What’s the Best Time of Day to Score the Cheapest Flights?
If you’re booking a flight, you already know that finding the best deal can often seem like a game of luck. And while there are a lot of factors that go into the price of airfare, one of the simplest and most overlooked is the time of day you book your flight.In this guide, we’ll explore the best time of day to buy flights and offer some tips to help you save money on your next trip.
When to Shop for Flights
When it comes to airfare prices, the day you book is just as important as the day you fly. According to a recent study by Expedia and ARC, the cheapest day to book a flight is Sunday, while the most expensive day is Friday.But what about the time of day? While there’s no magic hour to book a flight, there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for cheap flights:
1. Avoid Booking During Peak Hours
One of the easiest ways to save money on flights is to avoid booking during peak hours. Airlines know that most people are looking to book their trips after work or on weekends, so they often raise their fares during these times.A study by CheapAir.com found that the best time to book a flight is on Tuesday afternoon, when airlines usually release their sales and promotions. Booking early in the morning or late at night can also save you some money, as airlines tend to adjust their prices during off-peak hours.
2. Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Another way to score cheap flights is to be flexible with your travel dates. If you have some wiggle room in your itinerary, try searching for flights on different days of the week to see if you can find a better deal.Keep in mind that holidays and peak travel seasons (such as summer) will always be more expensive, so if you can avoid traveling during those times, you may be able to save some money.
3. Set Up Price Alerts
If you’re planning a trip far in advance, it can be helpful to set up price alerts for your preferred travel dates. This way, you’ll get notified when prices drop and can book your flights at a lower rate.Many travel sites and airlines offer this service, and it’s often free. Just make sure you have some flexibility in your travel plans, as prices can fluctuate widely based on demand.
In Conclusion
While there’s no guarantee that you’ll always find cheap flights, there are definitely ways to increase your chances of getting a good deal. By avoiding peak booking hours, being flexible with your travel dates, and setting up price alerts, you’ll be well on your way to saving money on airfare.Remember to also check different travel sites and airlines to compare prices and don’t forget to book your flights well in advance of your travel dates to avoid paying last-minute prices.With these tips in mind, you’re sure to find cheap flights to your next destination. Safe travels!