There is no secret day that is always cheapest, but a few habits consistently lead to better prices and fewer surprises.
Be flexible where you can
- Dates: shifting a trip by a day or two, especially away from Fridays and Sundays, often lowers the fare.
- Airports: compare nearby airports, for example Miami and Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles and Burbank.
- Time of day: early-morning and late-evening flights are often cheaper.
Book at a sensible time
For US domestic trips, booking one to three months ahead usually gives a good choice of fares. For international trips and peak holidays, start looking three to six months ahead. Last-minute fares can be low on some routes but are unpredictable.
Compare the total, not the headline
A low basic economy fare can become expensive once you add a carry-on, checked bag and seat selection. Compare the full cost of the fare type that fits your trip, including any agency service fee, which should be shown before you pay.
Read the fare rules
Before you book, check whether the fare can be changed or cancelled, whether bags are included and whether the trip includes a self-transfer or a change of airport.
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