Travel tips · 6 min read
The Cheapest Time to Book Flights: What the Data Says
Published October 9, 2026
Timing can change your fare by hundreds of dollars. While there's no magic day, clear patterns help you book smarter.
Domestic flights
For US domestic trips, fares are usually lowest 1–3 months before departure. Booking within two weeks of travel tends to cost the most.
International flights
Aim for 2–6 months ahead, and even earlier for peak summer and holiday travel.
Cheapest days to fly
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are often cheaper than Fridays and Sundays. Early-morning departures are frequently discounted too.
Lock it in without waiting
If you find a great fare before payday, a 6-month plan lets you secure it now instead of risking a price jump.