Why Booking Flights on Tuesday Could Save You Money, According To Google

Booking Flights for Domestic Travel
For those of us who tend to procrastinate, it’s tempting to just pack up and go on a whim. However, last-minute flights are rarely a bargain. Planning ahead is a surefire way to save. Google’s research reveals that the ideal time to book domestic flights is 38 days in advance. While booking within a window of 21 to 52 days before your trip can still offer great deals, the best fares are generally found when you give yourself a bit more time. Additionally, consider flipping your usual planning process on its head: instead of choosing a destination first, why not search for the cheapest flights? This flexibility could open up unexpected travel opportunities and leave more of your budget for enjoying the destination itself.
Booking Flights for International Travel
When it comes to international flights, early booking is even more crucial. Google’s data suggests that the most affordable prices typically occur about three months in advance. To be safe, aim to book at least 50 days ahead of your departure. However, specific regions require different timelines. For example, flights from the U.S. to Europe tend to be cheapest about 94 days before departure, while trips to Mexico or the Caribbean can be booked closer to 44 days in advance for the best deals.
The timing of your travel is just as important as when you book. For peak destinations like Italy in the summer or London around the holidays, prices soar during high-demand periods. Opting for shoulder seasons—like May or January—can save you a significant amount on airfare, giving you the chance to enjoy these spots without the hefty price tag.
Extra Tips to Save Money on Travel in 2025
Want to make your trip even more budget-friendly? Here are a few more tricks that can help you keep costs down:
- Book Flights on a Tuesday
Tuesdays are typically the best day to book flights, with prices averaging lower than other days of the week. While the difference isn’t massive (only about 1.3% cheaper than booking on Sunday), it’s still worth considering if you’re aiming to save.
- Fly on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday
Flying earlier in the week can reduce costs significantly. Travelers who fly on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday often save up to 13% compared to those departing on weekends. If you’re traveling internationally, this saving can increase to 20%. To avoid delays or cancellations, opt for earlier flights, as afternoon departures are more likely to experience disruptions.
- Track Prices
Platforms like Google Flights and Hopper make it easy to track flight prices and set alerts for price drops. These tools ensure you don’t miss out on potential savings. Signing up for airline email lists is also a smart move, keeping you in the loop about flash sales or promotions.
- Consider Flights with Layovers
Nonstop flights are more convenient, but they’re also more expensive. Flights with layovers are usually about 25% cheaper. If you don’t mind a little extra travel time, you can save a significant amount of money by opting for this option.
- Pack Smart
Finally, don’t overlook the potential savings from packing efficiently. Avoid checked bag fees by opting for a carry-on, and make sure you only bring what you truly need. This not only saves you money but also makes traveling lighter and easier, especially if you’re hopping between multiple cities.
By using these strategies, you can make sure that your vision board trips don’t just stay in your dreams but become affordable realities.