When Should I Book My Summer Flights?

Dear Jessica

Dear M.L.,

Every spring readers ask me this question, and every year my answer is essentially the same: as soon as possible.

Planes generally fly very full in the summer. Book airfare at least

60 days

before you travel, and always assume you won't find a last-minute bargain in the summer.

On the other hand, if you're able to be

flexible with dates

and don't have a set destination in mind, you may still be able to snag a last-minute bargain.



RELATED:

Secrets to Booking the Cheapest Summer Europe Flight Ever



For travel to popular summertime destinations,

particularly Europe

, you should book well in advance or risk overpaying.