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Best times to book a holiday revealed
New research released by KAYAK reveals the best times to book a holiday. The firm believes travellers could save considerable amounts of money by booking at the right time.
Most regions: book at least three months in advance
For the majority of long-distance trips, planning is required well in advance. Travellers from the UK will save the most money if they make their online booking seven months in advance for Asia, while the most attractive prices for can be found around five months in advance for South America and the Middle East, four months in advance for the Caribbean and three months in advance for Central America and the South Pacific.
Africa, Europe and North America: leave your booking until later
KAYAK’s analysis shows it’s best to wait until just two months before taking off for Africa. Even less planning is required for travel within Europe, with optimal prices found around one month in advance. The standout destination for spontaneous travel is North America, with best prices just two weeks prior to departure.
When to book the best fares
Region | Time before travel |
North America | 2 weeks |
Central America | 3 months |
Africa | 2 months |
Asia | 7 months |
Caribbean | 4 months |
Europe | 1 month |
South America | 5 months |
Middle East | 5 months |
South Pacific | 3 months |
As well as analysing the best possible time to book in advance, KAYAK also determined the best days of the week for cheap travel.
Region | Depart | Return |
North America | Wednesday | Tuesday |
Central America | Thursday | Tuesday |
Africa | Monday | Thursday |
Asia | Tuesday | Tuesday |
Caribbean | Thursday | Thursday |
Europe | Thursday | Sunday |
South America | Thursday | Monday |
Middle East | Wednesday | Monday |
South Pacific | Tuesday | Wednesday |
Weekend trips within Europe cheaper on average
While travelling at weekends is generally more expensive, a fortunate exception exists for long weekends within Europe. Here, the best combination is departing on Thursday and returning on Sunday, just in time for the beginning of a new week.