When is the best time to book a flight?
20 June 2026
Flight prices change constantly. Book too early and you overpay; too late and you do too. Here are the rules that actually work.
The rule of thumb: 1 to 3 months ahead
For European routes the sweet spot is usually 6 to 10 weeks before departure. For long-haul, aim earlier — 2 to 5 months. Last-minute is rarely cheaper, except outside peak season.
Day and time matter less than you think
The old "book on Tuesday night" myth no longer holds. What does help:
- Departure day: Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday are often cheaper than Friday and Sunday.
- Avoid school holidays.
- Flexible dates: shifting by one day can save a lot.
Better than timing: track the price
Don't guess. Set a price alert and let the price watch itself — you'll be told when it drops below your threshold.
FAQ
Is booking very early always cheaper?
No. Very early (>6 months) prices are often still high; they usually dip around 2–3 months out.
Do prices rise if I search often?
No, that's a myth — incognito makes no reliable difference.