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When is the best time of year to fly?

When is the "off-season" when fares are lower?

By Anne Marie

"Off-season" is different all over Earth. It often depends on factors such as weather (ex. rainy season) and holidays (ex. Thanksgiving).

For travel within U.S. and Canada, the off-seasons are typically September to mid-November as well as mid-January to mid-March. School is in session and more people plan travel for holiday periods or school breaks.

For travel between the U.S. and Europe, there is high, shoulder and low seasons. Low seasons are typically November to mid-December and January to February.

Travel between the U.S. and the Pacific has multiple seasons too. Low seasons are typically August to November, January, and mid-February to mid-March.

There can be country-specific exceptions. Two examples: Between the U.S. and Japan, the low seasons are November to mid-December and January to March. Between the U.S. and Australia, the low seasons are May to late Jun and late July to August.

This doesn't mean you should wait to make your reservations until the low season. In fact, you should plan your trip months in advance to take advantage of fare sales that the airlines offer for travel during these periods.

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