Whether you’re flying home for the holidays or dreaming of a European escape, finding a great deal on airfare always feels like a win. Google Flights has released new data showing when travelers are most likely to score the lowest prices – and the timing may surprise you.
According to Google’s updated 2025 insights, based on four years of aggregated flight data, the best time to book depends on where and when you’re traveling. The findings come as searches for “best time to book flights” hit an all-time high this summer, showing just how eager travelers are to outsmart rising airfares.
For most trips, booking early remains the safest bet. But if your top priority is getting the cheapest fare, Google Flights can help you pinpoint the right moment. The platform now highlights a “cheapest time to book” feature under search results, showing when fares for your specific route are typically at their lowest.
If you’re planning domestic travel, the lowest prices tend to appear about 39 days before departure, with the ideal window ranging from 23 to 51 days. For international flights, the optimal booking window typically begins around 49 days or more before your trip, so booking early is crucial.
For holiday travel, Google’s data reveals clear booking patterns. Thanksgiving flights are cheapest roughly 35 days in advance, with the low-price range falling between 24 and 59 days. Those heading out for Christmas should aim to book about 51 days before departure, typically from mid-October to mid-November, when fares drop into their most affordable range.
For spring break getaways, prices are lowest around 43 days before travel, while summer vacation deals tend to appear about 21 days before departure. Trips to Europe are cheapest when booked at least 48 days ahead, while travelers headed to Mexico or the Caribbean can often save the most by booking around 50 days in advance.
Day of the week still makes only a small difference. Historically, Tuesday has been the cheapest day to book, but only about 1.3 percent lower than Sunday, the most expensive day. Travel days matter more: flying between Monday and Wednesday can save around 13 percent compared to weekend departures.
And for those willing to take a detour, connecting flights can make a noticeable difference. Google’s data shows that choosing a layover instead of a nonstop flight saves travelers an average of 22 percent.
With AI-powered tools like the new Flight Deals feature and real-time price tracking alerts, Google Flights is making it easier for travelers to turn data into savings. For anyone planning 2025 adventures, the key takeaway is clear – timing your booking window just right can make all the difference between an average fare and a great one.
