Google Flights Knows the Best Time to Book for the Cheapest Plane Tickets

Spring is in full bloom, and summer is well on its way making it the perfect time to start planning your next trip. Once you’ve decided where you want to go, you’ll need to find the most affordable way to get there. While it’s entirely possible to hop a flight last minute, knowing when to book your next flight is crucial and directly affects how much it will cost.

To help take the guesswork out of booking, the team at Google Flights analyzed five years of airfare trends to pinpoint the cheapest times to buy tickets and when it’s best to fly. 

Whether you’re eyeing a weekend getaway or a longer spring break, here’s what the latest data says about scoring the best prices on flights this season.

Read more: Use Your iPhone to Easily Monitor Flight Delays and Cancellations

Watch this: How to Find Cheap Flights

09:24

When is the best time to book a flight in every season?

Here’s what Google said about the best times to book holiday and vacation trips.

Thanksgiving and Christmas. The cheapest flights over the winter holidays are usually available between 54 and 78 days in advance. For Christmas, start keeping an eye on fares 71 days in advance (in early October). 

Spring break. For domestic flights in March and April, Google said, prices are typically lowest 23 to 59 days before departure, hitting their lowest price 38 days out.

Summer vacation. For domestic flights in July or August, prices are typically lower 14 to 44 days out, hitting rock bottom 21 days before takeoff.

You can get money back on flights from Google if you overpay

If you book a flight through Google, be on the lookout for a colorful price guarantee badge. This means Google believes you won’t get a lower price than what’s listed before you travel. However, in the event that the price does go down, Google will pay you back the difference via Google Pay. Don’t worry, it’s not up to you to check the prices every day — Google will monitor the prices for you.

Consider a layover for cheaper plane tickets

If you don’t mind taking a little longer, Google said passengers can save an average of 20% on their ticket by booking a layover instead of a nonstop flight.

Other ways to find deals using Google Flights

Google suggests comparing current prices to previous days to see if you’re getting the lowest price.

Compare today’s airfare to older prices. Search your destination on Google and compare today’s rate to similar flights over the past 12 months. (Some search results will also indicate if the price is expected to change.)

Turn on Google Flight price tracking. Toggle on Track prices and include your travel dates and Google will send you an email if the prices change. If you don’t have a specific week in mind, you can select Any dates to get a notification if the price drops for flights departing in the next three to six months.

For more, check out CNET’s picks for the best travel credit cards.