According to Expedia’s 2026 Air Hacks Report, Friday is revealed to be the most cost-effective day to book and fly in 2026. This conclusion is based on extensive flight data and consumer trends indicating a shift in travel habits.
In past years, mid-week days were considered the best time to book low fares, stemming from historical patterns. However, Expedia’s current findings suggest that Fridays are now associated with lower average ticket prices, particularly for flights scheduled later in the week when the demand from business travelers decreases.
Melanie Fish, head of public relations for Expedia Group Brands, explains that the early week has seen a decline in business travels, allowing leisure travelers to benefit from better prices. Fridays can save travelers up to 8% compared to peak travel days, notably Sundays.
While Fridays tend to be busy travel days, Tuesdays emerge as the least crowded and cheapest day for domestic flights, averaging 14% less than those flying on Sundays.
Timing is critical for getting the best fares. Expedia’s analysis shows that booking 15 to 30 days before departure can save travelers an average of $130, while booking 31 to 45 days in advance for international travel could save $190. Furthermore, for last-minute bookings, planning 8 to 15 days ahead could lead to savings of around $225.
Traveling during off-peak times, such as August—which sees prices 29% lower than December—can also contribute to savings. Additionally, January stands out as the cheapest month for domestic flights due to a decrease in demand after the holiday season.
In summary, flexibility in travel plans, while using pricing alerts and exploring multiple airports, can enhance savings. The data highlights Friday as a favorable day for securing lower airfare, revolutionizing how travelers approach booking strategies.
For more insights, refer to Expedia’s press release.