Timing is everything when it comes to airfare. Book at the right moment and you could save hundreds. Here’s the season-by-season playbook.
The general rule
For domestic trips, book three to eight weeks ahead; for international, two to five months out. Mid-week departures are usually cheapest.
Season by season
- Summer & holidays: book early — prices only rise.
- Shoulder seasons (spring/autumn): the sweet spot for deals.
- Winter (non-holiday): often the cheapest fares of the year.
Stack the savings
Set fare alerts, stay flexible with dates, and compare nearby airports. Then pack smart with our weekend packing list.
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