There’s only one thing better than jetting off for some winter sun when it’s cold outside: Doing it on a budget!
Let’s face it, none of us have an unlimited pot of money.
And the less we spend on our flights to arrive at our dream vacation spot, the more cash we’ll have left to spend when we get there.
So how do you find those elusive cheap flights?
Google Flights has analyzed their booking data and found that these are the best times to book your flights if you want the cheapest flights this winter:
When To Book The Cheapest Flights To Mexico
According to Google Flights the best time to book an international flight is at least 50 days before take off, with the lowest average prices dropping 101 days before you want to fly.
But when it comes to booking the cheapest flights to Mexico, the normal rules don’t apply!
If you want to get the cheapest possible flights to Mexico, you’ll need to hold your nerve a little longer.
Google Flights has found that prices for traveling from the U.S. to both Mexco and the Caribbean are historically at their lowest 44 days before departure, with the price range for low flights being between 26-68 days before you take off.
So if you want to land in Mexico on December 23 so you can spend Christmas in the sunshine, for example? Then you need to book your flight on November 9 to get the best price!
And if Thanksgiving in the sun is more your vibe then you’ll need to book your flights by October 14 for the cheapest flight options, if this same pattern holds true.
Mexico is a dream vacation destination for American travelers looking for winter sun. And it’s a great place to spend the holiday season.
In fact, Google listed Cancun as the 2nd most searched destination for American travelers this holiday season.
Winter In Europe
Does this same rule apply if you want to escape this winter but would rather experience the cold and culture of Europe during the holiday season?
The simple answer is no! Booking flights to Europe is a whole different kettle of fish. And you’ll need to plan a little further ahead.
Trips to Europe if you’re departing from the U.S. have historically been cheapest 94 days before your departure date.
However, the same rules for international travel that I mentioned above also apply here. Always book at least 50 days before departure to get the prices: don’t wait until the very last minute or your wallet won’t thank you!
So if you want to arrive in Europe on December 23 to spend Christmas there?
Then you need to think fast! The cheapest day to book your flights will be September 19, which is next week.
Other Tips To Get The Cheapest Possible Flight Prices
Of course, predicting when flights will be at their cheapest isn’t an exact science, nor would everyone be doing it.
But they should give you a good idea of when to start comparing flight prices and when to book!
It’s also interesting to note that although some people swear by booking flights on a Tuesday, the reality is that flights booked on Tuesdays (the cheapest day to book) are only 1.3% cheaper than flights booked on Sundays (the most expensive day to book).
So if you find a price that works for you don’t hold off just because you’re not looking on a Tuesday!
What can make a difference isn’t the day you book but the day you fly.
Flying on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday has been found to be 13% cheaper than flying on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday for international flights.
If you’re looking at domestic flights then this price difference jumps up to 20%.
And if you’re on a tight budget, and don’t mind inconveniencing yourself to save a buck or two then look for flights with a layover instead of nonstop flights.
Nonstop flights have been found to be 25% more expensive than flights with stops.
And if you’re on a long-haul flight or traveling as a family, that can add up to a significant chunk of money!
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