Unlocking the Secret: When is the Best Time to Buy International Airline Tickets?

Are you planning a dream vacation overseas or considering a business trip abroad? No matter what reasons you have for flying internationally, buying airline tickets can be quite overwhelming. The good news is that there are ways to get the best deals on international airline tickets, but timing is everything. In this article, we’ll explore when the best time is to purchase international airline tickets.

The Importance of Timing

Timing really does matter when it comes to buying international airline tickets. The prices can fluctuate daily and even hourly based on a variety of factors such as demand, airline supply, the seasonality of the destination, and more.

Booking international flights too early or too late can cost you a hefty amount. But, if you can strike the right balance and book at the perfect time, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let’s take a closer look at when the best time is to purchase international airline tickets.

Book Early, but Not Too Early

Contrary to popular belief, booking an international flight too early is not always the best solution. Many airlines start selling tickets 11 or 12 months before the departure date. The prices are generally higher during that period, but they do tend to drop in several months leading up to the flight date.

Based on extensive research, booking international flights around 3-5 months before the departure date tends to yield the best rates. For example, a study conducted by CheapAir found that the best time to book a flight to Europe is 120 days in advance. However, you should be aware that this may vary depending on the destination and the time of year.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

If you’re not bound to specific travel dates, you can save a substantial amount of money by being flexible with your travel schedule. If you can shift your travel plans by a couple of days, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars.

It’s essential to remember that flying on the weekends is notoriously more expensive than flying on weekdays. Therefore, it’s a good idea to look for weekday options to help you trim down on the expenses.

Avoid Peak Season

Peak season travel can be enticing because it’s the best time of the year to visit your dream destinations. However, it is often the most expensive time to fly. If possible, avoid flying during the peak season because airlines rarely offer any discounts for those periods.

The shoulder season, on the other hand, is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers. This is the time between peak and off-peak seasons, and it offers a sweet spot for getting good deals on airline tickets and minimizing crowds.

Consider Alternate Airports

Many travelers automatically search for tickets from their nearest airport. However, that might not always be the best option. Often, alternate airports in the surrounding areas can offer much lower fares, so it’s a good idea to compare and see if it makes sense location-wise.

For example, flying into Oakland Airport instead of San Francisco International Airport can save you hundreds of dollars, and it’s just a short drive away.

Final Thoughts

There is no doubt that buying international airline tickets can be quite overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can save a considerable amount of money. Timing is everything, so it’s crucial to be aware of the best times to book your tickets.

Book your international flights at least three to five months in advance, be flexible with your travel dates, avoid peak season, and consider alternate airports. By following these tips, you can unlock the secret to saving money on international airline tickets and enjoy your journey comfortably.