The Best Days of the Week to Buy Plane Tickets
Are you frustrated with skyrocketing airfare prices? Many travelers wonder if there’s a secret formula for finding cheap flights. In 2025, the truth is clear: the day of the week you book your plane tickets matters. This complete guide will show you exactly which days give you the lowest fares, how to use flight comparison sites, and which travel credit cards help you save even more.
Why Timing Matters When Booking Flights
Airlines use complex algorithms to adjust ticket prices. The same seat could cost $200 today and $350 tomorrow. Booking on the best days of the week often saves travelers hundreds of dollars, especially during peak holiday seasons. Airlines release discounted fares in cycles, and smart travelers know when to strike.
The Best Days to Book Plane Tickets in 2025
1. Tuesday and Wednesday: The Cheapest Days
According to multiple airfare studies, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are historically the cheapest days to buy plane tickets. Airlines release new deals on Monday evenings, and by Tuesday, competitors match prices. That’s when flight comparison sites like Skyscanner or Kayak display the biggest savings.
2. Saturday for Last-Minute Deals
Surprisingly, Saturdays can offer last-minute cheap flights. Airlines often discount unsold weekend flights to fill empty seats. If you’re flexible, Saturday bookings can work in your favor.
3. Avoid Fridays and Sundays
Fridays and Sundays are the most expensive days to buy tickets. With business travelers booking Friday returns and families booking Sunday flights, demand spikes. That means higher prices and fewer options.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
Booking on the right day is only part of the equation. Timing matters too:
- Domestic flights: 1–3 months in advance
- International flights: 3–6 months in advance
- Holiday travel: As early as possible (6–9 months ahead)
Extra Travel Hacks to Save More
- Use Google Flights flexible date search to find the cheapest days.
- Book flights from alternative airports (e.g., Oakland vs. San Francisco).
- Clear cookies or use incognito mode to avoid dynamic pricing.
- Pay with a travel credit card for extra rewards.
- 📖 Recommended read: How to Book Flights During Peak Holiday Seasons
- 🌴 You might also like: Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights in 2025
Why Travel Credit Cards Are Game Changers
Pairing smart booking days with the right travel rewards card can lead to free flights. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture offer points that convert directly to airline miles. Check out our guide on maximizing credit card points for free flights.
PASONA Method: The Emotional Angle
Problem: You’re tired of overpaying for plane tickets and wasting hours hunting deals.
Agitation: Every missed discount means less money for hotels, tours, or even your dream trip.
Solution: Book on the right days, use comparison sites, and apply credit card rewards.
Offer: Follow this guide and save hundreds in 2025.
Narrow Down: Focus on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for the best fares.
Action: Click the button above and compare today’s deals now!
Conclusion
Knowing the best days of the week to buy plane tickets can completely change the way you travel. Combine these strategies with travel credit card rewards, flight comparison tools, and flexible booking dates, and you’ll maximize savings while enjoying stress-free planning in 2025.