Best time to buy: Three to 10 months before your travel date. Cheapest months to travel: February and March. Most expensive months to travel: August and December. Fares in spring and fall tend to be marginally better — roughly $25 less — than those in winter and summer.

Historically and according to recent 2026 travel data, August has emerged as the cheapest month for international flights, with fares averaging nearly 30% lower than peak periods like December. This trend is largely driven by the "back-to-school" cycle; as families prepare for the new academic year in late August, the demand for long-haul leisure travel drops sharply, forcing airlines to lower prices to fill seats. January is another strong contender for the cheapest month, particularly for flights departing from the U.S. and Europe, as travelers recover from holiday spending and avoid winter travel. Mid-week departures, specifically on Wednesdays, continue to be the most cost-effective days to fly. For international travelers, the "booking sweet spot" is typically 31 to 45 days before departure. By choosing to fly during these "shoulder" periods, travelers can save an average of $190 to $250 per ticket compared to booking during the high summer or winter holiday windows.