Last week, we talked about how much the airline business has changed in the last several decades. Those changes are about more than just mergers and acquisitions – they affect the timing of ticket prices too.
It used to be that the earlier you bought a plane ticket the better, but not anymore. Buying too far in advance can mean missing out on discounted fares offered closer to departure. Wait too long, however, and you could face sky-high fares or even a sold-out flight.
So when should you buy?
- Economists suggest 8 weeks out is often the sweet spot, while airline reporting data points closer to 6 weeks out.
- For international trips, aim to purchase about 5 months before departure.
- Holiday travel is the big exception: book as early as you can.
Other money-saving tips:
Tuesday and Wednesday are typically the best days to buy tickets – and also the cheapest days to fly.
Ticket prices can change up to three times per day. Setting up email alerts can help you catch sudden drops.
- Sunday is usually the most expensive day to fly.
- Prices rise sharply the week of the flight – often 40% more than the average fare.
- Most discount ticket sales are announced early in the week.
Don’t chase the very last seat on the plane. Instead, aim for the average seat price. That’s where you’ll usually save the most.
Bottom line: Shop smart, plan ahead, and keep your eye on fare alerts. A little timing strategy can make a big difference in how much you pay for your next trip.
