When is the best time to book airfares? Does it pay to get in quick, or can you actually book too early? We look at the stats…
If you are planning an overseas holiday for this year, or even thinking ahead to 2025, it might be worth researching the best time to book.
Over the past couple of years, much has been written about the rising cost of international travel, with the price of fuel getting much of the blame.
But while it is true international travel is more expensive than it once was, there are still ways you can save money on your airfares with a little planning.
While it used to be a common belief amongst travellers that booking flights early (think international early bird sales) equalled savings, some travel experts now recommend waiting a little longer.
Most airlines allow tickets to go on sale 11 months before a flight is due to depart, with the exception of some early bird fares.
However, according to research by travel booking app Hopper, you should wait to book.
When should I book my overseas flights?
According to Hopper, the best deals don’t drop until at least 150 days before departure, and booking more than six months out can mean you’re buying tickets at the airline’s initial first-round pricing, which can be hefty and end up costing you more — especially for popular consumer flights.
Most expensive time of week to book flights
Hopper also uncovered some other information that could save you money when booking your flights. Hopper found that prices were generally higher on weekends, with the best deals found in the middle of the week.
In fact, Tuesday to Thursday was the best time to book a flight, so it might be better to set aside time on those days to plan your trip.
Be flexible with dates and even locations
Booking too early can also mean you’re less flexible, which is one of the quickest ways to miss out on savings.
Not only can you save money by travelling on a day when flights are cheaper, but sometimes you can save money by looking at other airports and destinations. Who knows, it might even add a touch more adventure to your trip.
How early should I book my flights for the best deal?
Just because booking well in advance isn’t thrifty, don’t think this means you should wait until the week before your vacation, because that doesn’t work either.
Flights generally are at their cheapest 100 to 75 days out from the flight, and then go up, sometimes steeply, from there.
The most important thing is research — make sure you check out all options before you purchase your tickets, and don’t rely on last-minute deals.
With so much online price tracking technology now at our fingertips, your best bet is to plan your trip in advance and then wait until the price is right to buy your tickets. That way you don’t run the risk of missing out, but you also don’t fall prey to overpaying.
*Hopper price estimates were based on 2018 data.
This article was reproduced with permission from 9Honey. To read the original article, click here.
