Dreaming of global adventures often comes with a hefty price tag, but savvy travellers can significantly reduce costs with strategic planning. Numerous factors, from booking timing to travel months and destination choices, dramatically influence overall expenses. Now, Expedia's comprehensive 2026 Air Hacks Report has crunched the numbers, analysing extensive traveller behaviour, habits, and booking data to pinpoint the optimal periods for securing the best deals.
The Best Time to Book Your Flights
According to the research, May emerges as the cheapest month to book flights, proving to be a substantial 21 per cent more affordable than the most expensive period, which is December. For domestic travel within the UK, January is the ideal time to start making reservations, whereas August commands prices that are 26 per cent higher on average.
When to Actually Travel for Maximum Savings
When it comes to taking off, June stands out as the most affordable month to jet away on holiday. Travelling in June can result in savings of up to 68 per cent compared to December, which typically costs around £250 more per ticket. This highlights that international travel doesn't necessarily have to break the bank if timed correctly.
Budget-Friendly Destinations Under £100
Expedia has identified several 'saver routes' where return flights cost less than £100, making spontaneous getaways more accessible. Notable examples include:
- Luton to Poznan, Poland's fifth-largest city, at just £79.
- Stansted to Shannon, Ireland, approximately £88.
- Liverpool to Bergamo, Italy, coming in at £92.
- Glasgow International to Dublin, Ireland, priced at £96.
- East Midlands to Dublin, only £1 more at £97.
Significant Year-on-Year Price Drops
Several routes are experiencing dramatic price reductions, with some savings exceeding 40 per cent compared to previous years. Key examples include:
- Newcastle to Gdansk, Poland, has plummeted by 67 per cent.
- Manchester to Cork, Ireland, saw a 65 per cent decrease.
- Birmingham to Bordeaux, France, dropped by 58 per cent.
Tips for a Peaceful and Economical Journey
For those seeking quieter travel experiences, booking data indicates that March 4, 5, and 9 are the least busy dates to fly. Surprisingly, December 31 also ranks among the quietest days, potentially offering a serene start to the New Year.
Optimal Days for Booking and Flying
To maximise savings, consider that Friday is typically the cheapest day to fly, being 18 per cent less expensive than Saturday, which is the most costly. However, Saturday presents an opportunity for business class travellers, as it tends to be the most affordable day to book premium seats. Conversely, Wednesday is a day to avoid for bookings, as costs can be around 10 per cent higher on average.
By leveraging these insights from Expedia's 2026 report, holidaymakers can plan more efficiently, ensuring memorable trips without overspending. Whether booking in May, travelling in June, or targeting saver routes, strategic choices lead to substantial financial benefits.
