermined range of your destination, and plot out different map points for your trip so you can plan your trip better. If you switch hotels or travel closer to another airport before flying out, for example, it'll be easier to determine where you should be leaving from.

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

The new flight insights are available on mobile now, and Google says the functionality will roll out to desktops later this year. Hopefully you have some flex days on your vacation schedule to take advantage of some of the savings the tools can find for your next trip.