Want to stretch your travel budget in 2025? Expedia’s got your back.
The travel giant just released its highly anticipated 2025 Air Hacks Report, and it’s packed with insider tips, real data, and myth-busting insights that could help you save up to 25% on flights this year. Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway or already dreaming about spring break or holiday travel, these findings are worth knowing.
Big Surprise: August Is the Cheapest Month to Fly
Let’s start with one of the most surprising takeaways: August is the cheapest month to travel in 2025 — yes, even though it’s peak summer vacation season. That goes against what most travelers think, but the numbers don’t lie.
- Domestic travel in August vs. February? You could save about 12%.
- International travel in August vs. March? Expect savings around 7%.
So if you were holding off on an end-of-summer trip because you assumed prices would be sky-high, think again.
The Best Day to Book? It’s Still Sunday
Another long-standing myth gets busted again this year: the day you book your flight matters — and Sunday is still the best day to do it.
- Booking on a Sunday can save up to 6% on domestic and a whopping 17% on international flights, compared to booking on a Monday or Friday.
- This is the third year in a row Sunday has claimed the top spot. Time to make it a habit.
When to Fly? Aim for Thursdays and Saturdays
Sure, we all focus on when to book, but when you fly is just as important.
- Flying on a Thursday instead of a Sunday can save international travelers up to 15%.
- Saturday departures are the sweet spot for domestic trips — offering up to 17% in savings.
Avoiding high-demand departure days pays off, literally.
Booking Too Early Might Not Save You Money
Contrary to popular belief, booking way in advance isn’t always the smartest move. Expedia’s data shows that the “sweet spot” for snagging the best deal is actually closer to your departure date than you might think:
- Domestic flights: Book 1 to 3 months in advance to save around 25%.
- International flights: Aim for 18 to 29 days before takeoff to save about 17%.
Of course, last-minute deals are a gamble. Want peace of mind? Expedia’s Price Drop Protection (free for Gold and Platinum One Key members) refunds you the difference if the price drops after you book.
Good News: Flights Are Actually Cheaper This Year
In a world where everything seems to be getting more expensive, airfare is quietly going down.
- Domestic economy tickets are down 1% from last year.
- International economy? Down 4%.
In 2024, the average U.S. flight cost $462. This year, it’s slightly lower — and every dollar counts.
Want to Fly Premium? It’s More Affordable Now
Dreaming of a little extra legroom and a free drink or two? You’re not alone — and now might be the time to treat yourself.
- The price gap between economy and premium tickets is 10% smaller than it was back in 2019.
- Translation: Upgrading your seat won’t feel quite as out of reach as it used to.
Want to Avoid Crowds? Fly on a Tuesday
If you’re tired of packed gates and overhead bin battles, timing is everything.
- Tuesday is officially the quietest day of the week to travel.
- February is the quietest month, while July sees 65% more flights. That’s a big difference in airport traffic.
Want to Avoid Cancellations? Fly Early in the Day
Let’s talk delays and cancellations — the ultimate buzzkill. Expedia’s data shows that morning flights are significantly more reliable:
- Flights departing after 9 PM have a 57% higher chance of being cancelled.
- Flights between 9 AM and 3 PM see the lowest cancellation rates.
- August and September have the fewest cancellations (only 1.2% on average), and August also boasts the shortest average delays.
Even better? It only shows deals that are at least 20% below average pricing, so you know you’re getting real savings — not just marketing hype.
If you’re planning to travel in 2025, you’ve got more control (and more tools) than ever to fly smart. Whether you’re trying to avoid crowds, cut down on costs, or score a comfy seat up front, Expedia Air Hacks Report is packed with real insights — not just guesses.
Happy booking — and may your flights be cheap, on time, and smooth as butter.
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