Popular air travel myths debunked by Expedia — including the best day you should really book

They’ve got the ticket.

Whether it be to find love or to get a boost of dopamine, people want to vacation without breaking the bank.

About 31% of people said it was too expensive to travel this year, up from 24% in 2023, according to a Deloitte 2024 summer travel survey.

Fortunately, a new report from Expedia and the Airlines Reporting Corp has debunked the most popular travel myths, revealing the best ways to score a great deal.

Ticket prices are down — 1% for domestic flights and 4% for international flights — but these money-saving hacks will help you save even more.

Myth: Summer is the most expensive time to travel

The truth is that February and March are the most expensive months to get away — and August is actually the cheapest month to travel.

Domestic trips are up to 12% cheaper in August compared to February, and international flights are about 7% less in that summer month compared to March.

Myth: Tuesday is the best day to book a flight

Actually, purchasing flights on Sunday is likely the most affordable day to get your ticket.

Domestic flights are about 6% cheaper and international flights are about 17% cheaper when booking on a Sunday compared to Monday or Friday — the most expensive days to buy.

When you fly also matters.

Traveling for a domestic trip is cheapest on Saturday — by about 17% — while taking off for an international trip on a Thursday will save you the most cash, about 15%.

Myth: Airports are always hectic

Traveling on a Tuesday and/or in February is the quietest time to get away.

Once you’ve confirmed what day you want to leave, you need to decide what time is best.

Flights scheduled to take off between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. are 22% less likely to be canceled.

Myth: Booking farther in advance will get you the cheapest flight

Although planning your next vacation might seem like the best way to beat the winter blues, don’t confirm your summer travel just yet.

Booking domestic flights 63 to 72 days out can save travelers up to 16% compared to the average ticket price.

International travelers should book their departures about 43 to 54 days out to save up to 5%.