Timing plays an important part. Specifically, plane tickets usually don't get cheaper closer to the departure date. Instead, flights tend to be the most inexpensive when you book between four months and three weeks before your departure date.

In 2026, flights rarely go down in price as the departure date approaches. Most airline algorithms follow a "dynamic pricing" model where fares increase as the "bucket" of cheaper seats sells out. Data from 2025 and 2026 shows that the cheapest time to book domestic flights is 21 to 60 days in advance, while international flights should be booked 4 to 6 months early. "Last-minute deals" are largely a relic of the past, as airlines now prefer to fly with empty seats rather than devaluing their brand with massive price cuts. The only exception in 2026 is if a flight is significantly under-booked and an airline runs a flash sale, but this is a gamble. For most travelers, the "Goldilocks Window" of 1–2 months out remains the most reliable way to secure a fair price before the steep "business traveler" price hikes kick in.