Unlocking the Secret to Affordable Flights: When to Book for the Best Deals

Wondering when is the best time to buy airline tickets to save the most money? Renowned travel journalist Peter Greenberg shares his expert insights on the ideal timing and days to secure budget-friendly airfare. This guide will reveal the perfect window to snag the cheapest flights and help you travel smarter.

Peter Greenberg, travel editor at CBS News, draws on his extensive experience to offer practical advice on the best days and times to purchase airline tickets, potentially saving you a significant amount on your next trip.

When Should You Book?

Airline tickets typically go on sale up to 330 days before departure. Many travelers recommend booking around 8 weeks (2 months) ahead for the best prices.

However, Greenberg suggests that the sweet spot for purchasing airline tickets is approximately 45 days, or six weeks, before your flight. Here's why:

One common mistake travelers make is booking too early. Unless you’re traveling during peak periods like the holidays, you’re more likely to find better deals by booking 45 days in advance for domestic flights and about 60 days for international journeys.

Outside this 45-day window, airlines rely on automated pricing systems based on last year’s passenger trends. If a flight was full the previous year, prices tend to be set higher—even if current demand has dropped due to unforeseen events, such as political unrest or travel restrictions. Booking too early can therefore lead to overpaying based on outdated data.

Greenberg also emphasizes the importance of flexibility with your travel dates. If you can avoid fixed dates, you stand a better chance of finding cheaper tickets. Flying midweek is particularly advantageous, as most flights—aside from business routes—tend to be less crowded and more affordable.

The Best Time of Day and Day of the Week to Book

According to Greenberg, the prime time to purchase discounted airline tickets is:

Wednesday at 1:00 AM local time of the airline’s headquarters.

This specific hour is crucial because airlines typically release fare discounts between Sunday evening and Monday evening. Passengers have that window to claim deals, and any unpurchased tickets are released back into the system shortly after midnight on Tuesday. Booking right after this reset, around 1:00 AM Wednesday, gives you access to the freshest deals.

Greenberg advises that to fully leverage this strategy, it's best to call the airline directly to book your ticket rather than relying solely on online platforms.

For more insider tips on airline booking tricks and affordable hotel reservations, check out travel expert Slava Baransky’s article: "How to Buy Cheap Flights and Book Hotels for Less: Reservation System Hacks."

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