Planning your next getaway? Beware of the most expensive day to fly—it could cost you hundreds more than necessary! But don’t worry, we’ve got the inside scoop on how to save big on your 2026 travels. A groundbreaking report from Expedia’s annual Air Hacks (https://www.expedia.com.au/see/airhacks?brandcid=EXPEDIA-AU.COMMS.PR.AIRHACKS26.GENERIC) has just unveiled the best—and worst—times to book and fly, and the findings are eye-opening. Here’s the kicker: Sunday is the priciest day to take to the skies, with fares soaring up to 12% higher than the cheapest day, which is—surprisingly—Friday. But here’s where it gets controversial: while most travelers assume weekends are always expensive, Fridays are actually a hidden gem for budget-conscious flyers. Why? Expedia travel expert Sarah King explains, ‘Business travel demand tends to drop toward the end of the week, easing price pressure and opening up better deals for leisure travelers.’ This shift means airlines often release competitive fares on Fridays, letting you kick off your weekend getaway without breaking the bank. And this is the part most people miss: flying midday or later can also save you money and hassle, as over 56% of domestic and 45% of international flights take off in the morning, making airports less crowded later in the day. Now, let’s talk timing: February is the unsung hero of travel months, with airfares plummeting by up to 74% compared to December. Routes across Asia and the South Pacific see some of the biggest drops, making it perfect for flexible travelers seeking value. But why February? ‘With kids back in school and the holiday rush over, demand softens, and airlines lower prices,’ King notes. When it comes to booking, July is the sweet spot, offering up to 20% savings compared to November. ‘It’s a shoulder booking period, even though it’s a busy travel month,’ King explains. ‘Airlines use this time to boost future demand, creating great deals for savvy planners.’ Speaking of destinations, Vietnam’s Nha Trang is booming, with a 140% surge in interest, while Palau and Portland, USA, are also trending. The Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms Vietnam’s rise, with Japan, China, and Vietnam topping the list of fastest-growing outbound destinations. Outbound travel hit 12.5 million visits in 2025, an 8% jump from 2024. So, here’s the big question: Are you team Friday flyer or Sunday spender? And do you think February will become the new December for travel deals? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
