When to book international flights from India
How far ahead to book for the Gulf, Southeast Asia, Europe and the US, and which dates to avoid.
There's no magic day of the week to book, whatever the internet says. What matters is how far ahead you book relative to demand on your route and dates. Here's how we plan it.
Short-haul Asia and the Gulf
For Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and the Gulf, four to eight weeks ahead is usually enough outside the peaks. For Onam, Christmas, Eid and the summer holidays, book eight to ten weeks ahead.
Europe and the UK
Two to four months ahead, and book the flight only once the visa route is clear. In spring and summer, apply for your Schengen or UK visa first, with a flight reservation, then issue the ticket.
The US, Canada and Australia
Three to six months ahead for the best fares, and later only if your visa is still pending.
Japan and Vietnam
Cherry blossom season in late March and early April books out by December. Vietnam is good value most of the year; book six to eight weeks ahead for December.
Watch for sales
Gulf carriers and Asian airlines run sales several times a year. If your dates are flexible, we can watch a fare and issue when it drops.
Our rule of thumb
Book when you see a fare that fits your budget and rules. Waiting for a lower one on a busy date rarely works. Read what moves the price.
Related
Published by Airtravel Enterprises · More articles and guides
