Best Time To Book Cheap International Flight Tickets [2024]
Booking international flights at the right time can save you money. According to CNBC, the best time to book is two to eight months in advance during off-peak seasons, and four to ten months ahead during peak times like summer and holidays. Expedia notes that booking 60 days in advance can yield about 10% savings. However, Travel and Leisure’s 2023 data suggests that booking four to six months out may result in higher prices.
Booking international flights at the cheapest possible price involves a combination of timing, strategy, and awareness of market trends. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the best deals on international flights. By leveraging these strategies and staying informed about the latest trends, you can ensure you get the best deals on your international flights.
Optimal Booking Time
The timing of your booking is crucial. Here are some key insights:
– **Off-Peak Seasons:** According to CNBC, for off-peak seasons (excluding summer, Christmas, and New Year’s), it’s best to book international flights two to eight months in advance. This period often offers the cheapest fares.
– **Peak Seasons:** For peak seasons, consider booking four to 10 months in advance to secure better prices.
– **General Trend:** Expedia’s Air Travel Hacks report suggests that booking 60 days in advance can save you around 10% compared to booking earlier. However, Travel and Leisure notes that 2023 data showed booking four to six months in advance led to higher prices on average.
Avoid Peak Times and Holidays
Avoiding peak travel times can significantly reduce your flight costs:
– **Major Holidays:** Steer clear of major holidays, including those at your destination, as these periods typically see higher fares.
– **Summer Travel:** Summer is a peak travel season, so it’s best to avoid booking flights during this time if you’re looking for cheaper options.
Best Day to Book
The day of the week you book your flight can also impact the price:
– **Sunday Booking:** Travel and Leisure indicates that Sunday is the cheapest day of the week to book flights, while Friday is the most expensive.
– **Statistical Data:** Bankrate mentions that statistically, the best day to book flights was 59 days out, but the lowest fares were found anywhere between 37 and 87 days before departure.
Use Incognito Mode
To avoid price increases due to repeated searches, use incognito mode:
– **Incognito Browsing:** Searching for flights in incognito mode can prevent prices from increasing due to cookies tracking your searches. You can also try using different devices to book without accepting cookies.
Additional Tips to Book Cheap Flight Tickets Online
– **Price Drops:** Keep an eye out for price drops. Booking in advance allows you to take advantage of any price reductions that may occur.
– **Flexibility:** Being flexible with your travel dates can also help you find cheaper flights. Consider traveling during the off-season or on less popular days.
CALL US TODAY (
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest international flights involves a mix of strategic planning and awareness of market trends. Here are the key takeaways:
– **Book in Advance:** For off-peak seasons, book two to eight months in advance. For peak seasons, consider four to 10 months in advance.
– **Avoid Peak Times:** Steer clear of major holidays and summer travel.
– **Best Booking Day:** Sunday is generally the cheapest day to book flights.
– **Use Incognito Mode:** Avoid price increases by using incognito mode when searching for flights.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the cost of your international flights and make your travel more affordable.
References: