The Best Days to Book and Fly According to Google Flights Data
Unlock savings when planning your next trip
Dreaming of your next getaway but dreading the flight costs? Finding affordable airfare can feel like a game of chance, but what if you could tilt the odds in your favour? Thanks to insights gathered from Google Flights data, uncovering those travel deals is easier than you might think!
Let's dive into some data-backed secrets to help you snag cheaper flights for your next adventure.
The Magic Booking Day: Say Hello to Tuesday!
Forget weekend booking sprees. According to the data, Tuesday is your golden ticket for booking flights. While the savings might seem modest at around 1.3 percent compared to booking on the most expensive day (Sunday), every little bit helps when planning a trip! So, mark your calendar and make Tuesday your go-to day for hitting that "book now" button.
Fly Midweek for Maximum Savings
When it comes to the actual travel days, flexibility pays off significantly. Planning your departure or return on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday could lead to substantial savings. How substantial? You could save up to 13 percent on domestic flights compared to flying on the weekend. Heading abroad? The savings get even better, potentially reaching 20 percent for international travel!
Consider the Connection
While non-stop flights offer convenience, they often come with a higher price tag. If you're not pressed for time, opting for a flight with a layover can slash your costs considerably – think savings of around 25 percent compared to direct routes. It's a trade-off worth considering for the budget-savvy traveller.
Plan Ahead, Especially for Peak Times
Timing is everything. For specific trips, planning ahead is key:
Christmas Travel: Aim to book around 58 days before the holiday.
European Adventures: Secure your flights about 94 days in advance for potentially better deals.
Key Takeaways for Savvy Travelers:
Book on Tuesdays: Make it your flight-shopping day.
Fly Midweek: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays often offer the best fares.
Embrace Layovers: Consider connecting flights for significant savings.
Plan Ahead: Book well in advance, especially for holidays and popular destinations like Europe.
Finding cheaper flights doesn't require endless searching. By leveraging these insights from Google Flights data and being strategic about when you book and fly, you can unlock significant savings and make those travel dreams a reality without breaking the bank. Happy travels!