Summer is the perfect season for a vacation – whether you’re taking the kids along or enjoying a break on your own. If you’re looking to save on travel costs (or at least cut down expenses), pay attention to these tips. The key takeaway is that the best deals arise when demand is low. Plus, you’ll encounter fewer crowds at the airport.
by Rick Seaney
Let’s explore some wallet-friendly dates to consider, along with specific days for flying.
Affordable Travel Dates – United States
The following insights apply broadly to most routes, though variations may occur, which is why I always advise travelers to compare flights.
• May 16: This is the final opportunity to kick off your journey with spring prices in effect. Starting May 17, expect an increase in pre-summer fare rates, so plan to leave before this date.
• June 9: This marks the last day to benefit from lower prices prior to the peak summer travel period. Just remember, you only need to depart by this date; completing the trip afterward isn’t necessary.
• Aug. 1: After this date, a slight decrease in weekday flight prices can be expected, although weekend rates remain unchanged.
• Aug. 23: Postponing your trip until this date can lead to significant savings; it signifies the beginning of many U.S. airlines’ budget-friendly fall season. Prices usually drop considerably.
Affordable Travel Dates – Europe
For European trips, the same principles apply as those for U.S. flights.
• May 16: This is the last chance to snag spring fares; prices will increase starting May 17 as Europe transitions to its peak travel season.
• Aug. 23: On this date, expect prices to decrease, with another possible drop observed in mid to late October.
Affordable Travel Dates – Asia
• May 31: This is the last opportunity for lower fares prior to the summer rush.
• Aug. 1: A small decrease in flight prices will likely occur on this day.
• Aug. 23: A more noticeable drop in fares can be anticipated.
• Sept. 12: Another small fare reduction might be seen around this time, though it will depend on the airline.
Cheapest Days to Fly – Domestic and International
Typically, weekday flights are more budget-friendly than those on weekends. However, three specific days stand out as the most economical for U.S. travel: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
This could be an ideal moment to shift your perspective on vacation timing – consider departing on a Tuesday and returning on Saturday, or even just traveling one of the ‘cheaper days’ to optimize your savings.
For more of Rick Seaney’s best travel dates for 2016, visit farecompare.com/travel-advice/magic-dates-cheapest-days-to-fly-in-2016.
Rick Seaney is a travel expert and CEO of FareCompare | Farecompare.com
