What day of the week is best to book a flight internationally?

Ditch the Monday Blues, Book Your International Flight on Sunday for Serious Savings

Planning an international adventure? You’ve likely poured over destinations, itineraries, and accommodation options. But have you considered the day you actually book your flight? According to Expedia’s forthcoming 2025 air travel analysis, timing is everything, and Sunday could be your secret weapon to unlocking substantial savings on international airfare.

For years, conventional wisdom suggested booking flights mid-week, often on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, to snag the best deals. However, Expedia’s latest research suggests a significant shift. The analysis points to Sunday as the new sweet spot for booking international flights, offering travelers the potential to save up to 17% compared to booking earlier or later in the week.

Why the Sunday surge in savings? The reasons are multifaceted. Airline pricing strategies are incredibly dynamic, constantly adjusting to demand fluctuations. One theory suggests that leisure travelers, who are often more price-sensitive, tend to book flights on weekends, while business travelers book during the week. This difference in booking patterns can create a dip in demand on Sundays, leading airlines to offer lower fares to attract more passengers.

This 17% saving could translate to hundreds of dollars depending on your destination and class of service. Imagine the possibilities! That extra money could be used for upgraded accommodations, exciting excursions, or simply to extend your trip.

Here’s how to leverage this information to your advantage:

• Plan Ahead: Even though Sunday is optimal for booking, the real savings come from booking in advance. Generally, aiming for 2-4 months before your departure date for international travel is a good rule of thumb.
• Be Flexible: While Sunday booking is ideal, try to remain flexible with your travel dates. Sometimes shifting your departure or return date by a day or two can unlock even further savings.
• Utilize Price Alerts: Set up price alerts on various travel websites and apps. This way, you’ll be notified instantly when prices drop for your desired route, allowing you to pounce on a good deal.
• Compare Prices: Don’t rely on just one website. Compare prices across multiple platforms to ensure you’re getting the absolute best fare available.
• Consider Booking Bundles: Sometimes booking your flight and hotel together as a package can offer significant discounts.

So, the next time you’re planning that dream international getaway, remember to ditch the Monday blues and schedule some time on Sunday to search for flights. By strategically booking on the right day, you can transform your travel budget and unlock even more opportunities to explore the world. Happy travels!