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Travelers have debated the best ways to save money on a flight for years. Should you buy on a specific day of the week? What day should you fly? How far in advance should you buy your flight? Well, a recent study is answering these questions and more. When to book your next flight to get the best deals?
To get the cheapest flight, book your ticket between three weeks and 2.5 months before you leave, according to CheapAir.com’s Annual Airfare Study.
“This year’s Prime Booking Window extends to about three weeks from your travel date. In 2024, you can wait a little longer to buy, and the window where you will find the lowest fares extends to about 2.5 months out,” the report said.
The CheapAir.com study analyzed over 917 million airfares in over 8,000 markets across the United States. Besides identifying the Prime Booking Window, the study also had a few other warnings for procrastinators and early birds.
Travelers Will Have More Flight Options
According to the study, those who book their ticket too early could pay as much as 36% more on average. Booking early does have its advantages, though. You’ll have more flight options to fit your specific schedule needs and plenty of time to pick your seats.
Meanwhile, those who book their tickets too late — less than a week in advance — typically pay about 59% more. Those who push their luck, waiting to book until one or two weeks before their trip, usually pay 26% more on average.
The study also debunks the myth that buying your flight on a specific day of the week will cause a cheaper fare.
“Data reveals that the average meager fare varies by less than $1, no matter what day of the week you buy an airline ticket,” the report said.
What does matter, however, is the day you fly.
The study found that midweek flights are almost always cheaper than the weekends, with Wednesday being the least expensive day to fly.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
