Want to know a few secrets for cheap flights? I’ve gathered tips from travel professionals to help you score the best fares for your next trip. You can also download and print a pretty reference page with this information….just go to the end of this post.
Secret #1: Pay Attention to the Day of the Week
Best Days to Book: Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
Best Day to Fly: Tuesday
Include a Saturday Night Stay (except China and Asia)
Secret #2: Know How Far Ahead to Book Your Flight
| Where? | Days Before Travel? | Savings! |
| U.S. Domestic | 53-57 | 10% |
| Caribbean | 77 | 5% |
| Europe | 176 | 11% |
| Asia/Pacific | 160 | 13% |
| Middle East/Africa | 144 | 24% |
| Central/South America | 90 | 10% |
Source: Airline Reporting Corporation (Based on 26 million airfares)
Secret #3: Use the Best Websites for Bargain Airfare Searches
| Website | Notes |
| Momondo.com | Does not use cookies. Good for Europe |
| Skyscanner.net | Global travel search site |
| Justfly.com | Recommended by Peter Greenberg |
| Priceline.com | No choice about airline or flight times |
| CheapTickets.com | Mix-and-match airlines for best deals |
| CheapAir.com | “Price Drop Payback” if fare goes down |
| Kayak.com | Best for airline comparisons |
Here’s all the information in a downloadable, printable PDF format. And don’t forget to talk to a human.
Have a great flight!
More budget travel information:
Frequent Flyer Programs: What You Should Know
Want the Best Travel Deals? Talk to a Human!
Why Off-Season Travel Is Best (Shhhhh…Don’t Tell!)
Updated July 13, 2018
I needed this! Am trying to find cheap flights for the family vacay! Thanks!
I’m glad you found some new ideas. Bargain flights are how I travel, too.
Fare sales are always the main consideration to me. When there is a great price, then I can create a vacation opportunity around it. I love window shopping on Secret Flying.
I agree! I continue to search and update. It’s a good idea to sign up for a few websites and alerts. If you find a great new site, please let us know!