New research from travel agency Expedia has unveiled crucial insights for holidaymakers looking to slash hundreds of pounds off their flight expenses. The comprehensive Air Hacks Report provides a detailed guide on the most cost-effective strategies for booking and travelling throughout the year.
Optimal Travel Days and Months
According to the findings, Friday has been officially designated as the most budget-friendly day to depart, despite being the busiest travel day of the week. Travellers can achieve an average saving of 18% by choosing Friday over Saturday. In contrast, Tuesday emerges as the quietest day for flying but paradoxically the most expensive to book.
The report identifies June as the most affordable month to fly, with flights averaging 68% cheaper than in December. This translates to a potential saving of approximately £250 per ticket, making it a prime time for budget-conscious travellers.
Best Booking Practices
For securing the best deals, Sunday is highlighted as the optimal day to book flights. When it comes to timing, domestic economy flights are cheapest when booked between 31 and 45 days before departure, offering savings of around £38 compared to booking six months in advance.
International travellers can save an average of £93 by booking between 15 and 30 days ahead, rather than six months prior. Booking 31 to 45 days in advance still yields a substantial saving of £85.
Airport Cost Variations
The analysis also sheds light on cost disparities among UK airports. The cheapest airports to fly from, on average, are Belfast (£170), Liverpool (£171), and Bournemouth (£171). Conversely, the most expensive include London Heathrow (£533), Humberside (£420), and Manchester (£404).
Emerging Travel Trends
The report uncovered several evolving travel behaviours. Notably, 20% of travellers have booked an "extreme day trip," involving a roundtrip flight within 24 hours to explore a new destination. Over half (51%) of international flyers now prefer morning departures, with only 15% opting for evening flights.
Additionally, a third of travellers fly with only a carry-on bag, and 29% admit to wearing extra layers to avoid baggage fees, reflecting a growing trend towards cost-saving measures.
Melanie Fish, a spokesperson for Expedia, commented: "We are very excited to release these new findings and share our top air hacks for 2026 to ensure holidaymakers get the best value for money, as well as an enjoyable travelling experience."
Expedia has introduced a 'Flight Deals' feature to help users find flights 20% below the norm, aiming to simplify the often overwhelming and expensive trip planning process.
