UK airline passengers have been told that booking on Mondays and Tuesdays may help secure cheaper flight deals, according to experts. As summer approaches, many Britons are planning holidays abroad and seeking the best value for money. While factors such as destination, airline, and booking platform influence prices, research shows that the timing of the booking can also make a significant difference.
Expert Advice on Cheapest Booking Days
The team at Money Saving Expert (MSE), founded by Martin Lewis, has shared tips on snapping up the cheapest flights, including the optimum time to purchase. MSE suggests that Mondays and Tuesdays can be the best days to book. The site states: "Buying flight tickets early in the week can pay off." Skyscanner data indicates that airlines sometimes release deals late on Mondays when fewer people are searching for flights, and these deals can last into Tuesday morning.
This is supported by guidance on the Skyscanner website, which says: "Mondays, which may lead to lower fares early in the week. Prices tend to rise again as the week progresses and demand increases." However, there is no guarantee that you will get the best deal on these days. MSE adds: "There's no guaranteed 'best' day or week to buy. Prices depend on demand, competitor pricing, the economy and historical customer booking patterns. One thing that won't impact the prices is your search history – this is an urban myth, with your interest in a particular flight having no effect on its price."
Understanding Flight Pricing Dynamics
Skyscanner notes that flight pricing changes constantly based on demand, season, and route. There is no fixed cheapest day to book, but with the right tools, passengers can stay informed. Airlines use dynamic pricing software that reacts to factors like demand, booking patterns, and cancellations, which is why fares may fall suddenly or rise without warning.
Common Triggers for Price Drops
- Lower demand periods: If a flight is not selling well, fares may be reduced to fill seats.
- Cancellations: When travellers cancel, some seats may be re-released at a lower price.
- Sales windows: Airlines may offer short-term promotions, especially for quieter travel periods.
Additional Tips for Getting the Best Deal
MSE also recommends the following steps to secure the best flight deals:
- Be flexible: Prices swing massively depending on when and where you fly. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually cheapest; summer holidays and Christmas are most expensive. If you are open on location, use comparison sites' 'anywhere' search to see which destinations are lowest.
- Set up price alerts: Flash sales and rare 'error fares' (when an airline lists the wrong price) can vanish within hours. Sign up to airline newsletters and flight deal alerts via email or app so you are notified the moment prices drop, then be ready to book fast.
- Always compare prices before booking: Do not assume the airline's own site is cheapest. Use at least two comparison sites like Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Google Flights, as they cover different airlines and travel agents.
- Split your journey to save: Adding a short stopover or booking legs separately can cut hundreds of pounds off long-haul flights. Use comparison sites to check both direct and indirect options.
- Check the real cost: A rock-bottom fare may not stay cheap once baggage, seat fees, and extras are added. Compare the full price, not just the headline ticket.
For more information, visit the MSE website.
