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There’s no better feeling than planning a trip and getting it at a much cheaper price than the other people are using. However, it is not alchemy to find cheap flight prices but timing or the science behind it.
This fact can work to the advantage of the traveler, if one is booking at a time close to the planned journey; the amount he or she will pay can vary enormously. Here it goes, fly more, spend less, and let me give those of you who are interested in the best time of the year to get cheap flight deals.
The Magic of Shoulder Seasons
This is indeed the single most effective rule when it comes to trying to find cheapest flight deals: Do not fly during peak times. Well, that is where the concept of shoulder seasons comes into the picture. It turns out these are the months during which the prices have been slashed by the airlines since they are not in peak or off-peak travel seasons.
- Spring (March to May): This is a great time to get good deals, unless you are traveling during the spring break weeks. Those travelling in lesser numbers are less likely to cause much demand and thus are bound to land good deals.
- Fall (September to November): In between the summer crowd and the festive season, airlines bring down fares to increase traffic. Also, Europe is among the cheapest regions to travel to during this period.
The “Dead Zones” – Cheapest Times to Fly
There are actual seasons throughout the year when people do not fancy making travels, and the airlines have to offer their services. This is when you will see some of the most affordable ticket prices you will come across in a long time.
- Early January to Mid-February: As people go back to work after the holiday break, the demand for flights reduces as well, so now is the best time to grab offers.
- Late April to Early June: The situation preceding the peak of the summer travelling season.
- Mid-September to Mid-November: It is a nice period of time close to the end of summer vacation but before the onset of holidays’ traveling.
Best Days of the Week to Book and Fly
The day of the week you book and fly can also impact the price. Generally:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: These days tend to have lower prices compared to weekends when demand spikes.
- Saturdays for International Flights: Many business travelers fly during the week, leaving Saturdays with more availability and sometimes lower prices.
- Avoid Fridays and Sundays: These are the busiest days, meaning higher fares.
Holiday Hacks for Cheaper Flights
Flights around major holidays can be ridiculously expensive, but there are ways to save.
- Fly on the holiday itself: If traveling on Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Day isn’t a problem, you’ll often find significant savings.
- Book months in advance: For peak travel periods, book at least three to six months ahead for the best cheap flight deals.
- Consider alternative airports: Smaller airports or those a short drive from your destination might offer better fares.
When Airlines Drop Prices – The 6-8 Week Rule
For domestic flights, the sweet spot to book is typically 6 to 8 weeks before departure. Airlines release cheap seats first, and prices gradually increase as seats fill up. Waiting until the last minute? Unless there’s a flash sale, it’s usually not a good idea.
For international flights, booking 3 to 6 months in advance is ideal for finding the cheapest flight deals.
Flash Sales and Mistake Fares – Be Ready to Pounce!
Airlines have regular promotions, flash sales or the so called mistake fares where prices plummet. These don’t last long, so it helps to:
- Set fare alerts: Use apps or websites that notify you when prices drop.
- Be flexible: If you can fly on different dates, you’ll have better luck finding a deal.
- Book fast: If a deal pops up, grab it! Most lines provide the consumer some time, usually 24 hours, within which the order can be canceled without a fee.
Getting a good flight deal isn’t always based on the cost but also on the timing on when to look for it. In other words, knowing when to book, avoiding last minute searches, traveling in low to moderate seasons, and selecting low demand days of the week is good enough. Travel better, travel and get cheapest flight deals, and get the most out of your vacation trips without emptying your wallets!
