Booking flights at the right time can save you hundreds of pounds on your holiday. But when exactly should you book to get the best deals? Here’s how to time your flight bookings for maximum savings.
Book in Advance, But Not Too Early
For most flights, the sweet spot for booking is between three to six months before your travel date. This window allows you to take advantage of early deals without risking the higher prices that often come closer to your departure date.
Airlines typically release their tickets 11 months in advance, but booking too early might not give you access to the best deals.
For international long-haul flights, aim for the six-month mark, as these tend to fluctuate more and booking earlier can help you lock in a lower price.
The Best Day to Book
Studies show that the best day to book flights for cheaper fares is typically Tuesday or Wednesday. Airlines often release promotions and adjust prices early in the week, which can result in lower fares on these days compared to weekends when demand is higher.
Prices tend to rise on Fridays and Saturdays as more people start searching for flights over the weekend.
Set price alerts on travel websites or apps, so you can monitor when prices drop and snag a great deal.
Fly Midweek for Cheaper Fares
In addition to booking on a Tuesday or Wednesday, flying midweek—particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays—often results in lower fares. Most travelers prefer flying on weekends, especially Friday and Sunday, which increases demand and prices on those days.
If your schedule is flexible, opting for midweek flights can save you significant money, especially for domestic or short-haul trips.
Avoid Peak Travel Seasons
To get the cheapest flight deals, it’s essential to avoid peak travel seasons, such as major holidays (Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter) or school breaks. Traveling during off-peak times—like late autumn or early spring—can lead to substantial savings.
If you must travel during a busy period, consider flying a few days before or after the peak dates to avoid the highest fares.
Last-Minute Deals
While it’s generally better to book in advance, sometimes airlines offer last-minute deals to fill empty seats. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and destination, you can find some excellent last-minute bargains. However, this approach is more unpredictable, and you may not always find the best prices if you wait too long.
