The Best Times to Buy Flights to Europe for Incredible Savings

Knowing when to buy your flight tickets can save you a lot of money when planning a European trip. The best time to book flights to Europe is usually one to seven months before your travel date. This window helps you get the best deals without the stress of last-minute booking.

Cheap flights are often found during less popular travel months like October and November. During these times, airfares drop significantly compared to the busy summer months. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can find great deals that make your trip more affordable.

For the best results, let flight deals guide your planning. Use tools and alerts from services like Going™ to find the best prices. Start by checking for cheap flights, then plan the rest of your activities accordingly.

Key Takeaways

• Book flights one to seven months ahead.
• October and November offer the cheapest rates.
• Let flight deals guide your travel planning.

Understanding Airfare Seasonality

To get the best deals on flights to Europe, it’s important to understand how seasons affect airfare prices. Different times of the year offer varying cost levels and demand, impacting when you should buy your tickets.

High and Low Seasons

High Season: Summer months, particularly June through August, are peak travel times. Due to increased demand, flights are often expensive.

And who wouldn’t want to bask in the Mediterranean sun or explore historic cities in ideal weather? But everyone else has the same idea, driving prices up.

Low Season: Winter, especially January and February, sees the lowest prices. Sure, it can be cold, but Europe’s winter charm—think cozy cafes and festive markets—shouldn’t be underestimated. Plus, you save money, which means more to spend on experiences.

Peak Season Travel

Traveling during peak season means higher airfares and more tourists. You might find it harder to score discounted fares, so booking well in advance is crucial. Airlines know that destinations like Paris, Rome, and London are hot spots in summer, and they price tickets accordingly.

But peak season also brings the best weather, making it great for outdoor activities and sightseeing. If your heart is set on a summer trip, consider flying mid-week or to less popular airports to save some cash.

Off-Peak Advantages

Flying during off-peak or “shoulder” seasons—spring (March to mid-June) and fall (September to November)—can be a smart move. These periods offer moderate weather and fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed experience.

You get the best of both worlds: lowered airfares and decent weather. This is an excellent time to explore Europe without the hustle and bustle. Cities like Vienna in the fall or the Dutch tulip fields in spring are magical and more affordable.

The Best Times to Book Flights

Booking flights to Europe can be tricky, with prices varying based on the time of day, the day of the week, and the distance to your travel date. Knowing the best times can help you get the best deal.

Booking Window Recommendations

The ideal booking window can make a huge difference when planning a European trip. Data suggests booking between 50 and 170 days before your departure date gives you the best rates.

This period generally avoids the peak seasons, when prices skyrocket. If you’re looking at a specific season, consider buying your tickets in advance, like booking for summer around the start of the year.

Airlines tend to release tickets around 11 months in advance, so if you have a specific time in mind, keep an eye out early. Think of it as a sweet spot.

It’s too early, and the airlines haven’t settled on their major price adjustments. It’s too late, and your options narrow significantly.

Weekday Booking Advantages

Ever heard the saying that Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the best days to book flights? It turns out there’s some truth to it. Midweek is often cheaper because fewer people are logging on to buy tickets. According to travel experts, Tuesday afternoon is a golden window because airlines often launch sales on Monday night, and by Tuesday, competitors have adjusted their prices to match.

In addition to booking flights, flying on these days can also save you money. Airlines know that weekdays are less popular travel days, especially midweek, so they lower prices. If your schedule is flexible, this is a great way to cut costs.

Last-Minute Deals

While planning usually gets the best fares, sometimes, last-minute deals pop up. Airlines occasionally drop prices to fill empty seats as the departure date nears.

If you’re spontaneous or your plans allow for some flexibility, this can be a surprising way to save money. Sign up for alerts from airline sites or travel deals websites to catch these offers.

But be careful! Last-minute buying isn’t for everyone, especially during busy travel times like holidays. Flights can also get booked, and prices can be higher than expected. Keep this in mind if you prefer certainty over savings.

See Related: Cheapest First Class Flights: Uncover Luxurious Deals You Can Afford

Popular Times to Fly to Europe

Traveling to Europe can be delightful at different times of the year, with each period offering unique experiences and opportunities for adventure. The most popular times to book flights are during summer holidays, Christmas and New Year, and Easter and Spring Break.

Summer Holidays

During the summer months, Europe is a bustling hotspot for international tourists. Schools are out, and families enjoy the sunny weather to explore scenic destinations like the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast, or the Greek islands.

From June to August, expect higher airfare and crowded attractions. But the vibrant festivals, beach holidays, and long daylight hours make it all worth it.

If you love outdoor activities, this is a great time. Public squares and local markets are buzzing, giving you a taste of authentic European culture.

Christmas and New Year

Winter transforms Europe into a magical wonderland, especially during the Christmas season. From mid-December to early January, Charming Christmas markets, festive lights, and seasonal delicacies are available in cities like Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg.

Flights and accommodations might be pricier, and some attractions could be closed due to the holidays. Still, the atmosphere is enchanting.

Spend Christmas Eve in a cozy mountain cabin or celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks over the Thames in London. The unique traditions and cozy ambiance make this a special time to visit.

Easter and Spring Break

Easter and Spring Break bring a different charm to Europe. Families often take advantage of school breaks from late March to early April and head to Europe for a holiday.

During this time, the weather starts warming up, flowers bloom, and outdoor cafes open. Easter brings unique celebrations; Florence is known for the “Scoppio del Carro” – a grand fireworks display.

Flight prices can be moderate, and the crowds are smaller than in summer, making it a great balance between cost and experience. Traveling during these seasons ensures you experience Europe’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant life, with each period offering its own set of perks and delights.

See Related: Genius Travel Hacks for Long Flights: Tips and Tricks for a Comfortable Journey

Flight Deals and Alerts

Tracking flight deals and setting up alerts can save you money. Different tools and websites offer various ways to find and track the best flight prices. Let’s dig into the details.

Setting Up Price Alerts

Price alerts are super useful for finding the best deals. You can set these up using tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner.

When you create a price alert, you’ll get notifications when the ticket prices for your chosen destinations go up or down. This way, you’re always in the loop without constantly checking.

For example, Google Flights offers an easy way to set alerts. Select your flight, hit the “track prices” toggle, and you’ll receive updates. Similarly, Skyscanner’s alert system lets you see real-time changes.

Using these tools, you never miss out on a good deal because they tell you when to book. It’s like having a personal assistant for your travel planning.

Utilizing Flight Deals Websites

Websites like Booking.com, Hopper, and Thrifty Traveler Premium specialize in finding and sharing flight deals. They compare prices across multiple airlines to give you the best options.

Hopper, for instance, uses data to predict the best time to buy your ticket. They even have a feature that tells you whether to book now or wait.

Thrifty Traveler Premium is a subscription service that sends you deals straight to your inbox. These deals often include mistake fares and discounted business-class tickets.

Other sites like Booking.com help you plan your trip, including flights, hotels, and car rentals. They often offer bundled deals that can save you even more.

Using these websites takes the guesswork out of finding good deals. You get the best prices delivered to you, saving time and money.

See Related: Why Are Flights So Expensive? Uncovering Hidden Costs and Travel Tips

Leveraging Points and Travel Credit Cards

Using points and travel credit cards can save you a lot on flights. It’s all about signing up for the right programs and making the most of your points.

Travel Rewards Programs

You can get lots of benefits from travel rewards programs. Airline loyalty programs let you earn points for every mile you fly. These points can then be redeemed for free flights or upgrades.

Programs like Air Canada Aeroplan and ANA Mileage Club are popular for European trips. They offer good rates for miles needed and low fees. Sometimes, you can transfer points from credit card programs like American Express Membership Rewards.

Another great way to earn travel points is through credit card sign-up bonuses. Many cards offer thousands of miles if you spend a certain amount in the first few months.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card often has an offer to earn 60,000 points if you spend $4,000 in the first three months. It’s a quick way to rack up points without too much effort.

Maximizing Airline Points

To get the most out of your points, timing and planning are key. Booking flights to Europe six to seven months in advance usually ensures the best availability for reward seats. Airlines often release reward seats in different sets, so checking back frequently can help you snag a good deal.

Also, pay attention to peak and off-peak times. Flying during less busy seasons like October and November can mean lower point requirements. Some airlines also have reduced mileage awards during off-peak times, allowing you to save points.

Also, consider using points for business class tickets if you have enough saved. The experience can be worth the splurge, and booking early can give you the best chance to grab these premium seats.

Choosing the Right Airline Credit Cards

Picking the right airline credit card can make or break your travel budget. Look for cards with big bonuses and good earning rates on travel purchases.

For instance, the United Explorer Card gives you 2 miles per dollar on United purchases. Plus, you get perks like priority boarding and free checked bags, which can save you a ton on fees.

You might consider cards like Capital One Venture Rewards and Chase Sapphire Reserve. These cards offer flexible points that can be transferred to multiple airlines, giving you more options.

Also, check out if the card offers travel insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and access to airport lounges. These benefits can enhance your travel experience and provide peace of mind.

So, if you’re considering traveling to Europe, leveraging points and travel credit cards is smart. These tips can help you stretch your travel budget and even fly in more luxury than you’d planned. Happy travels!