Based on Google Flights' latest 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.
If you have elite status, you may have even more options. United Airlines, for instance, offers a same-day confirmation service on select flights for all passengers with elite status-that means they can make a guaranteed switch to an earlier flight in the same cabin class at no charge, without paying a difference in fare. When in doubt, call the carrier's customer service line and ask an agent to check how full the flight is.