2025 Air Hacks: How to fly smarter & save $$ with Expedia

If you’ve ever rushed to book a flight months in advance, hoping to secure the lowest fare, you might have been doing it all wrong. Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks Report is challenging travel myths and proving that when you book and fly matters just as much as where you go. By analyzing billions of flight data points, this report reveals airfare savings strategies that could help travelers cut costs, avoid stress, and even land an upgrade.

Think summer travel Is always expensive? Think again

It’s no secret that summer is peak travel season, but surprisingly, July is the cheapest month to fly. According to Expedia’s data, economy tickets in July cost up to 11% less than in March, which is actually the most expensive month for air travel. Even premium travellers can save big—business and first-class fares in July are up to 13% cheaper than in September. If you’re planning a summer getaway, now you know when to go.

The best days to book and fly for maximum savings

Booking flights on the right day of the week can have a bigger impact than you think. Sundays are the best day to book, offering savings of up to 10% compared to booking on a Friday. Timing your purchase correctly could mean extra cash for experiences at your destination.

But it’s not just about when you book—when you fly also matters. If you’re flying domestic, departing on a Friday could save you up to 23% compared to flying on a Monday. For international trips, Thursdays are the cheapest departure days, helping travellers save up to 8% over pricier weekend departures.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

Another common myth is that booking as far in advance as possible guarantees the best deal. Expedia’s report suggests otherwise. If you’re flying within Canada, the sweet spot is 63 to 72 days before departure, which can save you up to 16%. For international travel, the ideal booking window is closer to departure—43 to 54 days ahead—offering savings of up to 5%. Booking too far in advance or waiting until the last minute could actually cost you more.

Want a stress-free airport experience? Travel on these days

If crowded terminals, long security lines, and packed planes stress you out, Tuesdays are the best day to fly. It’s the least busy travel day, meaning fewer people at check-in, quicker security screening, and more open seats on the plane. On the flip side, Fridays are the busiest travel days, so expect longer lines and full flights if you can’t avoid flying then.

Looking for an upgrade? Here’s how to get one

Flying business class isn’t just for the rich and famous—especially in 2025. Expedia’s report shows that the price gap between premium and economy fares is 3% smaller than it was in 2019, making upgrades more affordable than ever. And if you really want a premium experience without breaking the bank, January is the cheapest month for business class tickets.

For those hoping to score an upgrade without paying for it, former flight attendant and TikTok star Jeenie Weenie shares her top tips:

Sit near the front for a better meal selection—flight attendants serve from the front to the back, and special meal requests (like vegetarian or gluten-free) usually get delivered first.
Stay awake for meal service—if you’re sleeping, flight attendants may skip you.
Book an exit row or the first row in economy for extra legroom—sometimes, it feels just like business class.
Be polite to the flight crew—kindness goes a long way, and if there’s an open premium seat, you might just get lucky.
Check your email before departure—some airlines offer last-minute paid upgrades for a fraction of the usual price.

Where are Canadians traveling in 2025?

Expedia’s report also highlights trending destinations. Popular international spots include Las Vegas, London, and New Delhi, while Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal remain top choices for domestic travellers. Some unexpected destinations are also seeing a surge in interest—Edmonton and Toronto are up 255% in bookings, while Florence, Italy, and Dallas, USA, have seen more than a 100% increase in visitors.

Use technology to save even more

Even with all these insights, finding the best airfare savings can still feel overwhelming. That’s where technology comes in. Expedia’s Flight Price Tracking feature helps travellers monitor price drops and book at the perfect time. You can also bundle flights with hotels, car rentals, or activities to save even more.

Fly smarter in 2025

If you want to fly smarter in 2025, the key is knowing when to book and when to travel. July is the cheapest month to fly, Sundays are the best days to book, and choosing the right departure day can save you hundreds. By using Expedia’s Flight Price Tracking and following insider tips, you’ll be able to score the best deals—and maybe even an upgrade—for your next trip.

Feature image by Aleksandar Pasaric

Join us on: