When it comes to booking international flights, timing is everything. Whether you’re planning a bucket-list adventure, a beer-themed tour of Europe, or a long-overdue vacation abroad, finding the sweet spot for airfare pricing can save you hundreds of dollars. So how far ahead should you book an international flight to get the best deal?
When Is the Best Time to Book International Flights?
Let’s break it down.
The Best Booking Window for International Flights: 3 to 6 Months Out
Most travel experts agree that the best time to book an international flight is between 3 and 6 months before departure. During this window, airlines have typically released most of their seats, and pricing tends to be competitive. If you book too early, prices may still be inflated. Too late, and you risk higher fares or limited seat availability.
Of course, the best booking window varies depending on your destination, the time of year, and how flexible you are with your travel dates.
Booking Tips for High Season vs. Shoulder Season
High Season (Summer, Holidays): If you’re traveling during peak times—like July, August, or around Christmas and New Year’s—it’s smart to book as early as 6 to 9 months in advance.
Shoulder Season (Spring and Fall): These months often provide the best balance between price and availability. For most destinations, 3 to 5 months out is ideal for locking in a great deal.
Best Travel Apps for Finding International Flight Deals
Smart travelers don’t do all the legwork themselves—these apps can help you track, compare, and score the best fares:
- Google Flights – Ideal for researching routes, comparing airlines, and spotting price trends. Set fare alerts for your preferred dates and destinations.
- Hopper – This app predicts the best time to buy and notifies you when it’s time to book. It’s user-friendly and especially helpful for travelers with flexible dates.
- Skyscanner – Great for discovering the cheapest destinations or date combinations. Use the “Everywhere” search feature to explore affordable travel ideas.
- Kayak – Offers powerful fare comparison tools and tracks price fluctuations. You can also bundle hotels and rental cars if you’re planning a full itinerary.
- Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) – Not technically an app, but worth a mention. They send out curated flight deal alerts—sometimes with incredible international savings.
How Flexibility Can Save You Hundreds on Flights
If you have flexibility with your departure airport or travel dates, you’re more likely to score a better fare. Consider flying midweek or being open to alternative airports. Sometimes leaving a day earlier or later can significantly reduce the cost of your ticket.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking International Flights
- Waiting too long: Hoping for a last-minute deal on international travel rarely pays off.
- Booking way too early: While domestic flights may see price drops closer to departure, international flights typically don’t.
- Ignoring fees: Some budget carriers offer low base fares but tack on hefty charges for baggage, seat selection, and more.
Final Takeaway: Be Strategic and Use Technology
For most international trips, aim to book between 90 and 180 days out. Be especially proactive if you’re traveling during busy seasons or to popular destinations. Use technology to your advantage, and don’t wait too long if you see a good price—especially if you’re traveling with others or during high demand periods.
Happy deal hunting—and if your next adventure includes beer-themed travel abroad, even better. 🍻✈️
Looking for an unforgettable beer adventure? Join us on one of our upcoming Epic Beer Trips and experience world-class breweries, beautiful destinations, and travel camaraderie like no other. See our upcoming trips →
