Google says this is the best time to book flights, but its other findings may surprise you more

"The last time I booked a vacation flight, I spent over an hour searching for the cheapest ticket to Hawaii, with two criteria in mind: it had to be a direct flight and have only one layover. At least one layover was to be expected (at LAX) because Kentucky is a long way from the Aloha State. I could've saved some time, though -- and money -- had I known what Google's latest Flights report revealed."

"Based on Google Flights' aggregate data from 2021 to 2025, travelers looking for the most affordable airfare should consider flying early in the week. Tuesday has consistently been identified as the cheapest day to fly, followed by Monday and Wednesday. Opting for flights on midweek days can save you anywhere from 13% to 20% lower airfares than weekend travel. Flying on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday tends to be more expensive, with Sunday pegged as the priciest day of the week to fly."

"In short, yes. Flights with layovers typically cost about 25% less than direct flights, according to Google Flight data. Despite the added travel time and inconvenience, you could potentially save over $90 (on average) by tolerating the layover hassle. While savings vary, layover flights consistently offer lower fares, allowing you to reach your destination more affordably -- as long as you're flexible with your itinerary."

The ideal booking window for domestic flights is approximately one to two months prior to takeoff. Overseas travel requires booking much earlier to secure the most favorable rates. Flying early in the week, particularly on Tuesday, consistently yields the lowest fares, with Monday and Wednesday also offering savings. Midweek departures can reduce airfare by roughly 13% to 20% compared with weekend travel, and Sunday is typically the priciest day to fly. Flights with layovers generally cost about 25% less than direct flights, often saving around $90 on average, though they add travel time and inconvenience. Flexibility with itinerary enables greater cost savings.

Read at ZDNET