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ZDNET Highlights
- The ideal booking window for domestic flights is about one to two months before departure.
- You should plan your trip abroad well in advance to ensure the most favorable rates.
- Flying early in the week, especially on Tuesday, can result in consistently low ticket prices.
The last time I booked a leisure flight, I spent over an hour finding the cheapest ticket to Hawaii, keeping in mind two criteria: It had to be a direct flight and only have one stopover. At least one layover was to be expected (at LAX) since Kentucky is so far from the Aloha State. However, I could have saved some time – and money – if I had known what Google’s latest flight report revealed.
What’s the cheapest day to fly?
based on The latest aggregate data from Google Flights From 2021 to 2025, travelers looking for the most affordable airfare should consider flying early in the week. Tuesday has been consistently recognized as the cheapest day to flyAfter that Monday and Wednesday. Opting for midweek flights can save you 13% to 20% less on airfare compared to weekend travel.
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Flying on Friday, Saturday or Sunday is more expensive, with Sunday considered the priciest day of the week to fly. These Google Flights insights reveal a consistent trend in airfare pricing, highlighting that booking a Tuesday departure can result in cost savings for budget-conscious travelers.
Do layovers save you money?
In short, yes. According to Google Flights data, layover flights typically cost about 25% less than direct flights. Despite the extra travel time and inconvenience, you can potentially save over $90 (on average) by enduring the hassle of a stopover. While savings vary, layover flights consistently offer low fares, allowing you to reach your destination more affordably – as long as you’re flexible with your itinerary.
What is the cheapest day to book a flight?
According to statistics, it doesn’t matter what day of the week you book a flight. Instead, it’s a matter of how Quick You do it.
It is generally wise to book flights early, especially during peak travel periods such as holidays. However, throughout the year, prices usually increase closer to departure. So the best time to book depends on the destination, time of year, and pricing trends. Popular destinations during peak times and international flights often require advance booking if you intend to save costs.
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Google Flights data shows that the optimal time to book flights within the US is between 21 and 52 days before your departure date. Interestingly, Google’s analysis shows that 38 days before your trip Offers the lowest prices. I know–it’s very specific. As it turns out, this is a highly concentrated window where airlines strategically adjust their pricing to balance seat occupancy and revenue.
When it comes to international travel, the lowest prices tend to appear 50 to 101 days before your desired travel dates. Although there is no specific “cheapest” day identified for domestic flights, the general guidance is to secure your tickets as early as possible within this time frame to avoid price increases closer to the departure date. As a general rule, keep in mind that prices generally begin to rise significantly within a 50-day period.
How far out from the holidays should I book?
Here’s what Google Flights indicates about optimal booking periods for flights during different seasons in the U.S. Its data pinpoints specific days to purchase your tickets.
Spring Break (March/April): Aim to book 33-59 days in advance, with the average cheapest time being 44 days before departure.
Summer Vacation (July/August): The optimal booking window is typically 13–43 days in advance, with the lowest prices offered on average 21 days out.
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Thank you note: For the best deals, book 26-59 days before the holiday, ideally around 45 days out (early October).
Christmas/Winter Holidays: Look for flights 36-72 days in advance, the cheapest fares usually appear 58 days before travel (late October).
Thanks to Google Flights’ information on price trends, we can find better deals on flights in the United States and abroad. Keep in mind that these are only averages. The actual price may change depending on where you are going, who you are flying with, what time of year it is, and how many people are booking the flight with you at the same time.
Good luck, and safe travels!
update log
- This story was first published on May 1, 2025, and was updated on January 2 following the new release of Google’s 2025 Travel Trends report.
