Booking Flights On Tuesday? Google’s New Data Shows Why That’s Not Saving You Money

For years, savvy travelers have religiously booked their flights on Tuesdays, believing it to be the magical day when airfares drop to their lowest. This widespread practice has become almost gospel in travel circles, with countless articles and experts reinforcing the idea that booking on certain weekdays could save significant money.

However, recent data from Google Flights has completely upended this long-held belief, revealing it as perhaps the biggest myth in holiday travel planning.

According to information shared with Travel + Leisure, the day of the week you book your flight has virtually no impact on the price you pay, with only a negligible 1.3% difference between the traditionally “cheapest” day (Tuesday) and the “most expensive” day (Sunday).

Timing Matters More Than Day Of The Week

“It’s worth knowing that you won’t save much by booking on any particular day of the week,” said James Byers, group product manager for Google search, in a statement to Travel + Leisure. Instead of focusing on which day to book, Google’s analysis of flight prices across 4,000 markets between 2021 and 2025 suggests travelers should pay attention to how far in advance they book.

For domestic flights, booking approximately 39 days in advance typically offers the best rates. For international travelers, securing tickets at least 49 days before departure is recommended. The optimal booking window also varies by destination. European trips typically offer better deals when booked 48 days or more before departure, while Caribbean- and Mexico-bound travelers should aim for 50 days in advance.

For those planning holiday travel, Google has specific recommendations. Thanksgiving flights should ideally be booked 35 days ahead, while Christmas travelers should secure their tickets 51 days before departure. This advance planning can make a significant difference in how much travelers pay during these high-demand periods.

While the specific day you book might not matter much, the day you choose to fly makes a substantial difference. Travelers who fly on Mondays through Wednesdays can save approximately 13% compared to flights on weekends, according to Google’s data.

Google’s Additional Money-Saving Strategies

Beyond timing considerations, Google recommends several other strategies for budget-conscious travelers. Setting price alerts can notify you when fares drop for your desired route. Examining price history data through Google Flights can help identify patterns and potential future drops. For those with flexible schedules, booking flights with layovers can result in average savings of 22% compared to nonstop options.

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