Mountain View, October 8 — Google Flights’ annual travel report, released on October 5, 2026, has shed light on the patterns in airfare costs, notably debunking the common belief that booking flights on certain days of the week yields lower prices, stating that the idea is a ‘complete myth.’ The report’s findings indicate that the day of the week a traveler flies significantly affects price, with departing on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday and returning on Tuesday or Wednesday resulting in savings of about 14% compared to flying on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
Sunday is the most expensive day to fly, while Wednesday is typically the cheapest day to book, although only 1.4% cheaper than Sunday, making the difference insignificant. For domestic flights, flying early in the week versus departing and returning on Sunday can save up to 20%.
Additionally, booking connecting flights instead of nonstop flights can also save up to 20% on airfare. The report highlights that prices for domestic trips are generally lowest 22 to 57 days before departure, with 39 days out being the cheapest on average. In contrast, the lowest prices for international flights occur between 50 and 133 days prior, with 89 days out being optimal.
However, Google Flights advises that price drops during these low phases are ‘insignificant’ and recommends booking as early as possible, especially for specific travel dates or times.
Seasonal Guidance
The report includes seasonal guidance, noting that Thanksgiving flights are cheapest when booked 21 to 57 days in advance, with 34 days out being optimal, which falls in late September or early October. Christmas flights are best booked 33 to 67 days ahead, with 56 days out being the cheapest, which is late October to mid-November. Spring break flights are lowest 29 to 64 days prior, averaging 50 days out, and summer break flights are cheapest 20 to 47 days in advance, with 21 days out being optimal.
It would seem that while timing can yield savings, early booking remains the most reliable strategy for securing preferred travel schedules. As travelers look to plan their upcoming trips, they would do well to keep these findings in mind, and for all the noise surrounding flight booking strategies, the salient point is that a well-planned approach can result in significant savings.
Looking Ahead
As the holiday season approaches, travelers will be watching for any changes in airfare costs and looking for ways to save on their flights. With Google Flights’ report providing valuable insights into the patterns of airfare costs, travelers can make more informed decisions when booking their flights, and it will be interesting to see how these trends play out in the coming months.
