As a follow up to our post detailing the best times to book a flight ahead of a vacation, we pivot and take a look at when you should book International flights.
This study by CheapAir.com, analyzed days to book trips in various regions globally and found significant differences throughout 900 million airfares in 3,000 markets.
To Canada’s delight, they have the flexibility of the shortest window to get the best rate at 66 days ahead of a trip, meanwhile those in the Caribbean need to factor in more time at 207 ahead of a vacation.
From CheapAir.com, here are more results:
Canada: 43 days to 10.5 months out is the Prime Booking Window, and 115 days was, on average, the maple syrupy sweet spot. January and October are cheap, while July and December are not.
Mexico: 21 days to 10 months is the Prime Booking Window, and 80 days delivered the fiesta-worthy low fare. Book early for Christmas, but relax if you plan to travel in September, the cheapest month.
Caribbean: Argh!!! 21 days to 238 days be ye Prime Booking Window, and 99 days out marks the spot. December be extra booty, but in September be flights worth looting. *
Central America: 20 to 202 days out is the Prime Booking Window, and 78 days is cheapest on average. As with other lush, tropical destinations, Christmas gets pricey, but September is a bargain.
South America: 23 to 321 days is a wide Prime Booking Window. 84 days was best on average. December will be expensive, and October has the best values.
Europe: 59 days to 10 months is the Prime Booking Window, and 200 days is best on average. To save, book a hub like London or Paris then take a budget hopper to your destination. Avoid July, try February.
Africa: Buy 112 to 10 months out; 199 is best on average. Volatility is low, so don’t stress. Europe visits Africa in July, so book that once-in-a-lifer in February for the best value.
South Pacific: 21 to 321+ days out is the window, and 186 days is best. The average $1,667 fare is rougher than a coconut shell, so find value in May, or be prepared for a spendy December.
Asia: Buy 71 to 287 days out; 160 is best on average. November is cheapest, and December is most expensive. Yes, Asia is a huge region, so use the When to Buy Flights widget to zero in.
Middle East: The window is 83 days to 10.5 months out, and 196 is best on average. Travel in the winter if possible and avoid expensive July. It’s foolishly hot then anyway.
