The Best Time to Book Summer Flights, According to Google Flights
Google Flights has released a robust travel report after aggregating four years of airfare data and trends to provide US travelers with an overarching guide on finding the cheapest flights and the best times to book them. I have reviewed this report thoroughly and highlighted the most important takeaways below to help you find a flight in your budget and let you relax while traveling instead of stressing about money.
For more key travel tips, explore these travel essentials you need for every vacation and then take a look at this travel checklist. You should also review CNET's roundup of the best headphones for travel.
How to Use Google Maps Like a Pro How to Use Google Maps Like a Pro
Click to unmute
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Skip Backward
Skip Forward
Next playlist item
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
9:29
Loaded :
6.27%
0:00
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
9:29
Share
Fullscreen
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text
Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background
Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background
Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Close Modal Dialog
This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.
Close Modal Dialog
This is a modal window. This modal can be closed by pressing the Escape key or activating the close button.
How to Use Google Maps Like a Pro
What days are the cheapest to fly?
CNET
If you're planning to book a flight, you're likely trying to find the most budget-friendly option. According to Google Flights, the cheapest flights are available when flying on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, with Tuesday being the cheapest day, according to the historical flight data.
Flying early- to midweek can save travelers 13% to 20% on airfare compared to flying on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, with Sunday the most expensive day to fly.
Do layovers on flights save you money?
It may come as no surprise that flights with layovers are cheaper than nonstop flights but you may not realize just how significant those savings can be. The Google Flight data shows that travelers can save 25% by booking a flight with a layover instead of a nonstop flight.
Which day of the week is the cheapest for booking flights?
There are certainly cheaper days to fly, there aren't really cheaper days to book. "There's not much benefit to buying your tickets on a certain day of the week," according to the Google report.
Google Flights does state that Tuesdays are typically the cheapest day of the week to book, according to the data, but Tuesday bookings are only 1.3% cheaper than the most expensive day, Sunday.
Is it cheaper to book flights far in advance?
To wait or not to wait? According to Google, it's better to book your travel far in advance, especially if you need to fly on a specific day or time. There are some patterns you can analyze to decide whether it's better to wait for lower prices or book now based on specific scenarios, destinations and dates of travel.
For domestic flights, the prices are generally at their lowest between 21 and 52 days before your trip -- with 38 days before departure being the cheapest day to book on average.
For international flights, the prices are generally lowest between 50 and 101 days before your trip, but it's generally best practice to book as early as you can. According to Google, "Average prices don't meaningfully drop anytime before departure but they usually do start to rise within 50 days of the flight itself" for international travel from the US.
Never miss out on the cheapest airfare again./Gianmarco Chumbe/CNET
When is the best time to book a flight in every season?
Here's what Google says about the best times to book holiday flights and vacation trips to certain popular destinations.
Summer break: The cheapest domestic flights in July and August are usually available 13 to 43 days in advance, with 21 days before departure being the cheapest day on average to book.
Thanksgiving: The cheapest domestic flights over the Thanksgiving holiday are usually available 26 to 59 days in advance, with 45 days out being the cheapest -- meaning it's best to book Thanksgiving flights in early October.
Christmas: The cheapest domestic flights over the winter holidays are usually available 36 to 72 days in advance, with 58 days out being the cheapest. It's best to book Christmas or holiday travel in the latter half of October.
Spring break: The cheapest domestic flights in March and April are available between 33 to 59 days in advance, with 44 days before departure being the cheapest time to book on average.
When is the best time to book a flight to Europe?
International flights to Europe from the US are usually cheaper 50 or more days before departure, with 94 days out being the cheapest day to book on average. As with all international travel, it's generally best practice to book as early as you can.
When is the best time to book a flight to Mexico or the Caribbean?
International flights to Mexico and the Caribbean are the one exception to the broader international trend, according to Google. That's because flights are generally at their lowest between 26 and 68 days in advance, with 44 days out being the cheapest.
For more, check out CNET's picks for the best travel credit cards in 2025. You can also explore the 12 travel essentials you always need to pack and the worst airlines for flight delays and cancellations.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftl-amazon-one-off-yeti-packing-cubes-tout-d97e9cdbd9f9491d9acc5717d2d31801.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
37 minutes ago
- Travel + Leisure
Travelers Use This Multi-purpose Yeti Packing Cube for Storing Clothes, Toiletries, and More—and It's $25
There are countless packing cubes to pick from out there, and they all serve the same function, which is to organize and condense the items in your suitcase. But some are hardier than others, particularly when they're built for bona fide outdoor adventure. The Yeti Crossroad Packing Cubes are designed to take a beating, and reviewers say they hold 'everything but the kitchen sink.' Whether you use them for storing gear on camping trips or to keep your mess of charging cables contained in your carry-on, you might find them to be the toughest and most versatile accessory in your luggage. Find out why customers call them 'a wise investment' for all kinds of travel. $25 at Amazon $25 at These Yeti packing cubes come in three sizes. The small (7.5 by 7 by 2 inches) is good for gadgets and cords or socks and underwear. The medium (7.7 by 11 by 2 inches) is a great size for toiletries. And the large (11.25 by 11 by 2.5 inches) is big enough to fit full outfits. One reviewer said the medium held 'a bath sponge, comb/brush, deodorant, makeup, full-size body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, full-size baby powder,' and more. Another reviewer wrote that the large fit 'four shirts, two shorts, and one pair of pants.' Although they aren't marketed as compression cubes, these organizers have a wrap-around expansion zipper that can be used to compress soft items or provide you with more space when needed. The Crossroads packing cubes are made of a special expedition-grade nylon that Yeti calls TuffSkin. It's the same material the brand uses for its best-selling Crossroads backpacks, inspired by the water and abrasion resistance of motorcycle gear. A strip of mesh at the bottom of the packing cube offers ventilation to prevent any moisture from building up while it's zipped shut. When you're back from your trip, you can turn them inside out, zip them up, and machine wash them along with the rest of your gear. $30 at Amazon $30 at More creative ways reviewers have used these packing cubes include as a shaving kit, a medicine bag, and on their own as underseat luggage (they have carrying handles). One said it's become a road-trip essential for their kids: 'I store them in the back of our SUV' packed with extra clothes and blankets, they wrote. 'I bought one a couple of years ago and I fell in love ... so I bought two more.' A cyclist said they use it for 'basically everything I carry in my purse. This way, I easily transfer everything to my bike bag or backpack without having to repack it all.' At $25 or more per cube, you can see why people call them an 'investment.' The price reflects their ability to be put through the wringer for several years. They might be for you if you're an outdoor adventurer or if you're just a regular traveler looking to get the most use from your gear. We found some more rugged packing cube options suitable for a plethora of activities, below. At the time of publishing, the price started at $25. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
London is booming with Canadian travellers — here's why it's the place to be in August
There has been a 54 per cent increase in August flight bookings from Canada to the British city over the last month, according to Skyscanner London is calling Canadians this summer, with travel to the U.K. being an incredibly popular choice for travellers. Information provided to Yahoo Canada from Skyscanner revealed that there has been a 54 per cent month-over-month increase in flight bookings from Canadian cities to London. From sites like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, lovely walks through cobblestone streets, interesting museums and great shopping, London's appeal is timeless. So it's no surprise that the city is frequently a popular destination for Canadians. Search for your next vacation on Skyscanner Why is London a trending destination for Canadian travellers? As Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner's travel trends and destinations expert highlighted, every neighbourhood in London "tells its own story." "London is also a city made for exploring. Wander through the bohemian streets of Camden, soak up the creative energy in Shoreditch, or take in the pastel charm of Notting Hill," Lindsay stated. "With award-winning restaurants, weekend pop-ups, live music, and theatre on every corner, there's always something new to discover, whether it's your first visit or your fifth." According to Skyscanner's 2025 Travel Trends Report, 35 per cent of Canadians aged 25 to 34 plan to travel to see a sporting event in 2025, and London is a great location for those travellers. "Whether it's the roar of a Premier League crowd, a day at one of its historic cricket grounds, or the magic of Wimbledon, the energy is unbeatable," Lindsay shared. "London, with its world-class stadiums and electric fan culture, is high on the list." How much does it cost to go to London in August from Canadian cities? Using Skyscanner search data, roundtrip flights from Toronto to London in August can currently be found for as low as $743. Flights from Vancouver to London currently start at $868, or $968 from Montreal. Check Skyscanner for up-to-date, live pricing for all flights. 3 expert tips on what to do in London While you still get to experience the summer weather, spend an afternoon at Kew Gardens. "As more people look for meaningful downtime during their trips, green spaces like Kew are becoming an essential part of the itinerary," Lindsay advised. "It's a quiet escape that still feels very much a part of London." Markets are spectacular in London, including Borough Market for the foodies, which has been particularly popular on TikTok recently. Portobello Road Market, Brick Lane Market, Old Spitalfields Market and Broadway Market are great for vintage and antique lovers. If you can get your hands on some tickets, going to a Premier League soccer (football) match is an amazing experience. "Football is more than just a game here. It's part of the rhythm of the city," Lindsay stressed. "The atmosphere in the stadium [is] electric. Even if you're not a hardcore fan, you can't help but feel part of it." Where to stay in London The Exhibitionist Hotel in Kensington is a 37-bedroom boutique hotel, located near the Natural History Museum, Royal Albert Hall and the famous Harrods department store. Unique art is a particularly interesting feature of the hotel, lining the walls of the lobby and guest rooms. Tribe London Canary Wharf is located in London's business district. The hotel has a 24-hour "social hub" with spaces for guests to work, chat or eat, and there's also a 24-hour grab and go counter with coffee and ready-to-eat meals and snacks. Tribe hotels are meant to suit "modern travellers" with "affordable luxury." The Hoxton, Holborn is located near Covent Garden, Oxford Street and the British Museum. Surrounded by charming city streets, the hotel's restaurant Rondo serves seasonal British dishes, and kids get a free main with each dining adult on Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The 220-room property has industrial inspired finishes, with particularly luxurious bathrooms. Skyscanner's Saved Feature: Save those deals to look at later Skyscanner has a number of features to make sure you save as much as possible on your vacation. Take advantage of the "Saved" feature. Start by browsing all the travel deals and when you see something you like, you can save it for later. Step 1: Find your flights and hotel. Step 2: Select the heart icon next to your top picks to save them for later. Make sure you're logged into your Skyscanner account. Pro tip: Download the Skyscanner app to create separate Saved lists for all the different trips you're planning. Tips for finding the cheapest flights If flight costs are getting you down, there are a few things Canadian travellers can do to ensure they're getting the best deal possible for their next vacation, both on the Skyscanner platform specifically and when looking for flights more generally. Beat the crowds: For flights that are filling up fast, you'll want to make sure you're looking at the monthly view on travel search sites like Skyscanner to see the best possible option available for flight dates. Set up alerts: Prices are always changing, so if you're hoping to travel to a specific destination, or on specific dates, set up a price alert so you can be quick if a deal comes up. Skyscanner specifically has a price alerts system for any cost changes. Consider "Everywhere": If you're hoping for a new adventure, or a little rest and relaxation, but you don't have a specific destination in mind, the "Everywhere" search on Skyscanner may be your new best friend to discover the most affordable vacation destination possible. Flexible dates: There may be certain times where you need to travel for specific dates, but the best deals are really revealed when you open yourself up to some flexibility. Even changing your travel dates by a day, or a week, can result in significant savings.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Why this U.S. airport was ranked the worst in the world for international airports - avoid any layover there!
If you're planning a trip and see Newark Liberty on your itinerary, here's what you should know before committing to a layover there. If you've traveled through Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), you probably don't need a study to tell you it's not the smoothest place to transit through. But just in case you needed the data to back up the feeling, several recent reports confirm it: Newark is one of the worst-ranked airports in the United States. Between chronic delays, an outdated layout, and a frustrating passenger experience that even a billion-dollar renovation hasn't fully resolved, it's no surprise that EWR consistently appears near the bottom of travel satisfaction surveys. If you're planning a trip and have a choice of where to connect, there are plenty of reasons to steer clear of Newark. What the rankings say According to an August 2024 study by Whitley Law Firm, Newark Liberty ranked as the third-worst airport in the United States. The study analyzed Google reviews and factored in key traveler pain points such as flight delays, cancellations, and service satisfaction. Only Aspen/Pitkin County Airport in Colorado and Santa Fe Municipal Airport in New Mexico ranked worse, but those are much smaller regional airports. Newark, on the other hand, is a major hub serving millions of passengers annually, which makes its low ranking far more concerning. Frequent flyers know that even short delays in a congested airport can have a ripple effect, especially if you're connecting to another flight. In The New York Times' May 2025 coverage of Newark's challenges, passengers cited outdated systems, lack of clear communication during emergencies, and poorly handled disruptions. The article spotlighted how recent security scares and weather events were compounded by the airport's inability to respond quickly or clearly, leaving travelers confused and stuck. Delay central: A risky layover choice Newark's history of delays is well documented. According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the airport consistently ranks near the bottom for on-time performance among major U.S. airports. There are several reasons for this. Newark is located in one of the most congested airspaces in the country. With LaGuardia and JFK nearby, air traffic controllers have to manage an overwhelming number of incoming and outgoing flights in a tight geographic area. A little fog or wind? Expect delays. What makes things worse is that these delays often aren't communicated clearly to passengers. Flights get pushed back by 20 minutes, then 40, then an hour, with little explanation or useful updates. If you have a tight connection, there's a real risk you'll miss your next flight. Delays are common, so a pair of noise-canceling headphones can help you block out the chaos while waiting for updates. Confusing layout and outdated terminals One of the most frustrating aspects of Newark Liberty is its terminal layout. The airport is divided into Terminals A, B, and C. There is no simple or efficient way to move between them if you're already inside security, and many travelers don't realize this until it's too late. If your connection involves switching terminals, especially if you're flying a mix of domestic and international airlines, you may have to exit one terminal, take a shuttle or AirTrain, and then re-clear security. This eats into your connection time and adds unnecessary stress. While Terminal A recently received a $2.7 billion renovation, the upgrades don't fix the larger issues. Not all airlines have moved into the new terminal, and Terminals B and C still suffer from aging infrastructure, unclear signage, and lack of cohesion between airlines. You can't always count on a smooth transfer even within the same airline alliance. Food, comfort, and cleanliness still lag Terminal C, used mostly by United Airlines, has made efforts to improve the traveler experience with updated food options and digital ordering. But outside of that, food and drink options remain limited, especially late at night or during off-peak hours. In Terminals A and B, you may find yourself choosing between a tired fast-food counter and a convenience store with overpriced sandwiches. Not ideal when you're stuck on a layover and need a decent meal or coffee. Food options can be scarce during off-hours, so consider bringing a pre-packed snack kit or a collapsible food container for flexibility. Comfort is also an issue. Seating can be hard to find during busy times, and it's not unusual to see people sitting on the floor or standing in long lines just to charge their devices. Restrooms are often overcrowded and not as clean as you'd expect in a major international airport. It's not a bad idea to pack a lightweight travel blanket for long waits, since seating is limited and terminals can get cold. Safety and emergency communication concerns In the New York Times' 2025 report, one issue stood out: lack of communication during emergency situations. Passengers shared stories of being left in the dark during terminal lockdowns, bomb scares, or severe weather events. Announcements were delayed, inconsistent, or completely missing. In an era when real-time information is critical, especially during unexpected events, this kind of communication breakdown is more than an inconvenience, it's a safety concern. If you're connecting through Newark during the winter or hurricane season, it's important to know how unprepared the airport can feel when things go wrong. Inconsistent customer service Staffing challenges aren't unique to Newark, but the airport seems to struggle more than most with consistent service. TSA lines are often slow, and PreCheck lanes aren't always open. When flights are delayed or canceled, airline counters become overwhelmed quickly. Many travelers report feeling that they're on their own. There are limited help desks or clear rebooking options during disruptions, and airline staff often appear as frustrated as the passengers they're trying to help. Wi-Fi and power access: Still not great Free Wi-Fi is available at Newark, but it's not always reliable. In some terminals, the signal is weak or inconsistent, which is frustrating when you need to rebook a flight or contact someone about your delay. Charging stations are scattered and not always functional. Unless you're in a lounge or lucky enough to find an open outlet, you might find yourself battling with others for a power source to charge your phone or laptop. To avoid scrambling for outlets, bring a reliable portable charger so you can stay connected even if charging stations are full or broken. So, should you Avoid a layover at Newark? If you have a choice, the answer is yes. There are better options nearby. JFK and LaGuardia have both made substantial infrastructure improvements and generally offer smoother transit experiences. Even Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which is farther south, has a more user-friendly layout and better on-time performance than Newark. Unless your itinerary is locked in with United Airlines and Newark is unavoidable, try to route your layover through a different hub. How to survive if you have no choice Sometimes, a Newark layover is unavoidable. If that's the case, here are a few tips: Give yourself extra time between connecting flights, especially if you're switching terminals. Pack snacks and water in case food options are closed or limited. Download your airline's app for updates on gate changes, delays, or cancellations. Bring a portable charger, as outlets can be hard to find. Familiarize yourself with the terminal map ahead of time so you know what to expect. Use the new Terminal A if your airline supports. It's your best shot at a decent experience. Final thoughts Newark Liberty International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, but its reputation continues to suffer. Despite high-profile investments and renovations, the overall passenger experience remains frustrating for many travelers. Whether it's due to constant delays, confusing layout, limited amenities, or communication issues, EWR is often more headache than hub. If you're booking travel with a layover and want to reduce stress, Newark probably shouldn't be your first choice. A little planning now can save you hours of frustration later. Learn how to travel comfortably, regardless of which class you're seated in on a plane by checking this out.
