Finding cheap flights isn’t just luck—it’s all about timing. Airfare prices change constantly as airlines adjust fares based on demand, season, and seat availability. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or searching for flights from Montana, knowing the best time to book can help you avoid overspending and grab the lowest possible prices. With a little strategy and awareness of how airline pricing works, you can easily save hundreds on your next trip. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about when airfare is at its cheapest and how to book at the perfect moment.
1. Book Flights 1–3 Months Before Domestic Travel
For domestic trips, booking one to three months in advance typically gives you the lowest fares. Airlines release seats early, and prices drop as airlines try to fill the plane. Waiting too long often leads to higher prices, especially if demand spikes closer to the travel date.
Why this works:
- Airlines want to sell seats early.
- Competition between airlines lowers fares.
- More options are available before seats fill up.
2. Book International Flights 3–6 Months Ahead
International airfare is more complex and changes earlier. Booking three to six months in advance usually offers the best balance of price and availability. For popular destinations like Europe or Southeast Asia, prices can rise quickly as seats get booked.
Best timing for popular regions:
- Europe: 4–6 months early
- Asia: 3–5 months early
- Middle East: 3–4 months early
- North America cross-border: 2–4 months early
3. Fly and Book on Weekdays for Lower Prices
Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually the cheapest days to fly. Airlines also tend to release deals early in the week, making Monday night to Wednesday morning the best time to book.
Cheapest days:
- Fly: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday
- Book: Monday night to Wednesday
4. Avoid Peak Seasons When Possible
Peak travel seasons bring higher prices due to high demand. If you’re flexible, traveling during off-peak periods can drastically reduce your airfare.
High-price seasons to avoid:
- Christmas, New Year
- Summer holidays (June–August)
- Festival dates and long weekends
Cheaper travel months:
- September
- October
- February
- Early March
5. Book Early for Holidays & School Breaks
Holiday flights get expensive fast. If you plan to travel during Christmas, Diwali, Eid, or Spring Break, booking at least 6–8 months early is your safest bet to lock in a reasonable fare.
Tip:
Subscribe to airline newsletters to get alerts about early holiday sales.
6. Use Fare Alerts to Track Price Drops
Instead of checking prices every day, set fare alerts. Apps like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper will notify you whenever the price goes down so you can book at the exact right moment.
Benefits:
- Saves time
- Helps you grab short-term price drops
- Avoids overpaying due to sudden spikes
Conclusion
The best time to book flights depends on your destination, season, and flexibility. Generally, domestic flights are cheapest 1–3 months early, and international flights 3–6 months early. Combine this timing with weekday bookings, off-peak travel, and fare alerts, and you’ll always find airfare at its lowest.
