When you book can matter as much as where you’re going. Here’s a simple guide to timing your purchase for better prices.
Domestic Flights
For trips within your country, booking one to three months ahead is often the sweet spot. Last-minute bookings usually cost more, and very early bookings don’t always offer the best deals. Tuesday and Wednesday departures tend to be cheaper than weekend flights.
International and Long-Haul
For international and long-haul routes, aim to book two to four months in advance when possible. Premium cabins (business and first) often have limited discounted seats, so earlier booking increases your chances of finding a good fare.
Seasonal and Holiday Travel
Around holidays and peak seasons, prices rise and availability drops. Book as soon as your dates are set—often two to three months ahead or more for Christmas, New Year, and summer peaks.
Last-Minute Deals
Sometimes airlines drop prices to fill empty seats in the final weeks. This is less reliable for business class but worth watching if your plans are flexible. Setting price alerts helps you catch these dips.
There’s no single “best” day to book; what matters most is booking in the right window for your route and cabin, and staying flexible when you can.