The Best Times to Book Airline Tickets for Maximum Savings

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Essential Tips for Stress-Free International Travel

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a business trip, or a quick weekend getaway, finding the best deals on airline tickets can make a significant difference in your travel budget. Edmonton travelers have access to major airlines through Edmonton International Airport (YEG), but knowing when to book can mean the difference between a great deal and an overpriced ticket.

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to book your flights for maximum savings while ensuring you get the best value for your travel plans.

1. Book 1-3 Months in Advance for Domestic Flights

If you’re planning a trip within Canada or to nearby U.S. destinations, the sweet spot for booking is one to three months before departure.

  • Airlines often release discounted seats about 90 days before departure.
  • Prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, so last-minute deals are rare for domestic routes.
  • For peak travel seasons like Christmas, spring break, or long weekends, booking three to six months in advance is recommended.

Example: If you’re flying from Edmonton to Toronto in December, start searching for deals by September to lock in the lowest fare.

 

2. Book 3-6 Months in Advance for International Flights

For international travel, including flights to Europe, Asia, or South America, aim to book your tickets at least three to six months ahead.

  • Airlines adjust international fares based on demand, and tickets tend to be cheapest around six months before departure.
  • For peak-season destinations, such as Mexico in winter or Europe in summer, book six to nine months in advance to secure the best price.

Example: Planning a summer trip from Edmonton to London? Start checking fares in December or January for a June or July departure.

 

3. The Cheapest Days to Book Your Flight

Believe it or not, the day of the week you book your flight can affect the price.

  • Best Days to Book: Tuesday and Wednesday (Prices tend to be lower as airlines release discounted seats early in the week).
  • Worst Days to Book: Friday and Saturday (Prices spike as more travelers plan weekend getaways).

Tip: Search for flights on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings when airlines adjust fares after competitors release sales.

 

4. The Best Days to Fly for Cheaper Fares

Not only does when you book matter, but when you fly can significantly impact the price.

  • Cheapest Days to Fly: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday (Less demand, lower fares).
  • Most Expensive Days to Fly: Friday and Sunday (Higher demand for weekend travelers).
  • Red-Eye and Early Morning Flights: Consider flights before 6 AM or after 9 PM for even cheaper fares.

Example: If you’re booking a round-trip flight from Edmonton to Vancouver, departing on a Tuesday morning and returning on a Saturday afternoon will often be more affordable than a Friday-to-Sunday trip.

 

5. Avoid Peak Travel Times

Certain seasons and holidays cause ticket prices to surge due to high demand.

  • Winter Holidays: Mid-December to early January (Christmas & New Year’s)
  • Spring Break: March & April (Families and students travel heavily)
  • Summer Vacation: June to August (Europe, U.S., and popular resort destinations fill up fast)
  • Long Weekends: Flights before and after a holiday weekend in Canada tend to be pricey.

Solution: If possible, travel before or after peak seasons. Consider flying a week before Christmas or waiting until mid-January for winter vacations.

 

6. Set Price Alerts & Use Incognito Mode

  • Set Fare Alerts: Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Expedia to track prices and get notified when fares drop.
  • Search in Incognito Mode: Airlines use cookies to track searches, and repeated searches for the same route can result in higher fares.
  • Compare Different Airports: Sometimes, flying out of Calgary (YYC) instead of Edmonton (YEG) can offer better deals, especially for international flights.

 

7. Take Advantage of Airline Sales & Rewards Programs

Airlines frequently run flash sales and discount promotions. Stay ahead by:

  • Following airlines on social media (WestJet, Air Canada, Flair, etc.).
  • Signing up for email alerts from airlines and travel sites.
  • Using travel rewards programs like Aeroplan, WestJet Rewards, or AMEX points to reduce ticket costs.

Example: WestJet often runs seat sales on Tuesdays, and Aeroplan members can book flights using points for added savings.