New research reveals 53 days aheads is the best time to book a cheap flight

The cheapest time to book a flight is 53 days before departure, according to new travel research.

An analysis of 12.6 billion airfares worldwide, conducted by UK travel comparison site Momondo, found that consumers could save an average of 26 per cent by booking just under two months in advance.

Travellers should also avoid flying on Saturday, the most expensive day of the week, which cost up to 11.5 per cent more than flying on Tuesday, the cheapest day.

Time of day was another important factor to consider when booking a flight. According to the statistics, evening departures between the hours of 6pm and 12am tended to offer the cheapest fares.

Daytime flights between 10am and 3pm were more expensive by an average six per cent.

Unsurprisingly, tickets were most expensive if travellers chose to book their trip on the day of departure.

Lasse Skole Hansen of Momondo said: "We would always advise travellers to stick to these golden travel rules, to secure the cheapest fares. And in general, it pays to book flights two months in advance.

"We found these trends consistent across the board, so bargain hunters should consider flying in the evening and on Tuesdays if possible, to save the most money on their trip."

Stuff.co.nz

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