The short answer is: there's no single magic time. But there are patterns — and knowing how to use them to your advantage can significantly lower the cost of your next ticket.
A flight's price changes constantly, based on demand, seat availability, and competition between airlines. Instead of waiting for a flash sale, combine lead time, flexible dates, and price alerts.
Key takeaway
Quick Summary
to depart
Wednesdayto return
to depart
Wednesdayto return
round trip
Biggest average savingsPlanning
Best Time to Book
The ideal window changes depending on the distance and time of year. Use these ranges as a starting point — never as a fixed rule.
| Trip Type | Best Time to Book | Safe Margin |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic flightsOutside holidays | 30 to 50 days ahead | Good flexibility |
| South AmericaNeighboring countries | 45 to 75 days ahead | Good flexibility |
| International flightsEurope, US, and Asia | 3 to 6 months ahead | Plan ahead |
| Peak seasonHolidays and long breaks | 6 to 10 months ahead | Plan ahead |
How to search
7 Tools to Find the Best Price
Use the comparison tool's features in whatever order makes the most sense for your trip. The more flexible your plans, the better the combinations.
- 01
Open search
When the destination is still undecided, search by region or by budget. It's the fastest way to discover deals you weren't even considering.
- 02
Direct or connecting
Compare direct and layover flights. Sometimes a few extra hours in transit significantly lower the final price.
- 03
Price calendar
Open the whole month to see the cheapest days. Shifting your departure or return by 24 hours can already make a difference.
- 04
Nearby airports
Consider alternative airports at your origin and destination, factoring in the cost and time to get there.
- 05
Price trend
Keep an eye on the trend shown in the search results. It's not a guarantee, but it helps you decide between buying now or waiting a bit longer.
- 06
Price-drop alert
Turn on the alert for your chosen route and dates. That way you can track changes without having to redo the search every day.
- 07
Compare airlines
Look at price, baggage, seat selection, and rebooking rules before deciding — the cheapest option isn't always the best deal.
“What matters more than buying at 3 a.m. is building a sense of what prices look like. Search early, track the route, and recognize a good fare the moment it shows up.”
Natália Duarte
Travel expert, guest columnist
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
What's the best day of the week to buy a plane ticket?
There's no universal day — fares are dynamic. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be good days to fly, but the best time to buy depends on the route and current demand.
Is it true that flights get cheaper in the middle of the night?
There's no consistent evidence of that. Airlines' systems update fares continuously, at any time of day.
Is it cheaper to buy a round trip together?
Often, yes, especially on international flights. Even so, it's worth comparing separate one-way legs and different airlines before booking.
When should I buy a ticket to travel over a holiday?
The sooner, the better. Start tracking the route six to ten months ahead, especially for New Year's, Carnival, and school vacations.
Is it worth waiting for a sale?
Only when your dates are flexible. If you've already found a price within your budget and your trip has a fixed date, waiting can increase the risk of paying more later.
Who wrote this
Who wrote this
Equipe Viajante Promo
We turn price and availability data into simple guidance to help you save on your next trip.
Natália Duarte
Journalist specializing in tourism and buying behavior, with stories published in Brazil and abroad.