If you’re wondering when to book flights for 2025, the short answer is: it depends. Season, destination, and day of the week all play a role.
However, with airfare trends shifting rapidly, booking flights at the right time can save you hundreds of dollars. Here’s your data-backed guide to finding cheap flights in 2025, whether you’re flying domestic or international.
Best Time to Book Domestic Flights in 2025
When it comes to U.S. domestic routes, timing matters. According to Google Flights data, as reported by CNET, booking between 21 and 52 days in advance typically results in lower prices. Thirty-eight days in advance is the optimal time for securing the lowest fares.
Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks report recommends booking domestic flights 21 to 60 days out, with Sunday being the cheapest day to book, averaging 6% savings over Fridays.
Best days to fly: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, when fares are typically lower midweek.
When to Book International Flights for Best Prices
Looking to score the best international flight deals in 2025? Aim to book your trip two to six months ahead, especially for long-haul routes.
According to National Geographic, the average lowest prices are found around 101 days before departure, though this can vary by region.
- Europe in summer? Book by March.
- Asia or Australia? Prices often drop 90–120 days ahead.
- Holiday travel? Book 3– 6 months in advance for popular dates.
Pro Tip: International flights departing on Thursdays often offer better deals than those departing on weekends.
Cheapest Times to Travel by Season
Being flexible with your travel dates can unlock even deeper savings. Here’s how to book flights by season:
Spring (March–May)
Spring is a smart time to travel internationally. Think cherry blossoms in Japan or quiet villages in southern Europe. Fewer crowds and early bookings often mean cheaper flights and better hotel deals.
- Best time to book: 2 to 3 months in advance
- Best for: Europe, Japan, the U.S. South, and desert destinations
Summer (June–August)
Booking flights by February or March is your best bet for securing the best savings. Late August, however, tends to be cheaper than early July, according to Travel + Leisure.
- Best time to book: 4 to 6 months in advance
- Best for: National parks, beach destinations, and European cities
Fall (September–October)
Fall is an ideal time for budget travel, thanks to fewer crowds, lower fares, and stunning scenic beauty. Flights in September and October can be up to 32% cheaper than those in summer, making them perfect for road trips and harvest getaways.
- Best time to book: 1 to 2 months in advance
- Best for: Europe, Canada, U.S. cities, and wine regions
Winter (November–February)
Winter travel can be pricey during the holidays, but early November, January, and February often bring the cheapest airfare, especially to dry-season destinations like Southeast Asia and Central America.
- Best time to book: 2 to 4 months in advance for holidays; 1 month out for off-peak
- Best for: Ski trips, tropical escapes, and budget city breaks
Tools to Find the Cheapest Flights
Tracking flights manually is exhausting. These apps and platforms use airfare trends and price prediction tools to help:
- Google Flights – Great for seeing how prices shift day by day
- Hopper – Uses AI to predict price drops
- Skyscanner – Ideal for comparing routes by the cheapest month
- Airfarewatchdog – Tracks flash sales and hidden deals
Pro Tip: Use incognito mode when browsing to avoid cookies influencing price hikes
Book Smarter and Cheaper
The best time to book flights in 2025 isn’t one-size-fits-all, but being strategic about when and how you book can pay off.
Plan early, use flight alert tools, and avoid peak booking days. Whether you’re eyeing a summer escape or an off-season adventure, knowing when to book flights makes all the difference.
Want to streamline your whole trip? Check out Trip Planning Tools to make your life easier.
