best time to buy air tickets

[jesta1865]

dear all, the OH and I are hoping to get to OZ (Queensland, yes but we have family there) in August, as the prices seem very high for their 'winter' am i right in thinking that they are standard fares and I will only start to see discounts about 3 months in advance?

i used to travel a lot years ago but a big change in circumstances means I am not up to date with how the airlines price these days, any advice would be gratefully received (well sensible anyway, and not to go is not sensible )

cheers

[shakotan]

jesta1865 said:

dear all, the OH and I are hoping to get to OZ (Queensland, yes but we have family there) in August, as the prices seem very high for their 'winter' am i right in thinking that they are standard fares and I will only start to see discounts about 3 months in advance?

i used to travel a lot years ago but a big change in circumstances means I am not up to date with how the airlines price these days, any advice would be gratefully received (well sensible anyway, and not to go is not sensible )

cheers

August is Summer Holiday, schools are out! It's know for being one of the most expensive times to fly, regardless of what season your destination is in!

You want a best time to buy before August?

RIGHT NOW!

Several airlines have their winter sales on which end mid-Jan, so be quick. Further sales usually are not repeated until the end of Summer (i.e. after August)

As for discounts 3 months in advance, don't count on it. If anything, prices will go UP as seat availability becomes reduced.

Edited by shakotan on Thursday 13th January 17:18

[Puggit]

Shakotan speaks sense.

Air fares work on a first come, first served policy. The earlier you buy your ticket, the cheaper it is. As the tickets get bought, the cheaper fares are used up and they get more expensive.

You'll be lucky to beat the current price (but it isn't impossible).

[yellowbentines]

Puggit said:

Air fares work on a first come, first served policy. The earlier you buy your ticket, the cheaper it is. As the tickets get bought, the cheaper fares are used up and they get more expensive.

You'll be lucky to beat the current price (but it isn't impossible).

I've been watching August flights to the USA for around 3 months with various airlines, they've steadily been dropping each month by £75-£100 or so, and are not included in the airline's current sale offers.