Google has analyzed four years of aggregated flight data to provide valuable insights for U.S. travelers looking to save money on airfare. Here are the top 12 tips based on their findings.
1. Domestic Flights: Book 38 Days in Advance
For trips within the U.S., average prices have been lowest 38 days before departure. The historical low price range is 21-52 days before takeoff.
2. International Flights: Book Early
For international travel, book as early as possible. While average prices have been lowest 101 days before departure, the historical low price range is anytime 50 days or more before takeoff.
3. Thanksgiving Travel: Book in Early October
For domestic Thanksgiving trips, prices have been lowest 45 days before departure, with a low price range of 26-59 days out.
4. Christmas Travel: Book in Late October
For domestic Christmas travel, plan further ahead. Prices have been lowest 58 days before departure, with a low price range of 36-72 days out.
5. Spring Break: Book 44 Days in Advance
For domestic trips in March or April, the lowest prices have been 44 days before departure, with a low price range of 33-59 days out.
6. Summer Vacation: Consider Last-Minute Deals
For domestic travel in July or August, prices have been lowest 21 days before departure, with a low price range of 13-43 days out.
7. European Trips: Book at Least 94 Days Ahead
Trips to Europe from the U.S. tend to be cheapest 94 days before departure, with the low price range being 50 days or more before takeoff.
8. Mexico and Caribbean Trips: Book 44 Days in Advance
Prices for travel from the U.S. to Mexico or the Caribbean have been lowest 44 days before departure, with a low price range of 26-68 days out.
9. Day of the Week to Book: It Doesn’t Matter Much
There’s minimal benefit to booking on a specific day. Tuesday has historically been the cheapest, but only 1.3% cheaper than Sunday, the most expensive day.
10. Cheapest Days to Fly: Early Week
Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday flights have been 13% cheaper than Friday, Saturday, or Sunday flights.
11. Domestic vs. International Savings
For domestic flights only, the potential savings for flying early in the week jump to 20% compared to weekend flights.
12. Consider Layovers for Better Deals
On average, nonstop flights have been 25% more expensive than flights with stops. Weigh the cost savings against the added travel time.
By keeping these tips in mind, travelers can make more informed decisions when booking flights and potentially save money on their airfare.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Google. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.