Finding affordable flights is a top priority for many travelers, and understanding the best days to book and fly with United Airlines can help you save money. While ticket prices vary based on demand, season, and route, certain trends can guide you in identifying the cheapest days to fly United.
1. Midweek Travel Is Typically Cheaper
United Airlines, like many other carriers, often has lower fares on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. These days tend to see less demand compared to weekends or Mondays when business travel peaks. By flying midweek, you can often find more budget-friendly tickets.
For example:
- Flights departing on a Wednesday may be significantly cheaper than the same flight scheduled for Friday or Sunday.
- Returning on a Tuesday or Wednesday instead of the weekend can further reduce costs.
2. Early Morning and Late-Night Flights
Choosing off-peak times, such as early morning or red-eye flights, can also lead to cost savings. Flights departing during these less popular hours are often less expensive since they are less convenient for most travelers.
3. Use United Airlines’ Flexible Dates Tool
United Airlines offers a flexible dates feature when booking flights on their website. This tool allows you to view a range of fares for several days around your preferred travel dates, making it easy to identify the cheapest options.
Steps to use the flexible dates tool:
- Go to United.com and enter your departure and arrival cities.
- Select “Flexible Dates” before searching for flights.
- Compare prices across different days to pinpoint the best deals.
4. Consider Booking During Off-Peak Seasons
Flying during off-peak travel periods, such as late January through early March or September through mid-November, can help you secure lower fares. Avoid peak travel times like holidays, school breaks, and summer vacation to save money on United Airlines flights.
For example:
- Flights in early February (excluding Valentine’s Day) are often cheaper than those during spring break in March.
- Post-holiday travel in early January may offer reduced fares as demand decreases after New Year’s celebrations.
5. Book in Advance but Stay Alert for Deals
Booking your flight at least 1-3 months in advance is generally recommended for domestic travel, while international flights should be booked 3-6 months ahead. However, keep an eye out for flash sales, fare drops, and special promotions offered by United Airlines.
6. Monitor Tuesday Deals
Airlines, including United, often release fare sales on Tuesdays. These deals may last through midweek, so checking United’s website or using fare comparison tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner on Tuesdays can help you score the best prices.
7. Use MileagePlus Rewards or Credit Card Benefits
If you’re a MileagePlus member or hold a United-branded credit card, you can redeem points for flights or enjoy discounts and exclusive offers, further reducing your travel expenses.
Final Tips for Finding Cheap United Flights
- Be flexible with your travel dates and times.
- Use fare comparison websites to check for United’s best deals.
- Consider booking a basic economy ticket for additional savings, but be aware of its restrictions.
By flying midweek, avoiding peak seasons, and leveraging United’s tools and promotions, you can maximize your chances of finding affordable fares for your next trip.
