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IN BRIEF
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Discover the ideal day to find your plane tickets at the best price
Planning a trip and finding yourself in search of plane tickets can be a real challenge. Many travelers wonder: what is the ideal day to book in order to get the best deals? Several studies and data analyses recently published provide insights into the question, revealing specific times when ticket prices are often lowest. This article guides you through these key pieces of information to optimize your bookings.
Understanding the importance of the booking timing
In the travel realm, the timing chosen for booking a flight plays a decisive role in the final ticket cost. Many wrongly believe that simply booking very early will lead to savings, but the reality is much more nuanced. In fact, flight prices can fluctuate significantly, and there are specific periods that favor access to advantageous rates.
The most favorable days to book
Experts agree that certain days of the week are more conducive to making a reservation. Paradoxically, booking on a Sunday often proves to be the best strategy. In fact, prices can be up to 24% cheaper for domestic flights and 20% cheaper for international flights when booked on this day. On the other hand, Friday is generally considered the most expensive day to make reservations.
The impact of the time of year on ticket prices
The calendar also plays a crucial role in the cost of airplane tickets. Contrary to what one might think, taking holidays in August is not always the most expensive choice. In fact, for domestic flights, prices can be up to 13% lower for those traveling in August compared to those who choose to depart in May, which is considered the most expensive month. Similarly, January proves to be the most affordable month for international tickets, allowing for notable savings.
Departure days also influence costs
The choice of departure day can have a significant impact on a trip’s budget. For domestic flights, flying on a Saturday can save up to 26% compared to a Tuesday departure. When it comes to international flights, Sunday is the most economical day, while Thursdays show higher prices.
Avoiding crowds and delays
Beyond costs, the travel period can also affect the quality of the experience. Tuesdays are often low-traffic days in airports, perfect for those who prefer to avoid the crowd. Moreover, September is noted as the month when delays are less frequent, while March is recommended for avoiding flight cancellations.
Anticipation versus hastiness in booking
While some think that a very early booking guarantees savings, this approach is not always effective. In reality, plane ticket prices are often at their highest between 170 and 180 days before departure. The best deals are generally available between 43 and 56 days before the flight for international routes, and between 50 and 60 days for domestic trips.
