To secure the best airfare for summer trips, follow the “rule of 90”: book international flights at least 90 days in advance and domestic flights within 90 days of departure. This advice is based on pricing trends, but if you find a great deal earlier, it’s best to lock it in.
When selecting travel dates, aim to avoid peak times. The first week of July is both the most popular and expensive, while mid-August offers significant savings—traveling then can save you an average of 29% compared to early July. The week of August 18 is typically the cheapest for U.S. travelers.
During busy periods, like summer, airlines may add extra flights to popular destinations. Keep an eye on flash sales or destination-specific deals when these schedule changes occur. If you’re unsure where to go, consider booking based on where you find a great deal, allowing you to reverse-engineer your vacation around airfare savings.
