Buying a plane ticket is all about timing.
Too early and you’ll pay extra. Too late and it’ll cost you an arm.
The rate you pay even depends on the day of the week!
Here are 4 tips for when to buy a plane ticket.
Image courtesy of uncleboatshoes
1. Skip the Weekends!
Plane tickets are almost always more expensive on weekends. Airlines will get in bidding wars and push prices up during the week. By the time the weekend rolls around, ticket prices are at their peak.
Prices are typically automatically adjusted as well, so they’ll keep climbing until a certain point without human interference.
2. Tuesday and Wednesday are best
The middle of the week has been shown to be the best time to buy.
According to the Wall Street Journal,
Many sales, in which some seats are discounted by 15% to 25% typically, are launched Monday night. Competitors typically match the lower prices Tuesday morning. By Thursday or Friday, many sales have already expired.
That gives you a brief window of opportunity from late Monday night until Thursday morning to jump on the best price. Don’t miss out!
3. Three Months Ahead of Time
Even thought you’re planning ahead, don’t be too early!
According to FareCompare.com, “Airlines start discounting 3 1/2 months before departure”.
Anytime before 3 months and airlines know you’re looking to travel on those exact dates. It’s better to wait a little longer and see if the premiums go down.
4. Book Before It’s too Late!
Unfortunately, the “last minute” airfare may never come.
FareCompare.com says 14 days before departure is the point of no return.
Although last minute fares are always possible if it’s a slow time of year, it’s the exception to the rule.
When it gets this late, airlines know you need that last seat. They’ll expect you’ll be willing to pay for it.
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