Google Reveals Cheapest Times to Book Flights From Five Years of Data
Domestic fares hit their lowest around 39 days out and international fares around 89 days out, according to aggregated Google Flights data.
Google has shared findings on the historically cheapest times to book flights, drawn from five years of aggregated Google Flights data. The company published the guidance on October 5, 2026, according to androidauthority.com.
For domestic trips, prices have historically been lowest around 39 days before departure. International fares have bottomed out around 89 days out, with prices generally staying in their lower range between 50 and 133 days before departure.
Timing varies by trip. Thanksgiving flights have been cheapest around 34 days ahead, Christmas fares around 56 days, spring break trips at more than 50 days out, and summer trips around 21 days. Routes to Europe have hit their lowest prices around 90 days before departure, while Mexico and Caribbean flights have been cheapest around 43 days out.
The day of the week matters less than the dates themselves. Booking on a Wednesday has been slightly cheaper than Tuesday, by about 1.4% compared with Sunday. Departing on Monday and returning on Tuesday or Wednesday has saved around 14% versus weekend travel, with domestic savings reaching 20% compared with leaving and returning on a Sunday. Nonstop flights have averaged around 20% more than connecting itineraries.
Google Flights and AI Mode in Search can show travelers the cheapest time to book for a destination and travel dates they already have in mind.
Quick answers
When are domestic flights cheapest to book?
Historically around 39 days before departure, according to five years of aggregated Google Flights data.
When should I book an international flight?
International fares have hit their lowest around 89 days before departure and generally stay in their lower range between 50 and 133 days out.
Where can I see the cheapest time to book for my trip?
Google Flights and AI Mode in Search can show the cheapest time to book once you enter a destination and travel dates.