DUBAI: If you’re looking to make your next trip from the UAE more affordable, you may want to rethink some old travel habits.
A new report from Expedia and the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) has debunked popular air travel myths, revealing that small changes in how and when you book and fly can save you hundreds on your next trip.
Sunday: The cheapest day to book
Think Mondays or Fridays are the best days to find a great deal on flights? Think again.
According to the 2025 Air Hacks report, Sunday is the cheapest day to book flights. For the third consecutive year, data has shown that booking on Sundays can save international travellers up to 17% compared to booking on a Friday or Monday.
“Booking too far out can actually cost you money, and Sundays have proven to be the best day for securing affordable flights,” said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations.
August: Not your typical peak month
While summer is traditionally seen as an expensive time to travel, August has emerged as the least expensive month for air travel. Surprisingly, booking international flights in August can save you up to 7% compared to flying in March, traditionally one of the priciest months.
"People often assume summer is expensive, but August, despite being in the middle of summer, offers the lowest fares for international travel," added Fish.
Fly on Thursdays or Saturdays for lower fares
It’s not just about when you book – it’s also about when you fly. According to the report, flying on a Thursday or Saturday is usually the best choice for cheaper fares. International travellers, in particular, can save 15% by opting to fly on Thursday instead of the typical Sunday.
"For those seeking lower airfares, Thursdays stand out as the ideal day to travel internationally, with savings of 15% compared to a Sunday departure," noted Chuck Thackston, managing director of data science and research at ARC.
Book 18-29 days in advance for best deals
Many travelers believe that booking far in advance always guarantees the best deal. However, the report's findings suggest a different approach. Booking international flights 18 to 29 days ahead of time can save up to 17% compared to booking three months in advance.
“The common myth that booking early always saves money doesn’t hold up. In fact, booking too early can sometimes backfire,” explained Thackston.
Avoid peak days to reduce cancellations
Tuesday is the least busy travel day of the week, making it ideal for travelers looking to avoid crowded airports and long delays. Mid-week departures, particularly on Tuesdays, can help travelers save money while avoiding the chaos of peak travel periods.
Early morning flights, smoother journeys
For those who want the smoothest travel experience, early morning flights are your best bet. They are generally less prone to cancellations, whereas flights later in the day, particularly those after 9 pm, have a 57% higher chance of being cancelled.
Airfares are down, but smart booking is key
Though average airfares are down for both domestic and international flights in 2024 – with international tickets seeing a 4% decrease – booking smarter can lead to even bigger savings. With domestic airfares at Dh1,696.9 and international ones at Dh3,118.3, knowing the best time to book and travel makes all the difference.
For those considering upgrading to premium, the gap between economy and premium fares is now smaller, with a 10% reduction compared to 2019. This makes upgrading more accessible for those willing to treat themselves to a more luxurious flying experience.