When is the best day to travel? Debunking myths for big savings

As the year unfolds and the itch to explore new horizons grows stronger, many Australians are turning their thoughts to travel. Whether it’s a domestic jaunt or an international adventure, savvy planning can lead to significant savings. Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks Report has just dropped, and it’s packed with insights that could see you jet-setting more affordably than ever before. 

The report, which is a treasure trove of data for cost-conscious travellers, suggests that the day of the week you choose to book your flights could make a substantial difference to your wallet. According to Expedia, booking airfares on Sundays could lead to a saving of up to 20% for domestic flights. This is a stark contrast to the common belief that weekend bookings are pricier due to increased demand.

Ready to fly? Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks Report uncovers when to book and travel for the biggest savings—don’t miss out. Image Source: Cottonbro Studio / Pexels

For those looking to traverse the Australian landscape, the report advises booking domestic flights at least six months in advance, which could result in savings of up to 36%. However, when it comes to international travel, booking too early might not be the best strategy. The sweet spot for securing the best deals is between two and three months before departure, rather than six months or more, which could actually end up costing you more.

When it’s time to take to the skies, choosing your departure day wisely can also lead to more money in your pocket. Contrary to the myth that weekend flights are more expensive, departing on a Saturday for domestic trips can save you up to 27% compared to a Monday departure.

The Expedia report also dispels another myth: that summer travel is always more expensive. In fact, January emerged as the cheapest month for economy flights, while October was the best bet for those looking to upgrade to premium seats.

Flight cancellations can throw a wrench in the best-laid travel plans, but the report offers some reassurance. February and March see the lowest cancellation rates, averaging just 2.5%, while January has the highest at 9.4%. This information can be invaluable for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of rebooking and potential delays.

Sarah King, an Expedia travel expert, emphasises that the report’s insights are drawn from global airline data, equipping Australian travellers with the knowledge they need to save both money and time. She also highlights the exciting developments in the travel industry, such as new flight routes from Australia, cutting-edge aircraft, and improved airport facilities.

In a surprising twist, the report found that economy tickets have decreased by 10% compared to 2023, with premium tickets down by 3%. This bucks the trend of expecting annual increases in airfares and is welcome news for budget-conscious travellers.

The most popular domestic destinations for Aussies are Sydney, Adelaide, and Canberra, while Bali, Bangkok, and Los Angeles top the list for international travel.

Here’s a quick rundown of the travel insights from the Expedia report:

Best day to book: Opt for Sunday instead of Friday to potentially save up to 20% on domestic flights and 17% on international flights.

Best day to travel domestically: Choose a Saturday departure over Monday to save up to 27%.

Best month to travel: February offers the calmest travel experience, while September tends to be the busiest.

Booking window sweet spot: Book domestic flights at least six months in advance and international flights about three months before departure.

Most cancellations: Flights scheduled in the afternoon (3-9pm) are more prone to cancellations, with a 43% higher rate than evening flights (9pm-3am).

Most popular destinations: The top destinations include Bali (Indonesia), Bangkok (Thailand), and Los Angeles (USA).

Armed with these tips from Expedia’s report, you’re now better equipped to plan your travels wisely and frugally. Remember, the key to saving on travel is all in the timing. So, before you start dreaming of your next getaway, consider these insights to make the most of your travel budget.

As you plan your next adventure, timing can make all the difference. Have you discovered specific days or times that tend to offer the best travel deals? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below—let’s work together to make the most of our golden years of exploration.

Also read: Jetstar’s free return flights: Your next adventure awaits

Abegail Abrugar
Abegail Abrugar
Abby is a dedicated writer with a passion for coaching, personal development, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. With a strong background in leadership, she provides practical insights designed to inspire growth and positive change in others.

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