Ever wondered what are the cheapest days to fly? One day, a ticket to your dream destination is dirt cheap, and the next, it’s doubled in price. But what if I told you there’s a pattern to this madness—and that flying on certain days could save you a lot of money? I once flew from London to Singapore for £175 and did a weekend in Naples for £38 return. The deals are out there – here’s how to find them.
The Best (and Worst) Days to Fly
If you’re looking for what are the cheapest days to fly, aim for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. These midweek flights tend to be cheaper because fewer people are traveling. Think about it—most folks book flights around their work schedules, which means Fridays and Sundays are the busiest (and most expensive).
Saturdays can also be a sweet spot, especially for international flights. Why? Because most leisure travelers kick off their trips on Fridays and return on Sundays, leaving Saturday flights with a little less demand.
On the flip side, Fridays and Sundays are the worst if you’re trying to save money. Airlines know people prefer to start their weekends early or return home before Monday, so they jack up prices accordingly.
Timing Your Booking for Maximum Savings
Flying on the right day is just one piece of the puzzle. Booking at the right time is just as crucial.
- For domestic flights, book 1 to 3 months in advance.
- For international flights, aim for 3 to 6 months ahead.
- Use price tracking tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak to monitor price drops.
- Stay flexible with your dates—sometimes shifting your trip by just a day or two can make a huge difference.
If you’re still asking yourself, what are the cheapest days to fly, keep in mind that timing your booking right can be just as important as choosing the right day to travel.
Timing isn’t just about days of the week; it’s also about the season.
- Peak seasons (most expensive): Summer (June–August), major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s), and spring break.
- Shoulder seasons (moderate prices): Late April–early June and September–early November.
- Off-peak (cheapest): January to early March (excluding holiday weekends).
Want to score a deal? Travel when everyone else isn’t.
Extra Hacks to Save on Flights
Still looking to shave a few bucks off your ticket? Try these:
- Fly at weird hours. Red-eyes and early morning flights tend to be cheaper.
- Consider nearby airports. Sometimes, flying into a smaller airport can save you money.
- Use airline miles or rewards programs. If you travel often, these perks add up.
- Check budget airlines. Just watch out for hidden fees.
- Book two one-way tickets instead of a round trip. Mixing airlines can sometimes be cheaper.
Who are the cheapest airlines to keep an eye on?
For travelers looking to stretch their budgets, choosing the right airline can make a significant difference in airfare costs. While ticket prices fluctuate based on seasonality, demand, and promotions, some airlines consistently offer lower fares than others. Here’s a look at some of the airlines known for providing affordable flights.
1. Ryanair (Europe)
Ryanair is Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, known for its rock-bottom fares and extensive route network. The airline frequently offers promotional deals, with flights sometimes costing less than a cup of coffee. However, travelers should be mindful of additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and other extras.
2. EasyJet (Europe)
Another popular European budget airline, EasyJet offers competitive fares on short-haul flights across the continent. While slightly more premium than Ryanair, EasyJet maintains affordable pricing and a straightforward booking process, with flexible fare options for added convenience.
3. Southwest Airlines (United States)
Southwest is one of the most budget-friendly airlines in the U.S., offering no hidden fees and two free checked bags for every passenger. The airline’s lack of assigned seating and its frequent fare sales make it a popular choice for domestic travelers looking for value.
4. Spirit Airlines (United States)
Spirit Airlines follows the ultra-low-cost carrier model, offering base fares at incredibly low prices while charging for extras like carry-on bags and seat selection. It’s a great choice for those who can travel light and don’t require additional frills.
5. Frontier Airlines (United States)
Frontier operates on a similar model to Spirit, with ultra-low fares and à la carte pricing for add-ons. The airline frequently runs flash sales, making it a budget-friendly option for domestic and some international travel.
6. AirAsia (Asia-Pacific)
AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier in Asia, offering cheap flights across the region, including to Australia and the Middle East. The airline’s “Big Sales” events can provide deeply discounted fares, making it a go-to for budget travelers.
7. IndiGo (India)
India’s largest airline by market share, IndiGo provides consistently low fares on domestic and international routes. With a no-frills approach and high on-time performance, it’s an excellent option for affordible air travel in South Asia.
8. Jetstar (Asia-Pacific & Australia)
Jetstar, a subsidiary of Qantas, operates as a low-cost airline across Asia and Australia. The airline frequently offers budget fares and deals, especially on long-haul routes where low-cost options are scarce.
9. Wizz Air (Europe & Middle East)
Wizz Air is a rapidly growing budget airline, offering cheap flights across Europe and expanding to destinations in the Middle East. With its discount club and frequent promotional fares, Wizz Air appeals to price-sensitive travelers.
10. Norwegian Air (Europe & Transatlantic)
Norwegian Air has gained recognition for offering competitive prices on both short-haul European routes and long-haul flights to the U.S. and Asia. Though its transatlantic operations have fluctuated, its low fares remain attractive to budget travelers.
These airlines consistently provide some of the cheapest airfares, making travel accessible for those willing to trade luxury for affordability. By keeping an eye on flash sales, booking in advance, and understanding baggage policies, budget-conscious travelers can take advantage of these airlines’ low fares to explore the world without over spending.
FAQs
What’s the Cheapest Day to Book a Flight?
While no single rule guarantees the lowest price, research suggests that Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the best days to book. Here’s why:
- Airline pricing resets early in the week. Many airlines release new fares on Monday nights or Tuesday mornings, leading to price adjustments from competitors.
- Lower demand compared to weekends. Most travelers search for flights on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, which can drive up prices. By waiting until midweek, you may find lower fares.
- Fare tracking tools help confirm trends. Prices fluctuate based on demand, so using tools like Google Flights or Hopper can give you real-time insights on the best time to book.
Of course, the best strategy is to monitor fares over time, set price alerts, and book when you see a good deal—regardless of the day.
What’s the Cheapest Day to Book a Holiday Package?
If you’re booking a full vacation (flight + hotel), Monday or Tuesday is usually your best bet. Here’s why:
Holiday sales often launch on Mondays. If travel companies are running promotions, they frequently start at the beginning of the week.
Travel companies adjust prices after the weekend rush. Many discounts are applied early in the week after evaluating demand from weekend searches.
Hotels often have midweek price drops. Hotel rates tend to rise on Thursdays and Fridays as weekend travelers book last-minute stays.
My conclusions:
So, what are the cheapest days to fly? If you want to pay less for flights, fly Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays, avoid Fridays and Sundays, and book ahead. Use fare comparison tools, travel during off-peak times, and be flexible with your dates. A little planning can mean big savings—which means more money for food, fun, or your next trip.
Most importantly, keep vigilant. Sometimes there us an early bird offer, sometimes a last minute special. Make sure you’re in the right place at the right time to bag a bargain.
Now, where are you flying next? ✈️
Photo by Spencer Imbrock on Unsplash
