I love when I get a press release that isn’t more of the same bogus crap claiming, “This groundbreaking technology is going to change the world.” Spoiler: It never will.
Google Flights just published a new, useful research report about when to buy airline tickets to get the lowest fare. This covers all airlines and doesn’t mean you must purchase your tickets through Google Flights.
Here’s everything you need to know, plus some extra tips to make sure you save big. Or share this with someone who travels to you around the holidays. Maybe they’ll spend the cash they saved on your present. Nice.
Best time to book for Christmas
If you’re planning a trip in mid-December, prepare to buy a ticket in early October. You’ll pay the lowest if you book 71 days before departure, Google says. This is a big change from last year’s recommended advice when prices were the lowest 22 days before the departure date.
- I did the math for you. If you want to head out the Friday before Christmas (Dec. 22), buy around Oct. 12. If you like flying on Christmas Day, book on Oct. 15.
Overall, the typical low price range is now 54-78 days before takeoff.
One thing that hasn’t changed compared to last year? A flight with a layover is cheaper than a direct. Weekday departures will save you cash, too.
Best time to book to Europe
Here’s research for the savvy world traveler: The golden window for the lowest average prices is 72 days (or even more) before your preferred departure. As the calendar pages flip and you inch closer to that 10-week mark, brace yourself because those airfares tend to soar.
So, if you’ve got European dreams and a passport itching for a new stamp, jumping on those deals without delay is wise.
Now, research from the Komando brain
I’ve had my wings clipped since May, when I got my corneal transplant. (It’s healing well, btw, and I get my stitches out in October.) Anyway, I usually go on at least four trips a year. I’m thinking of going to Prague to Czech it out. (I crack myself up sometimes!)
Here are a few tips I use to save money.
Support small: Don’t mind driving a little out of the way? Flights from bigger airports can be more expensive than the little guys. Include them in your holiday flight research to see if you can score some savings.
Be flexible: If your schedule allows, staying an extra day or two might get you the best deal. Change dates around to see which days are the cheapest to fly. Bonus points if you can work remotely or have extra vacation days to burn.
Ship it: Baggage fees are ridiculous. Instead of trying to cram all the gifts into your luggage, ship them to loved ones instead. It’s almost always cheaper than overweight luggage fees.
Automate the process: No one has time to pop in and check flight prices constantly. Online flight trackers send you alerts when prices drop. Options include Google Flights, Kayak, Hopper, Going and Airfarewatchdog.
Pro tip: Ask your family to ship your gifts to avoid fees on your flight home. A well-meaning relative might not realize it’ll cost you an arm and a leg to get your new Dutch oven home.
✈️🌍🎄If you’re dreaming of sipping mulled wine in a European Christmas market or joining in holiday festivities closer to home, the early bird doesn’t just get the worm; in this case, it gets the best seat at the best rate!
