Booking a flight can feel like a guessing game, but with a little know-how, you can get the best deal at just the right time. The truth is, the best time to book depends on a few things, like where you’re going, when you’re flying, and how far in advance you’re planning. But don’t worry—here are some solid tips that’ll help you find a great fare, no matter where you’re headed.

1. Booking Domestic Flights: The Sweet Spot

• 6 to 8 weeks out: This is generally the sweet spot for booking domestic flights. Airlines often offer their best fares within this window, so if you’re planning a domestic trip, try to lock in your ticket about two months ahead.
• Tuesday and Wednesday: Mid-week is when airlines tend to release new deals or make price adjustments. So, if you’re hunting for a deal, try looking on these days—you might just snag a better price.
• Avoid weekends: Fridays and Sundays are the busiest days for flying, which means more people are booking and the prices are higher. If you can, aim to travel earlier in the week.

2. Booking International Flights: Book Early, Save Big

• 2 to 6 months in advance: For international flights, the earlier you book, the better—especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons like summer, holidays, or school breaks. This gives you the best chance of finding affordable fares.
• Mid-week again (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday): Yep, just like domestic flights, international fares are often cheaper if you book mid-week.
• Last-minute bookings? Probably not a good idea: For international trips, waiting until the last minute can really hurt your wallet. Prices tend to shoot up the closer you get to your departure date, so try to plan ahead.

3. When to Fly: Timing Is Everything

• Off-season: If you’re flexible with when you travel, aim for the off-season. Avoiding major holidays and school breaks can lead to cheaper fares and fewer crowds.
• Shoulder seasons: The months just before or after peak seasons (like late spring or early fall) are perfect for saving money. The weather is usually still nice, and you’ll have more space to roam without the summer crowds.

4. General Tips for Scoring a Deal

• Set price alerts: The easiest way to track fare changes is by setting up price alerts. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak can do the work for you, sending you notifications when prices drop.
• Be flexible with your dates: If you can, be flexible about your travel dates. Shifting your trip by a day or two can sometimes save you a significant amount on your ticket.
• Mid-week flights: Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays is usually cheaper than flying on weekends. If you can adjust your schedule, these days are a great way to save some cash.