Finding the perfect time to book airline tickets can save hundreds of dollars on your travel expenses. Research shows that booking 61 days before departure is the sweet spot for domestic flights, but there's much more to consider.
Best Time to Buy Airline Tickets in 2025: Complete Guide to Save Money
This comprehensive guide will explore the best booking windows, tools, and strategies to secure the cheapest flights in 2025.
1. Early Morning Bookings (Tuesday 6 AM)
Airlines typically release new fares and update prices early Tuesday morning. Booking between 5 AM and 7 AM EST on Tuesdays can save you 15-25% on ticket prices. This happens because airlines often match competitors' prices during these early morning hours.
2. The 61-Day Sweet Spot
According to CheapAir's 2024 Airfare Study, booking exactly 61 days before departure offers the best combination of availability and pricing for domestic flights. For international flights, the window extends to 120-180 days before departure.
3. Seasonal Booking Windows
Different seasons require different booking strategies:
- Summer flights: Book 99 days in advance
- Fall flights: Book 69 days in advance
- Winter flights: Book 94 days in advance
- Spring flights: Book 84 days in advance
4. Price Comparison Tools
Using flight comparison tools can save up to 80% on regular fares. Set price alerts and compare across multiple airlines to find the best deals. Many tools now offer price prediction features that tell you whether to book now or wait.
5. Off-Peak Travel Days
Flying on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday typically costs 20-35% less than other days. Early morning flights (5 AM-7 AM) and red-eye flights often offer the lowest fares, with savings of up to 30%.
6. Flexible Date Strategy
Being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant savings. Use flexible date search tools to compare prices across different days and find the cheapest combination for your route.
Final Words
The key to finding the best airline ticket prices is combining these strategies. Remember the 61-day rule as a baseline, but always consider seasonal factors and be flexible with your travel dates when possible. Using price comparison tools and setting up price alerts will help you catch the best deals when they appear.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Airline Tickets
Is it really cheaper to buy airline tickets on Tuesday?
Yes, specifically early Tuesday morning between 5 AM and 7 AM EST tends to offer better prices. This is when airlines typically release new fares and match competitors' prices. However, good deals can be found any day of the week if you're monitoring prices regularly.
How far in advance should I book international flights?
For international flights, the best booking window is typically 120-180 days before departure. However, this can vary by destination and season. European flights often have better deals 120 days out, while Asian routes might have better pricing 160 days before departure.
Do flight prices go down closer to departure date?
Generally, no. Flight prices typically increase as the departure date approaches, especially in the last 21 days. While last-minute deals occasionally exist, they're rare and unpredictable. The 61-day rule (booking about two months in advance) usually offers the best balance of availability and pricing.
What's the best way to track flight prices?
The most effective way is to use multiple price tracking tools like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner simultaneously. Set price alerts for your desired routes and monitor them for at least a few weeks to understand price patterns. Many of these tools also offer price prediction features that can help you decide when to book.
