Travel enthusiasts who have relied on the long-standing advice of booking flights on Tuesdays may need to rethink their strategy. According to Expedia’s recently released “Air Hacks” report for 2026, analyzing millions of flight data points, Fridays have emerged as the optimal day for purchasing airline tickets. The analysis indicates that domestic flights booked on Fridays are approximately 14% cheaper compared to those bought on Sundays, which remains the most expensive day for ticket purchases. International fares also reflect a similar trend, being around 8% lower when booked on Fridays.
In terms of travel months, August is projected to be the least expensive time to fly, while July is expected to be the busiest. For those looking for a calm flying experience, Tuesday retains its reputation as the best day to travel, often leading to quieter airports. February is highlighted as the least crowded month for air travel, further supporting travelers who prefer a more peaceful journey.
The report identifies specific dates that are likely to offer relaxed travel conditions in 2026, including February 25, March 4, and November 18, all falling on a Wednesday. Conversely, Sunday is anticipated to be the most hectic day for air travel. The Fridays preceding significant holidays such as Memorial Day and Independence Day, as well as the Saturday before Labor Day, are predicted to be peak travel days.
When it comes to timing purchases, the advice has shifted. Booking flights more than 180 days in advance, a practice once thought to yield the best prices, is now associated with some of the highest ticket costs. Expedia suggests that the sweet spot for purchasing tickets lies between 31 to 45 days before departure. For travelers who are willing to wait until closer to their travel date, buying tickets 8 to 14 days out could lead to savings of around $225, though this can limit seat choices and flexibility.
For holiday travel, however, the recommendation remains to purchase tickets well in advance. Specifically, Travel + Leisure advises that tickets for Thanksgiving should be secured at least two months prior, while Christmas flights are best booked at least 70 days ahead. As travel patterns evolve, adapting to new trends is essential for savvy travelers looking to save money while ensuring a smooth journey.
