The Cheapest Days of the Week to Fly Might Surprise You

If you’re planning your next getaway but want to stretch your travel budget, timing is everything. According to Smart Traveler, airfare prices can vary dramatically depending on the day of the week — and knowing when to book could save you hundreds.

Midweek Flights Offer Major Savings

Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays consistently come in at the lowest prices for both domestic and international travel. In Smart Traveler’s recent comparison of fares, midweek flights from Boston to Los Angeles or Paris were more than $100 cheaper than weekend departures. Saturday flights can also be a smart option for those who can’t leave midweek, often costing up to 20% less than Sunday fares — and offering a full day to recover before the workweek begins.

Why Fridays and Sundays Cost More

Fridays and Sundays remain the most expensive days to fly, largely because they’re the most convenient. Business travelers head home at the end of the week, while vacationers squeeze every last hour out of their trips. Airlines recognize the demand and raise prices accordingly — sometimes as much as 17% higher than midweek flights.

International Travelers Should Look to Thursdays

For international routes, Smart Traveler found that Thursday departures are typically the most affordable. A study by Expedia and the Airlines Reporting Corporation supports the finding, showing that mid-to-late-week flights tend to yield the best prices for global travel.

The Takeaway

Flexibility pays off. By adjusting your travel days to midweek, you can enjoy the same destination for less — leaving extra cash for experiences once you arrive.