Finding cheaper flights often depends on booking on the right days and times. This article explores the best times to book flights, helping you secure lower fares and make the most of your travel budget.

1. Book Flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays

Historically, mid-week days like Tuesday and Wednesday are considered the best for booking cheaper flights. Many airlines release deals on Monday nights, so prices may drop by Tuesday or Wednesday morning as competitors try to match each other’s offers.

• How it works: Book your flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday for the highest chance of finding lower fares due to these market adjustments.

2. Travel on Off-Peak Days for Lower Prices

Flying on less popular travel days can help you save. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and sometimes Saturdays are typically the cheapest days to fly, as demand is lower compared to weekends and Mondays when business travel peaks.

• Why it matters: By flying on off-peak days, you can find significantly lower fares, especially on popular routes.

3. Book Domestic Flights 1 to 3 Months in Advance

For domestic travel, the best time to book is generally 1 to 3 months before departure. During this period, airlines tend to offer stable prices and sometimes even discounts as they try to fill seats.

• Pro tip: Avoid booking domestic flights more than 6 months in advance, as fares are often at their peak before airlines begin adjusting for demand.

4. Book International Flights 4 to 6 Months Ahead

If you’re planning an international trip, aim to book 4 to 6 months in advance. Airlines often release international discounts early to attract travelers and compete with other carriers on long-haul routes.

• Additional benefit: Booking this far ahead gives you more time to monitor fare changes and adjust plans if necessary.

5. Search for Flights Early in the Morning or Late at Night

Flight prices can fluctuate throughout the day, so searching during less active times, like early in the morning or late at night, may yield better deals. Fewer people are searching for flights at these times, reducing competition and, sometimes, prices.

• Best practice: Set aside time to search around 5 a.m. or after 11 p.m. for a higher chance of finding cheaper fares.

6. Book Flights 50 to 60 Days in Advance for Domestic Routes

Studies suggest that booking domestic flights around 50 to 60 days before departure often offers the lowest fares. This period allows airlines to fill seats while still leaving room for last-minute bookings, so fares tend to stabilize at competitive rates.

• Tip: Set a reminder to start monitoring fares 60 days before your planned departure.

7. Consider Booking Last-Minute for Certain Deals

While planning ahead is usually cheaper, airlines sometimes offer last-minute deals on unsold seats close to the departure date. This can lead to big savings if you have flexible travel plans and can book without much notice.

• When it works best: For weekend getaways or flexible trips, check for last-minute deals one or two weeks before departure.

8. Avoid Booking During Peak Times Like Holidays and School Breaks

Peak seasons, including holidays and school breaks, are when flights tend to be at their most expensive. By avoiding these times and flying off-peak, you’ll have a better chance of finding affordable flights.

• Alternative approach: If you need to travel during peak times, book as far in advance as possible (often 6 to 12 months) to lock in a lower fare.

9. Monitor for Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers

Airlines occasionally offer flash sales with discounted fares for specific routes and dates. Keeping an eye on these limited-time offers can help you find incredible deals, but they often require quick action.

• How to catch them: Subscribe to airline newsletters and travel deal websites to receive instant alerts on flash sales.

10. Use Price Alerts for Ideal Booking Times

Setting up price alerts allows you to track price fluctuations over time. Platforms like Google Flights and Kayak provide alerts on price drops, helping you book at the right time without constant monitoring.

• How to do it: Enter your destination and travel dates, then activate a price alert to receive updates as soon as fares change.

Conclusion: Timing Your Flight Booking for Maximum Savings

Booking flights at the right time and on the right days can make a huge difference in airfare costs. By understanding the best days to book, tracking fares in advance, and knowing when to look for deals, you’ll be well-equipped to find the lowest fares for any trip.