Insider Tips to Find Cheap Flights from the USA for Your Next Celebration

Insider Tips to Find Cheap Flights from the USA for Your Next Celebration - The Best Days and Times to Book Your Flight

Knowing the optimal time to book flights can save you big money on airfare. While there are no hard and fast rules, research and experience shows booking at the right time often results in the lowest fares.

For domestic U.S. flights, aim to book 21-120 days in advance. Flights booked 6+ weeks out tend to be cheaper than last-minute fares. But don't book too early either - fares often haven't been loaded yet 11+ months out.

When it comes to international flights, book even earlier when possible. According to Expedia, average prices on international flights are lowest 47 days before departure. If your travel dates are set, consider booking 4-8 months in advance.

As for days of the week, weekend and mid-week bargains tend to be sporadic. But studies show Tuesday around 3 p.m. Eastern tends to yield the most flight deals. Airlines often launch weekly sales then as competitors try to keep pace.

Some folks aim to book on weekdays when airlines staff more reservations agents. That way if you need to make changes, an agent can assist immediately versus waiting on weekends.

Shopping on Sundays when hackers are off work may reveal cheaper bids as well. By Monday, hackers have reloaded algorithms to hike fares again. Avoid booking last-minute on Fridays as desperate business travelers pay any price.

When it comes to hours, red-eyes often cost less as fewer compete for seats. If you can sleep en route or function on little rest, redeye flights can equate to hotel savings too.

Also consider booking at midnight to get the jump on pricing algorithms. Fares filed today are cheaper than tomorrow's flights. Setting alerts for price drops can also position you to pounce when airfare dips.