Finding affordable flights can sometimes feel as challenging as snagging a decent snack on an airplane. However, travel experts agree on one pivotal strategy for securing better airfare: flexibility. “It’s our No. 1 advice for travelers looking for deals,” said James Byers, head of the product team at Google Flights. Being flexible can involve flying midweek rather than on weekends or choosing to travel outside peak seasons for specific destinations. “Try not to lock yourself into a really specific date,” Byers advised, noting that even shifting your travel by a day or two can lead to significant savings.
Data from Google Flights reveals that Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are typically the cheapest days to fly. Tickets on these midweek days can be 13% less expensive than those booked for weekends. An analysis of round-trip airfares from January 2021 to August 2025 covered trips from the 4,000 busiest U.S. markets, confirming that choosing a midweek departure could save travelers about $42 per ticket on average-approximately 14% less than weekend fares. Notably, Sunday often ranks as the priciest day to fly, with Hayley Berg, Hopper’s lead economist, emphasizing that those planning a weekend getaway can save significantly by traveling midweek and returning on Saturday or Monday instead of Sunday.
Of course, holiday travel can complicate these guidelines. For instance, the day before Thanksgiving is often the most expensive in the lead-up to the holiday, according to Sally French, a travel analyst at NerdWallet. Additionally, skipping weekend travel can result in considerable hotel discounts. Those checking in on Friday or Saturday typically pay a premium exceeding 20%, or about $50 more per night, compared to the cheaper check-in days of Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.
A common misconception among travelers is that the day they book their flight greatly influences the price. French debunked this myth, stating, “It’s not the day that you book that’s important; it’s the day that you fly.” Although Tuesday has historically been viewed as the cheapest day to book, it is only marginally less expensive than Sunday, with prices showing only a 1.3% difference.
Furthermore, broader flexibility can contribute to more affordable airfare. Traveling during a destination’s shoulder or off-season can lead to significant savings. For example, domestic travelers in 2024 may save 40%, or about $150, by shifting their trips from peak summer months to September or October. However, factors like school schedules and rigid work commitments can limit flexibility for some travelers. Tours and cruises often come with fixed schedules, making it less feasible to extend trips at additional costs.
There are several other strategies travelers can employ to save money on airfare. Opting for flights with layovers instead of non-stop routes can yield savings of about 22%, according to Google Flights. Packing essential items in carry-on luggage is crucial in case checked bags don’t make it to connecting flights. Booking well in advance is also advisable; the ideal timeframe typically is 39 days ahead for domestic flights and 49 days for international travel.
By staying adaptable and well-informed, travelers can navigate the complexities of airfare and secure better deals for their journeys.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/13/google-flights-advice-cheap-airfare.html
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Publish Date: 2025-09-13 16:30:00
