The Best Times to Book Flights for Maximum Savings
Scoring a good deal on flights can feel like a gamble, but timing your booking right can make all the difference. While airfare pricing isn’t an exact science, travel data and industry trends have revealed patterns that can help you save money—without compromising on convenience or flexibility. Here’s what to know before you click “book.”
Book Domestic Flights Around 1–3 Months in Advance
For most domestic trips, the sweet spot for savings is between one and three months ahead of your departure date. Booking too early can mean higher prices, as airlines hold out for higher-spending customers.
Book International Flights 2–8 Months in Advance
If you’re traveling abroad, especially to Europe or Asia, start looking two to eight months ahead. Popular routes and peak travel seasons (like summer or the winter holidays) may require even more lead time. Tools like Google Flights and Hopper can help track when prices drop.
Fly Midweek for Lower Fares
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally the cheapest days to fly, especially for domestic routes. Avoid flying on Sundays or Fridays when prices tend to spike due to business and leisure travelers alike.
Book on Tuesdays or Sundays for the Best Deals
The myth about Tuesday being the best day to book isn’t entirely wrong. According to airfare tracking tools like Hopper, many airlines launch sales early in the week, and Sunday has also emerged as a strong contender for booking lower fares. Use price tracking tools to monitor fluctuations before committing.
Be Flexible with Airports and Dates
Small adjustments—like flying into or out of a nearby airport, or shifting your travel dates by a day or two—can often result in major savings. Use platforms like Skyscanner or Kayak with flexible date options to explore lower-cost combinations.
Consider Using Gift Cards or Cashback Apps
For added savings, some travelers choose to buy airline or travel platform gift cards with cashback using apps like Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta. This allows you to save before the transaction even hits your travel budget.
Avoid Booking at the Last Minute (Except These Cases)
Last-minute fares are typically higher, especially on popular routes. However, airlines may discount unsold seats 1–2 weeks before departure for off-peak destinations or red-eye flights. If you’re flexible and traveling solo, it may be worth a look—but it’s not a reliable savings strategy.
Use Airline Fare Alerts and Trackers
Sign up for alerts from Scott’s Cheap Flights or the Google Flights price tracking tool to get notified when fares drop. This passive strategy lets the deal come to you.
Pay Attention to Refundability and Flex Policies
With travel conditions always changing, flexibility matters. Even if you pay slightly more upfront, booking a refundable or changeable ticket could save you money in the long run if plans shift.
Booking at the right time doesn’t just save money—it gives you peace of mind. With a little research and the right tools, you’ll be well on your way to flying smarter and spending less.
