price travel best day

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

The Best Days to Book a Flight and When to Fly

Meghan Coyle started as a web producer and writer at NerdWallet in 2018. She covers travel rewards, including industry news, airline and hotel loyalty programs, and how to travel on points. She is based in Los Angeles.

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Believing there’s just one optimal day a week to save on flights — and that day is Tuesday — is the stuff of legends. And like all good legends, there is some truth to it … but it’s not the whole story.

The reality is that flight prices change constantly and at all hours of the day, adjusting to real-time demand. Airlines don’t restock on the same day every week like a grocery store, so you won’t find deals by waiting until Tuesdays to book. However, you might find some modest savings if you’re willing to fly on Saturdays or midweek, when there’s less demand than usual.

Here’s what the data shows on the best days to book a flight and when to fly.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Best day to book a flight

No single day of the week is best to book a flight. You can find deals any day of the week since flight prices fluctuate with demand.

Airlines might offer sales, increase the number of seats on a route or even lower prices to match a competitor, so there’s no actual pattern in what day of the week has the best deals.

Best day to fly

Hopper — a travel booking app — collected flight booking data from October 2023 through April 1, 2024 for May 2024 departures. Here are the findings about the best day to fly.

Tuesday and Friday flights can help you avoid the rush earlier in the week

Sundays and Mondays are the most expensive days to depart for domestic trips. If you can’t fly on the cheapest days, flying on Tuesdays or Fridays might also be a good option. The average airfare is about 12% lower than peak Sunday prices on these days.

Mondays can still be a relatively expensive day to fly domestically. By departing on Monday instead of Sunday, you can expect to save only about $9, or about 3%.

Wednesdays and Saturdays are the cheapest day to fly internationally

Meanwhile, international flyers would also be wise to leave on Wednesdays or Saturdays, usually the cheapest days to depart for an international trip. That said, there isn’t a huge difference in price across the days of the week for most international routes.

Hopper estimates that leaving on a Wednesday for Europe will only save you about 10% compared to the most expensive day (Friday).

Fly on the holidays (or as far from it as possible)

Holidays are an entirely different beast, no matter whether it’s the Fourth of July or Labor Day. There are generally more people flying in the days around a holiday, so there are fewer airplane seats available and higher prices.

To get the best deal, book as early as possible. Because many airlines have flexible cancellation policies, it doesn’t hurt to lock in a decent rate ahead of time and rebook if the flight price drops in the months after. According to Google Flights’ 2023 insights, the best time to book a mid-December holiday flight is 71 days before departure.

In many cases, the best day to fly will be further out from the holiday. If the holiday falls on a Monday, flying the Tuesday before will likely be cheaper than flying the Friday before. You can also look at flying on the holiday itself. For example, flying on Christmas Day or Thanksgiving Day is usually much more affordable than flying on the days before or after.

Here are our recommendations for when to fly around some of the major holidays based on recent checkpoint data from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA):

The best days to fly around Memorial Day .

The best days to fly around Fourth of July .

The best days to fly around Labor Day .

The best days to fly around Thanksgiving .

The best days to fly around Christmas .

The best days to fly around the winter holidays .

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

on Citibank's application

• 5 points per dollar spent on travel (including flights) booked through Chase.

• 2 points per dollar on other travel (including flights).

Annual fee: $95 .

• 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (on up to $500K per calendar year). Terms apply.

Annual fee: $695 .

• 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. Terms apply.

Annual fee: $250 .

• 3 points per dollar spent on air travel.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express , see this page . To view rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card , see this page .

Tips to find cheap flights any day of the week

Book one to three months in advance.

Even though no day of the week consistently has cheaper flights, there is a time period during which you should book before prices go up.

Going, a flight deals aggregator, recommends booking domestic flights one to three months in advance to avoid any price surges in the weeks leading up to the departure date. Last-minute flight deals aren’t super common and you risk not getting a seat at all because your desired flight might ultimately sell out. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll want to look two to eight months out.

It doesn’t hurt to look at flight prices before the ideal booking window. Google Flights, for example, sometimes shows in the search results when it expects prices to be the lowest based on historical data for your route.

Set a price alert

Let a computer program do the work for you. Instead of checking flight prices every day, set a price alert on the travel search engine of your choice — whether it’s Google Flights , Hopper, Skyscanner or Kayak . They’ll send you an email when they see the price drop.

Rebook if you find a cheaper price

Most airlines have adopted more flexible change and cancellation policies , which make it easier to rebook your flight and save money.

First, you’ll have to make sure that the original flight you booked will not have change or cancellation fees. For most airlines, that applies to most main cabin and premium class tickets on domestic flights and some short-haul international flights. You usually cannot change or cancel basic economy tickets for free.

If you can cancel or change without fees, set a price alert. When the price drops, you can cancel your flight and rebook (on the same airline or a different one) to get the cheaper price. Be aware that you might only get a travel voucher or credit if you cancel, so you should only use the option if you are fairly confident you will fly with the original airline again within one year.

Be flexible with destination, airport and dates

The golden rule of cheap travel remains: Be flexible . Use Google Flights to see if there are cheaper places to go by leaving the destination field blank when you search. Check nearby airports if you’re set on a destination and use the calendar views to find lower prices on different dates. Maybe embrace a long layover as a chance to see another city on your trip.

After all, the best day to book a flight and the best day to fly is when it’s cheapest, and that could vary depending on when and where you are going.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

The best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare in 2024

• The best days to fly for the cheapest domestic and international fares are midweek.
• Aim to book domestic flights one to two months ahead of time. 
• For international flights, plan on booking three to five months ahead of the trip.

At TPG, one of our key goals is to help you find the cheapest airfare . However, your ability to find valuable airline deals depends on a few factors.

Flights during spring break, the peak of summer and, of course, the holidays are often much more expensive.

We're all looking to find the best deals we can. That's where some of our next tips come in.

Have you ever heard that booking a flight on a certain day of the week will yield the cheapest results? Perhaps you're thinking of a cousin who claims he found a great deal when he checked on airfare prices at 12:01 a.m. on a Wednesday. Maybe your friend swears by setting a reminder on their phone for 1 p.m. on a Thursday when they're shopping for flights.

While there is no shortage of rumors (and "studies") out there, here's what airfare experts say about how timing influences airfare prices so you can maximize airfare savings.

Is there a day that's cheaper than others to book a flight?

It's a question we get asked all the time: "What is the cheapest day to book a flight?" There's a common misperception that certain days are better for finding flight deals. However, research shows that this is a myth.

There is no magic day to book, but there are some sweet booking windows when airlines lower prices, according to Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at the booking app Hopper .

Hopper relies on 10 years of data and 80 trillion flight prices to recommend the best time to book specific routes and dates.

"Typically, we tell travelers for domestic trips to start monitoring prices three to four months in advance of a trip," Schwimer said. "Expect to book one to two months in advance."

For international trips, the window is a bit larger. You should start monitoring six to seven months prior to the trip and book it three to five months in advance. That's the recommendation from both Hopper and TPG.

"When you're traveling internationally, planning ahead is key to getting the cheapest airfare," Hayley Berg, Hopper's lead economist, said in another interview. "Travelers often book international flights too far in advance or too last minute, overpaying significantly for their tickets."

Remember that the strategy changes pretty dramatically if you book with points and miles . Airlines often open award space for coveted business- and first-class seats either when the schedules open or at the last minute.

As for whether there's a particular day that's cheaper than the rest for booking, Schwimer mentioned that "there's no one day or golden rule when to book."

Berg echoed this sentiment.

"There's a common myth that 'booking on a Tuesday' will guarantee a traveler the best price," she said. "The reality is prices change so often and depend on the route, the travel dates, etc., that there isn't one day that guarantees you the best price."

What's the best day to travel?

Although airfare prices fluctuate based on when you book, midweek travel is generally cheaper than flying on weekends. That said, Sundays can also be a sweet spot.

"Flying midweek can save you nearly $100 off your ticket," Schwimer said. "So when you're thinking about when you want to travel, try shifting your dates midweek versus flying over the weekend. If you can be flexible and book either a Tuesday or Wednesday versus a Friday or Saturday, you're gonna save significantly off your trip."

Berg had similar thoughts.

"Travelers who fly midweek, usually Wednesday, can save an average of $56 per ticket on domestic airfare throughout the year," she said. "Midweek savings spike over $60 per ticket during busy spring break and summer vacation months while flying midweek over the holidays can save you $100 or more."

Schwimer also had some good advice to price the first flight of the day. Often, you'll find those early departures can save you some big bucks. It's not easy to set the alarm for 4 a.m., but it's easier to wake up when you know you're saving money.

"We always recommend booking the first flight of the day, not only to avoid delays and cancellations but also in terms of price," she said.

Additionally, according to Bob Harrell — an airfare consultant at Harrell Associates who analyzes airline pricing — you might also find airfare prices fluctuate Monday through Friday. That's because airlines look at customer demand and monitor booking trends to decide whether to open or close certain types of fares and whether to raise or lower existing fares.

So, how can you use this information to your advantage when buying airline tickets?

Try using a price monitoring tool to get real-time updates to help you decide when to travel for the lowest fare. Tools like Google Flights and Hopper's "Watch This Trip" can help you track the price of your desired route before booking and indicate or directly notify you when prices are at the lowest for your trip.

When to book holiday travel

Best time to book flights for spring break.

The best time to book your spring break trip is very soon. You should already be monitoring prices for where you want to go, and you should be ready to pull the trigger soon if you haven't done so already, depending on when your (and your family's) time off falls.

For example, if your spring break falls in March, the ideal time to book is by early February.

That said, if you see a deal, jump on it. We've seen a lot of deals pop up around spring break, and if you can score one, it's all the better. Flexibility will also help here.

Remember that demand surges during the spring break period after the doldrums of winter. Many people wait too long to book those trips and end up paying more than they need to.

Hopper says prices for airfare will fall between one and three months before departure, and prices will rise rapidly in the last three to four weeks before spring break.

Best time to book flights for summer trips

As spring draws nearer, it's not too early to start planning ahead for summer holiday travel.

"If you're booking a trip over Memorial Day weekend, you'll want to start monitoring prices now and book as soon as you see a good deal," Berg said. She also noted that prices tend to drop on average one to two months before departure.

If you are planning on staying closer to home this summer, Hopper recommends monitoring flight prices a minimum of three to four months in advance and then booking one to two months before the intended travel date.

"Prices will change frequently," Berg said. "Don't wait too long to book, and prices can increase by almost double in the last three weeks ahead of takeoff."

If you plan to head abroad this summer, the booking window is naturally further out, particularly for longer-haul transpacific flights.

"For trips to Asia and Oceania, we recommend booking five to seven months before takeoff," Berg said. "For Europe and other regions of the world, we recommend booking anywhere from three to six months before departure to get the best prices."

Best time to book flights for Thanksgiving and Christmas

The cheapest holiday airfare deals are generally available in September and October.

"We tell people to start monitoring in August," Schwimer said, "but our typical book-by date is mid-October, so usually around the 14th of October." She added that "no later than Halloween is usually our book-by date for both Thanksgiving and Christmas."

Similarly, a Google Flights booking trends report suggested that average flight prices around Christmas were lowest 71 days before departure.

Prices will only rise as the holidays approach, so your best bet is to book sooner rather than later.

Best time to book flights for New Year's Eve

Like Christmas flights, Hopper says you should try to lock in bookings for New Year's by Halloween at the latest.

That is true for "really any of the major winter holidays," Berg said. "We recommend booking further in advance. I would book that New Year's Eve trip as well before Halloween."

What about hotels?

Hotels are a special category where you can often wait until much later to score good deals.

"We often see good deals last minute for hotels in big cities. Something to keep in mind ... especially for those holiday weekends," Schwimer told TPG. "And you know that [during] the Christmas holiday period, you can often find some really great last-minute deals in big cities if you wait.

"Obviously, that's not always ideal in terms of planning," Schwimer continued, "but we have seen some really great deals in that last-minute window in big metro cities."

Bottom line

While there is no magical time or day to book airfare for the best prices, your best bet is to fly midweek, specifically on Wednesdays, for both domestic and international travel. Flying over the weekend can come at a significant price premium, though Sundays have occasional deals.

Also, try booking domestic flights one to two months ahead of time.

For international flights, your best bet is to aim to book three to five months ahead of the trip.

If you are using airline miles , remember that it's never too soon to start checking and booking.

Related reading:

• Best airline credit cards
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations

• Credit Cards
• All Credit Cards
• Find the Credit Card for You
• Best Credit Cards
• Best Rewards Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best 0% APR Credit Cards
• Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
• Best Cash Back Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses
• Best Credit Cards to Build Credit
• Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping
• Find the Best Personal Loan for You
• Best Personal Loans
• Best Debt Consolidation Loans
• Best Loans to Refinance Credit Card Debt
• Best Loans with Fast Funding
• Best Small Personal Loans
• Best Large Personal Loans
• Best Personal Loans to Apply Online
• Best Student Loan Refinance
• Best Car Loans
• All Banking
• Find the Savings Account for You
• Best High Yield Savings Accounts
• Best Big Bank Savings Accounts
• Best Big Bank Checking Accounts
• Best No Fee Checking Accounts
• No Overdraft Fee Checking Accounts
• Best Checking Account Bonuses
• Best Money Market Accounts
• Best Credit Unions
• All Mortgages
• Best Mortgages
• Best Mortgages for Small Down Payment
• Best Mortgages for No Down Payment
• Best Mortgages for Average Credit Score
• Best Mortgages No Origination Fee
• Adjustable Rate Mortgages
• Affording a Mortgage
• All Insurance
• Best Life Insurance
• Best Life Insurance for Seniors
• Best Homeowners Insurance
• Best Renters Insurance
• Best Car Insurance
• Best Pet Insurance
• Best Boat Insurance
• Best Motorcycle Insurance
• Best Travel Insurance
• Event Ticket Insurance
• Small Business
• All Small Business
• Best Small Business Savings Accounts
• Best Small Business Checking Accounts
• Best Credit Cards for Small Business
• Best Small Business Loans
• Best Tax Software for Small Business
• Personal Finance
• All Personal Finance
• Best Budgeting Apps
• Best Expense Tracker Apps
• Best Money Transfer Apps
• Best Resale Apps and Sites
• Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) Apps
• Best Debt Relief
• Credit Monitoring
• All Credit Monitoring
• Best Credit Monitoring Services
• Best Identity Theft Protection
• How to Boost Your Credit Score
• Best Credit Repair Companies
• Filing For Free
• Best Tax Software
• Best Tax Software for Small Businesses
• Tax Refunds
• Tax Brackets
• Taxes By State
• Tax Payment Plans
• Help for Low Credit Scores
• All Help for Low Credit Scores
• Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit
• Best Personal Loans for Bad Credit
• Best Debt Consolidation Loans for Bad Credit
• Personal Loans if You Don't Have Credit
• Best Credit Cards for Building Credit
• Personal Loans for 580 Credit Score Lower
• Personal Loans for 670 Credit Score or Lower
• Best Mortgages for Bad Credit
• Best Hardship Loans
• All Investing
• Best IRA Accounts
• Best Roth IRA Accounts
• Best Investing Apps
• Best Free Stock Trading Platforms
• Best Robo-Advisors
• Index Funds
• Mutual Funds
• Home & Kitchen
• Gift Guides
• Deals & Sales
• Sign up for the CNBC Select Newsletter
• Subscribe to CNBC PRO
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Terms Of Service
• CNBC Sitemap

Follow Select

Our top picks of timely offers from our partners

This is the best time to book your flight for cheaper tickets

It's not the day of the week that matters, but how far in advance you can book and other factors..

No matter how often you fly, saving money on airfare is always a welcome relief. While there are plenty of travel hacks that can help reduce the cost, some — such as the idea of saving a bundle on airfare by booking it on Tuesday — are slightly misunderstood.

The truth is, booking on a Tuesday for cheaper flights is not accurate. However, it is true that timing impacts the cost of a flight. CNBC Select spoke with Scott Keyes, founder and chief flight expert at flight deal subscription service Going (formerly Scott's Cheap Flights ) to understand the origin of the Tuesday misconception and the best approach to booking flights at a cheaper price.  

Why it doesn't matter what day of the week you book

If you're holding off on booking a flight because it's not Tuesday yet, you may want to reconsider this approach.  

Booking on a specific date worked back when airlines used to load their fares weekly at a predetermined time, and customers could book a ticket soon after on a first-come, first-served basis, resulting in affordable fares.  

However, airlines no longer operate this way.  

Instead, Keyes advises people to view fares like the volatility of the stock market . Each year, the stock market has a date where it performs the best but that doesn't mean it will always do well on that exact date.  

The same thing applies to cheap flights. While you may find that airfares look slightly different on a given day, it does not have any predictive power for when they'll drop in the future.  

How can you score cheap airfare? 

Rather than targeting precise dates when hunting for cheap flights, you should instead look for what Keyes calls "the Goldilocks window" — a period of time when cheap fares are most likely to pop up for domestic and international flights. 

"If it's an off-peak season — not middle of summer, Christmas or New Year's — then booking about one to three months in advance is typically when cheap flights have the highest likelihood of popping up," he said. "When you're talking about international travel, two to eight months in advance."  

If you're traveling during peak season, Keyes suggests booking three to seven months in advance for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international.  

He also emphasized that while there's no guarantee you'll get the best deal, the odds are more in your favor during these times.  

Follow the 21-day rule for last-minute travel 

If you're not in a position to book a flight months in advance and still hope to score the cheapest option available, make sure to book sooner rather than later. Keyes suggests booking your ticket at least 21 days before departure (if possible), since airlines have policies that will substantially raise the price of airfare for trips taking place after that deadline.

What is the most affordable day of the week to travel? 

You may not get cheaper airfare by booking on a specific day, but when you plan on flying can affect the price of the ticket. Generally, Mondays and Fridays are more expensive than Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Keyes says this is mainly because business travelers tend to avoid traveling in the middle of the week.  

Early morning flights are also less popular since people usually prefer waking up later for their flight. Keyes says the other benefit of early flights is that they have what's known as a completion factor — a flight's on-time arrival — which tends to be about 25 percentage points higher than afternoon or evening flights. This is because the aircraft for the first flight of the day has been parked in the airport overnight, whereas other planes are coming in from other locations later in the day. 

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

When to use airline miles for travel 

If you're looking to use airline miles for your travels, keep in mind that these function differently than regular airfare as airlines release award seats in increments of time. Keyes says that some airlines will make seats available about 11 months in advance, then again in 6 months and then a couple of weeks before departure.  

This means if you have to book last minute, try to use airline miles since many airlines release award seats up until the day of departure. Keyes also recommends using miles when traveling during peak season.  

"If you were to search a flight from New York to Paris in July, you'll see that fares are as high as $1,600 round-trip. If you booked it with miles, they were as low as 24,000 miles round-trip." 

And if you're looking to earn airline miles to redeem for these last-minute flights, consider some of CNBC Select's favorite travel credit cards . The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , for example, currently offers a welcome bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within three months after opening your account.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% variable

Balance transfer fee

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

Terms apply.

If you're interested in earning points with your travel purchases (and are fine with paying an annual fee of $550), you can use the Chase Sapphire Reserve®  to earn 5X points on flights and 10X points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase through Chase Travel℠ (immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually).

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

22.49% - 29.49% variable

5%, minimum $5

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

Bottom line 

When planning for travel and thinking of ways to score the best deals for your travel plans , remember that no fixed date will ensure you the cheapest fare. However, the sooner you book, the better. Be mindful of your departure date and consider Keyes' "Goldilocks window" method to avoid paying more than you have to for your next getaway.  

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date

• State Farm vs. Geico car insurance Liz Knueven
• Axos Bank is offering a bonus of up to $500 when you open a new Rewards Checking Account Andreina Rodriguez
• SquareMouth travel insurance review 2024 Liz Knueven

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Tips

The Best Day and Time to Book Flights to Save Money

We spoke to Expedia to find the best time of day and day of the week to book flights to save money.

Best Day of the Week to Book Flights

Best time of day to book flights.

• Tips for Finding Cheap Flights

Rawpixel/Getty Images

We've said it before and we'll say it again — when it comes to booking flights, there is no magical day of the week or time of day that will guarantee you a good deal. But can you play the odds to increase your chance of finding a good deal? According to Expedia, yes. We dug through Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks report and spoke to Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson for some helpful tips for scoring cheap flights.

The most important thing to understand when searching for cheap airfare is that airlines use dynamic pricing to set rates. That means a complex algorithm determines what the airfare should be based on real-time demand — and that means flight prices can change at any moment, often multiple times a day. That's why there's not technically one single day that's the "best" day to book.

That said, there's a bit of a caveat here. Even though you can't predict when prices will drop, you can look at data to see which day of the week tends to have the lowest prices, which is exactly what Expedia has done in its Air Travel Hacks report. "Airfare pricing is incredibly dynamic. It used to be that Tuesdays were the best day to book, but after analyzing millions of bookings over the last two years, Sunday came out 13 percent cheaper," says Hudson. "I've tested this theory dozens of times myself, and it tracks." A recent study by Upgraded Points also found that the cheapest day to book can also vary by airline.

Now, that doesn't mean that every flight will be cheaper if booked on a Sunday. That 13 percent figure is just an average — and it's specifically for international flights. Domestic flights, on the other hand, are only 6 percent cheaper on average if booked on a Sunday. So is it worth taking a look at flights on a Sunday? Sure. But it's also a good idea to monitor prices throughout the whole week, since you never know when prices might drop.

Now this is where you're pretty much out of luck when it comes to gaming the system. Before airline revenue management systems were automated, there might've been a specific "drop time" when an airline would change fares. But given the dynamic pricing model, airfare can change at any moment. So there's truly no reason to look for flights at a specific time of day. What you can do, however, is set price alerts for a flight , which will give you real-time notifications about price changes. Expedia's alerts even use data to predict whether or not pricing will drop further.

Rawf8/Getty Images

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights 

Book your flight early..

More important than booking flights on a specific day of the week is booking flights during the "ideal booking window." According to Expedia's Air Travel Hacks report, international flights should be booked 60 days out and domestic flights should be booked 28 days out for the best savings. For international flights, that might save you around 10 percent compared to those who booked even earlier, and for domestic flights, that might save you 24 percent compared to those who book at the last minute.

Fly on a Thursday (or a Monday, or a Tuesday).

Another way to find cheap airfare is to choose your travel dates wisely. "The Air Travel Hacks report says Thursdays are generally the cheapest and Sundays are the most expensive day to start your trip. This can vary by season, however," says Hudson. "Based on our Summer Travel Outlook, which analyzed bookings from summer 2023, during the summer months people who departed on Monday (international flights) or Tuesday (domestic flights) saved around 15 percent compared to those that departed on Thursday and Friday." Consider looking at a flight price calendar to see if bumping your trip up or back a few days might net you a big savings on airfare. Just remember that you might lose out by paying more for accommodations.

Track flight prices after you book a flight.

This is perhaps the best hack of them all. After you book a flight, continue to monitor your specific flight's prices. If the airfare drops, you can rebook your flight and pocket the difference in airfare as an airline e-credit. Or you could automate the process and potentially snag a genuine refund. "Expedia's Price Drop Protection is my secret weapon when it comes to booking airfare. You can add it onto your flight booking and get an automatic refund if the flight fare decreases on Expedia after you’ve booked," says Hudson. "To date, I've gotten back hundreds of dollars. There’s a nominal fee for Price Drop Protection, unless you’re a Gold or Platinum One Key member booking on the app."

Don't be fooled by basic economy fares.

Yes, basic economy is the cheapest fare class, but it's highly restrictive. You won't be able to choose your seat in advance, nor will you be able to change or cancel your flight. But beyond that, one of the biggest downsides to basic economy is that you have to pay for additional services. "It may be cheaper initially, but once you’ve added in seat selection or baggage fees, the savings might not be as significant," says Hudson. Definitely do the math before booking basic economy (or, as we'd suggest, just avoid booking basic economy altogether.)

Related Articles

It's warming up! Beat the heat and upgrade your summer with these finds

• Share this —

• Watch Full Episodes
• Read With Jenna
• Inspirational
• Relationships
• TODAY Table
• Newsletters
• Start TODAY
• Shop TODAY Awards
• Citi Concert Series
• Listen All Day

Follow today

More Brands

• On The Show
• TODAY Plaza

When is the best time to book flights?

When deciding the best time to book your flight, you've most likely asked yourself: Is it worth waiting to see if the price drops? Are there days of the week when it's cheapest to book? When is the best time to buy airfare for the holidays?

Well, there's good news and bad news: The good news is that there isn't one right answer for when the best time is to book your flight. The bad news is that there isn't one right answer for when the best time is to book your flight.

"Everyone wants a golden rule for when to book flights for the best price," Hayley Berg, who works as lead economist at Hopper, a travel app that predicts cost for flights and hotels, tells TODAY.com.

"The reality is that the best time to book a flight depends on a number of factors, like where you’re flying to, the dates, if you’re flying with stops or without, what cabin class you’re considering, etc."

Travelers can utilize tools like Hopper, which allows you to set a "Watch" alert for when flight prices drop, or Kayak's new Best Time to Travel feature that gives you the cheapest dates to choose from for traveling to your desired destination.

However, if you have a specific date range in mind and want to know when you should be jumping on a deal, we have you covered.

Which day is the cheapest to book a flight?

Many travel sites will say booking on different days of the week will result in cheaper flights. However, according to Jesse Ashlock, deputy global editorial director and U.S. editor of Condé Nast Traveler, booking on a specific day of the week makes no difference .

“There’s no magical day of the week, which some people will tell you," Ashlock said on TODAY Aug. 9.

However, Ashlock does recommend people mark their calendar for Travel Deal Tuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving that is basically the Black Friday and Cyber Monday of travel deals, as a day to score potential flight deals.

Other than that, "You're not going to get a better deal by (booking) on a Wednesday," Ashlock said.

Which day is the cheapest to fly?

While there isn't a day of the week to book your flight that guarantees you cheaper airfare, there are days of the week to fly that could shave off a few bucks.

According to Expedia's 2023 Air Travel Report , flying out on a Wednesday for domestic flights can save you on average 15% compared to the beginning of the week (Sunday or Monday), and for international flights, you can save on average 10% with a Wednesday ticket compared to flying out over the weekend.

Berg says that Hopper's findings are similar: Travelers who depart on a Tuesday or Wednesday can save on average 17% on domestic flights. CheapAir.com's 2023 International Airfare Study echoes similar sentiments for international travel, saying that flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday grants the best chance at booking a cheaper flight compared to the other days of the week.

When to book flights for summer travel

Berg says the general rule of thumb is to book your flight three-to-five months out from your departure date. For your summer travel, that means as early as January, which Berg says is one of the best months to snag a good deal.

"January is one of the cheapest months to buy flight tickets," she tells TODAY.com. "Airfare prices typically drop in January after the holiday travel season because of low demand making it a good time to book flights, especially for travel through the rest of the winter."

She also notes that for long-haul international trips from the U.S., like to Asia or Australia, flight tickets are often at their lowest five months out.

If your summer travel dates can be flexible, Berg suggests considering booking your flights to travel in September to avoid the expensive airfare during peak summer months.

"You can save as much as 30% off peak summer prices just by traveling in September versus peak summer months, like July and August," Berg explains.

When to book flights for the holidays

The sooner you know that you're traveling in November and December, the sooner you can start monitoring airfare prices since flight costs in the months leading up to the holiday season will see-saw. However, Berg says to resist the temptation to officially book until the summer months are over.

"Holiday fares remain high through the summer then drop slowly into September and October," she says. "The best time to book your holiday trips is typically in September and early October when prices will be as much as $100 cheaper per ticket than they are (in the summer)."

Ashlock says that you should stick to a 20-to-60-day window when booking your travels for the holiday season and winter travel at large. In August, for example, Ashlock suggests people start booking for October travel.

Don't book your flights too early

Just like you don't want to wait until the last-minute to book your flight, you also don't want to lock in your airfare too far out from your departure date.

Expedia's 2023 Air Travel Report says booking out too far in advance can cost you. The report states that domestic flights purchased "earlier than 113 days out has historically been more expensive," but the upside to booking early is having more flights to choose from.

Save money by being flexible with your dates — and your destination

If you're not locked into traveling during a specific date, you can save yourself a pretty penny by being flexible with when you travel based on when it's cheapest to fly.

Sites like Kayak and Skyscanner, a metasearch engine and travel agency, lets travelers see pricing on a monthly calendar view so it's easy to toggle between dates to find the cheapest time to fly.

"Pricing and crowds are both driven by demand, and this is totally dependent on route and time of travel," Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner, tells TODAY.com. "If possible, being flexible and flying on less popular days of the week will make it easier to find deals."

Another way to save money on your flights is being open to the destination.

"Let’s say you know what dates you’ve got to travel on, but you could go anywhere, you don’t have to be anywhere," Ashlock said on TODAY. "You can go on Skyscanner and choose the dates you want and then the option 'Explore Everywhere,' and then you can skim what the most affordable flight options are.

"One of the things I like about this is you kind of let your vacation choose you, there’s a little bit of element of surprise there, which can be really fun," Ashlock concluded.

Nicoletta Richardson is the trending editor for TODAY Digital and is based around the New York City area.

Beach day etiquette: What to do and public behaviors to avoid

This summer's most-searched travel destinations may surprise you

I thought my son loved our family trips. Now I see I was just being selfish

Bravo’s Capt. Sandy Yawn on her ‘incredible’ wedding and the importance of showing her relationship

Tiana's Bayou Adventure: All about the new Disney ride — including when it's opening

I’m a travel expert. These are 5 things I would never do when planning a trip

California second-grade teacher becomes rare traveler to visit every country in the world

20 wild food items Uber riders actually left behind, from oysters to meat pie

100 travel captions to take with you on the road

A group of cruise ship passengers were stranded on an African island. What happened?

Which Day Of The Week Is The Best Day To Book Flights?

Tuesday has been hailed as the magic day to book cheap flights for years but data from Hopper and Google Flights challenges this notion.

Faith Katunga • Jun 19, 2024

Tuesday has been hailed as the magic day to book flights at the cheapest rates for years . However, According to USA Today, data from Hopper and Google Flights challenge this notion. An analysis spanning six years revealed that airfare booked on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays is only 1.9% cheaper than those booked on weekends. This marginal difference suggests that the day you book might not significantly impact your savings .

Hopper’s lead economist, Hayley Berg, emphasized this point, stating, “The best day, and time, to book a flight depends on a number of factors. We found that Tuesday was the cheapest day just 1% of the time.”

The Surprising New Best Day

Contrary to popular belief, Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks report, published in September 2023, highlights Sunday as the best day to book flights. Travelers who booked on Sundays saved an average of 13% compared to those who booked on Fridays, the most expensive day. An Expedia travel expert, Christie Hudson, noted that these findings are based on billions of data points from the Airlines Reporting Corporation and OAG, a global travel industry data platform.

While the day of booking plays a role, other factors significantly impact airfare pricing. Tools like Hopper or Capital One Travel to monitor flight prices can help you identify the best booking times . These tools often provide alerts when prices drop, ensuring you maximize potential savings. For domestic flights, aiming to book between one and three months before departure saves a great deal. On the other hand, four to five months in advance is ideal for international flights.

Choose The Right Day To Fly

The day you fly can significantly affect your ticket price. Flying in the middle of the week, such as on Tuesday or Wednesday, can save you an average of 18% on domestic summer airfare. For international travel, the savings are even more substantial. Hopper found that flying to Europe on a Tuesday or Wednesday can save $435 per ticket. Google Flights also supports this, stating that flights on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday are 12% cheaper on average than those on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.

Subscribe to travel noire

Get more travel content

Subscribe to Travel Noire, a free daily newsletter that features the best of travel, destinations, and guides to the cities you love from a new point of view — yours.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Popular posts

Trending stories in world travel

Compare package deals to find the right one.

Search vacation deals by destination, find vacation packages, las vegas vacations, honolulu vacations, toronto vacations, paris vacations, new york vacations, cancún vacations, rome vacations, san juan vacations, miami beach vacations, montego bay vacations, punta cana vacations, key west vacations, orlando vacations, barcelona vacations, hawaii vacations.

Search vacation packages on KAYAK. Search for the cheapest package for all major destinations around the world . KAYAK is a travel tool that searches hundreds of travel sites to help you find the vacation package that suits you best.

Not what you’re looking for? Find thousands of other hotels , flights , car rentals and trains and buses with KAYAK.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Search vacation packages & trips.

As a  One Key member , earn up to 10x more OneKeyCash on your flight when you book a package.

Enjoy flexibility with our Book now Pay later option & fully refundable rates on most hotels

Customize your vacation with ease all in one place

Top domestic vacation destinations

Tick one more destination off of your bucket list with one of our most popular vacations

Los Angeles

Top international vacation destinations

Explore the world with international vacation packages and visit one of our most popular destinations

Cabo San Lucas

Playa Del Carmen

Find your perfect vacation

Take a break from work and soak up the sun at one of our hottest vacation destinations

• Beach Vacations

Build a beach vacation package to suit your every need. Life is better on the beach!

• All Inclusive Vacations

All your needs are catered for with an all-inclusive vacation package. All the extras that make a lifetime of memories.

Family Vacations

Great offers for the entire family. Find peace of mind when you book a family vacation package with Expedia.

• Cheap Vacations

Expedia's cheap deals on vacation packages ensure your next trip is memorable and affordable.

Last Minute Vacations

Planning a romantic break for 2 or an impromptu trip with the whole family? Expedia helps you find last-minute vacation deals.

Romantic Getaways

From honeymoon packages in far-flung destinations to a weekend luxury spa break, find your perfect couples vacation.

Find your next vacation package 

Are vacation packages worth it.

Vacation packages can save a lot on your vacation, as discounts may be available when booking multiple aspects of your vacation at once, such as the hotel and the flight. Flights and hotel packages can include a car rental at your destination. Check our package deal today on Expedia!

How much do vacation packages cost?

The exact cost of a vacation package varies based on various factors such as destination, accommodation quality, flight class, and even the time of year you visit. The type of vacation you embark on can also affect cost with options like family packages and all-inclusive packages . You can search for your specific price range, too, with plenty of vacations under $1,000 , for example. 

How to choose your vacation package?

To find the best vacation package, you'll need to consider the type of vacation you're looking to enjoy and the destination. Using the site's search function, you can find a wide variety of packages available for your chosen vacation location, while search filters can narrow down options based on vacation type. Browse our deals now.

How to find cheap vacation packages?

If you're looking to save, be sure to set filters for any budget limitations you may have in your search. Additionally, you can sort by price to automatically put the cheapest options first in your search results. Weekend getaway packages can be relatively inexpensive as well if you are looking for cheap getaways. 

How to vacation on a budget?

Budget-friendly travel is easy when you book with Expedia, as we can help you keep prices low via search filters, but that's not all. There are general trends to keep in mind regarding prices, such as travel packages generally being cheaper during the off-season of your vacation destination. Additionally, the higher the quality amenities you opt for, the higher the price typically is.

How to get great vacation deals?

Vacation deals are common with Expedia, as we offer plenty of discounts on great packages, with packages already being a deal compared to booking hotels and flights separately.

How to find last-minute vacation deals?

To book last-minute vacation trips, simply input your travel dates into the search and see what's available at that time for your destination. You can still filter based on virtually anything you can imagine, including amenities, price, star rating, and more.

Where should I go on vacation?

Booking a Hawaii vacation package is especially popular with all sorts of travelers, whether it's families or couples, and Disney World packages have much to offer for families. Consider the kind of vacation you're looking for to determine the perfect destination. 

What are some of the best vacation spots?

Top vacation spots include cheap Caribbean vacations and European vacation packages . With rich culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, a vacation package to these destinations can provide an unforgettable adventure. 

Where to go on a vacation in the US?

Staying in the US still offers easy access to great vacation places with Vegas packages and a Grand Canyon vacation being popular choices among other options. Whether you’re seeking the thrills of the Vegas Strip or the majestic views of the Grand Canyon, browse your options today.  

Where to go on vacation on a budget?

Cheap vacation ideas can still take you to a variety of great cheap vacation destinations, including Yellowstone vacations and Glacier National Park vacations . Parks and outdoor experiences tend to be free, so national park vacations are excellent for a budget-friendly trip. 

What are some great all-inclusive vacation packages?

All-inclusive vacations to the Bahamas and all-inclusive vacations to Cancun are some of the best options available, putting you in a Caribbean paradise. However, all-inclusive vacations are more varied than you might think, with worldwide options. 

What are the best destinations for a family vacation?

Traveling with kids means you'll need to find fun for the whole family, and Orlando vacation packages can put you and your little ones in the world's theme park capital. Of course, a vacation package to Anaheim offers a similar experience on the West coast. 

Where should I go on vacation this summer?

If you're looking to embrace the season, head to the beach with a summer vacation package to Destin . Of course, you may be more interested in escaping the heat with something like a vacation package to Vancouver . 

How to find cheap beach vacations?

In your search, you can apply search filters for beach trip packages and sort your results by price to see the cheap vacation options first. With those standards, you can find amazing cheap trips with beach vacation packages like vacation packages to Panama City and vacation packages to Myrtle Beach . 

What are some great couples' vacations?

Traveling with your partner means a more romantic adventure, which is easy when you book vacation packages to Honolulu . However, you can always opt for the classics and get a vacation package to Paris . Even a simple 3-day cheap getaway can be suitable. 

What are the best destinations for a luxury vacation?

One of the best destinations for luxury is a Las Vegas vacation package , as the city was essentially designed to make visitors feel luxurious. Of course, a Lake Tahoe vacation package can be just as fulfilling as a more outdoor-oriented experience. Golf vacations also tend to be quite elegant. 

How to find great Christmas vacation packages?

To find an excellent package for a Christmas vacation, simply put your travel dates into the search and discover what's available. Vacation packages to New York and vacation packages to Chicago are trendy around Christmas. 

Where to get ski vacation packages?

Ski vacation packages are readily available on Expedia, including vacation packages to Aspen , vacation packages to Vail , and packages to other notable ski resorts. Check out the deals now and book your next ski vacation today.  

Can I cancel my vacation package with Expedia?

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are travelling with.

Why should I book my vacation package with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia makes it easy to plan your entire vacation in advance. Vacation packages with airfare included can also feature a rental car and even activities in some cases, with discounts typically coming with booking more than one aspect of your trip at a time. One Key members will earn  OneKeyCash  with every eligible booking that you can use to save on future eligible bookings. Membership is free, sign up today!

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia,  Hotels.com  and Vrbo.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Domestic vacation packages & getaways.

• New Orleans Vacations
• Fort Lauderdale Vacations
• Chicago Vacations
• Phoenix Vacations
• Williamsburg Vacations
• Laughlin Vacations
• Atlantic City Vacations
• Portland Vacations
• Austin Vacations
• U.S. Virgin Islands Vacations

Popular Vacation Destinations in Mexico

• Mexico Vacations
• Tulum Vacations
• Quintana Roo Vacations
• San José del Cabo Vacations
• Puerto Vallarta Vacations
• Cozumel Vacations
• Acapulco Vacations
• Tijuana Vacations

International Vacation Packages & Trips

• Paris Vacations
• Greece Vacations
• Bahamas Vacations
• Aruba Vacations
• London Vacations
• France Vacations
• Bali Vacations
• Colombia Vacations
• Belize Vacations
• Toronto Vacations
• Honolulu Vacations
• Nassau Vacations
• St. Thomas Vacations
• Bora Bora Vacations
• Montego Bay Vacations
• Dominican Republic Vacations
• Negril Vacations
• Tampa Vacations
• Puerto Rico Vacations

Vacations from

• Vacations from Atlanta
• Vacations from Austin
• Vacations from Boston
• Vacations from Chicago
• Vacations from Dallas
• Vacations from Houston
• Vacations from Las Vegas
• Vacations from Los Angeles
• Vacations from Miami
• Vacations from New York
• Vacations from Orlando
• Vacations from Philadelphia
• Vacations from Phoenix
• Vacations from Pittsburgh
• Vacations from Seattle
• Vacations from Washington

Best Vacation Destinations by Month

• January Vacations and Deals
• February Vacations and Deals
• March Vacations and Deals
• April Vacations and Deals
• May Vacations and Deals
• June Vacations and Deals
• July Vacations and Deals
• August Vacations and Deals
• September Vacations and Deals
• October Vacations and Deals
• November Vacations and Deals
• December Vacations and Deals

Other Vacation ideas

• Vacation Payment Plans
• Weekend Getaways
• Last Minute Vacation Deals
• 3 Day Getaways
• Plan a Trip
• Thanksgiving Getaways Deals
• Vacations Under $500
• Christmas Vacation Deals
• Vacations Under $1000
• New Year's Vacation Deals

More Types of Vacations

• Adventure Vacations
• Golf Vacations
• Kid Friendly Vacations
• Luxury Vacations
• Romantic Vacations
• Ski Vacations
• Northern Lights Vacations
• Honeymoon Vacations
• Mountain Vacations
• Fishing Vacations
• Adults Only Vacations
• Waterpark Vacations
• Scuba Diving Vacations
• Yoga Vacations

35 BEST Travel Deal Sites [2024]: Flight, Hotel & Tour Deals

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Short on time? My top two picks for the best bargain travel sites to find cheap deals are Hotels.com and Going .

Our ultimate list of the best travel deal sites to make sure your money is well spent when planning your next trip.

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling for one week or one year; everyone wants to have their money go as far as possible. 

You can achieve this by finding cheap flights, reasonable prices on car rentals, and other great deals on the best vacation package websites.

Since 2020, travel deals have become harder to find due to labor shortages, the rising cost of fuel, and inflation. 

However, you can still find a good handful every month– if you know the best websites to find the best fares. And that’s is where this article comes in.  

Over the years, I’ve used numerous vacation websites and have narrowed down which are the best booking sites for saving the most amount of money and finding the best deals. 

With my years of first-hand experience, I’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to the best deal sites so that you can take advantage of them too.  

My style of travel ranges from budget to luxury, and so do these sites.

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so we can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Here’s a Quick Look at the Best Travel Deal Sites

• Best Tour and Travel Agency Deal Site – GetYourGuide
• Best Hotel Deal Site – Hotels.com
• Best Flight Deal Site – Going
• My Favorite Other Deal Site – Expedia

Table of Contents

Best Travel Websites for Finding Flight Deals

Google Flights

Google Flights is one of the overall best travel websites for flights to use when looking for cheap airfare. 

However, I use this website more as a jumping-off point rather than the only tool to book the cheapest flights possible. 

One of my favorite aspects about Google Flights is that it separates top-rated routes from the more unusual ones.

Also, Google Flights now has a price guarantee if their own price decreases after purchase, which can be pretty amazing.  

Just note that this will only apply to those flights that have the ‘price guarantee badge’ next to them.

For years now, Skyscanner has topped the list of my go-to travel websites when looking for cheap flight deals. 

It allows me to brainstorm an upcoming dream vacation easily by comparing graphs and calendars of prices. 

If my travel schedule is flexible, I can even search for the cheapest month to fly to that destination. 

One of Skyscanner’s better features is the option to search for flights without a destination. 

The ‘explore everywhere’ option gives a list of countries in order, starting from the cheapest to fly to from your starting destination. 

You can then click the box to get more details on the best fares for these flights. 

Another nice feature is the ability to turn on notifications for when prices drop for a certain route. The interface is also very easy to use, which is always a plus. 

If you want to keep it simple, you could honestly get away with just using Skyscanner and Google Maps to start planning a cheaper dream vacation today.

Hopper is a unique travel website that gives you deals only available on the platform. 

You are also able to collect carrot cash that you can redeem on their site for even better deals. 

Personally, I’ve found Hopper to be better in the United States than outside of it. Even with this limitation, flights in the United States can be expensive, so a deal is a deal. 

When you first join the website or app, you’ll immediately get money off your first flight, so that alone makes it worth using at least once.

Is Hopper all it’s cracked up to be? Check out our full Hopper review !

Skipplagged

Skipplagged is a unique resource that you can use on top of Google Flights and other travel sites. 

If you do flight research for long enough, you’ll come across destinations that are cheaper to fly to if you have it as a layover instead of the final destination. 

For example:

• If you want to fly to Panama City in Panama, the flight might cost you $200 one-way from Antigua. 
• You can then look at a flight from Antigua to Medellin and see that the flight has a layover in Panama City and only costs $150. 
• That’s $50 in savings if you get off at your layover.

Skipplagged cuts out the middleman in this scenario and helps you easily find these types of cheap flights. That $150 Medellin flight will appear in your search results for Panama City, marked as a ‘Skiplagged rate.’ It’s a sneaky way to score cheap nonstop flights.

Check out our Skiplagged review for more information on how this travel booking site works .

Going (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)

Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) is a newsletter and website that began in 2015 when a guy named Scott wanted to share flight deals with friends and family. 

Today, Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) is one of the top travel sites to find cheap flights around the world (don’t worry, you no longer need to know Scott personally to get on the email list). 

Once you sign up, you can choose your home airport and any nearby airports and you’ll then start receiving monthly or bi-monthly deals directly to your email. 

The Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) newsletter list has a free version and a premium version. 

The free version works great for those who don’t travel that often. 

If you’re a regular traveler, however, I’d recommend getting the premium version since it’s not that expensive compared to how much you can save on flights. 

Plus, you’ll not only receive their best flight deals but error fares as well (which are flights that an airline mistakenly lists as much cheaper than it’s worth.)

Secret Flying

Secret Flying is a company very similar to Going. On their site, they show you trending flight deals from all around the world. 

These deals can have savings of up to 90%. There’s also a search bar in case you’re looking for something very specific. 

Although I prefer Going over Secret Flying, it doesn’t hurt to have multiple options to check before you purchase a flight just in case you missed a great deal.

CheapOair has been around since 2005 and is one of the earliest travel websites to offer great deals on flights. 

They’ve since expanded their game to include certain travel packages, rental car bookings, and other activities. 

They also have a rewards program called ClubMiles where every 1,000 points equal $5 of rewards for their site.

Momondo is another free tool that allows you to compare prices on flights and travel packages. 

It used to be the main competitor to Skyscanner, but Skyscanner has since pulled ahead and is the app most travelers prefer these days. 

With that said, Momondo can still be a good site to check to see if you can find a lower price for a flight. 

It’s now also owned by Kayak, which makes sense when you see the different options that come up when you’re searching for travel deals. 

Some of the best ways this site can help you save money are through its flexible dates tool & multi-city option. 

The flexible dates tool is very easy to use for a quick glance at comparing prices and the multi-city option can help those long-term travelers plan their trips better.

Dollar Flight Club

Dollar Flight Club is the most comparable to Scott’s Cheap Flights (or Going). 

It has three different levels of membership. The free plan, premium, and premium plus. 

Similar to Going, they send the best flight deals straight to your inbox so you don’t have to do any of the work. These deals can also be up to 90% off.

With the premium plans, you can also get discounts on other discount travel sites for airfare and online travel agencies that they work with, like Babbel and Jubel.

Best Travel Booking Sites for Hotels Deals

Hotels.com is, in my opinion, the best website for booking hotels. Oftentimes, you’ll be able to find the best hotel deals here. 

What makes this site so unique is its rewards program. 

For each night you stay at a hotel, you’ll get a stamp. After collecting 10 stamps, you’ll get one night free (or the average price of your 10 stays), which can rack up a lot of savings.

Airbnb has changed the accommodation game since its arrival. 

The main perk of going through Airbnb compared to a hotel is that you get more of a feel of living in your destination. This is because people are renting out their homes to you. 

It’s also very possible to find great deals with this website. The best way to get a deal with Airbnb is if you plan to stay for longer periods. 

If you stay for a week or more, there are often weekly discounts that apply to your stay. If you plan to stay for one month or longer, the savings can be astronomical. 

The owners will oftentimes give you a great deal if you message them directly, and it’s what makes slow travel so enjoyable. 

Case in point–when our editor, Mimi, and her partner stayed at an Airbnb in Tahoe for a month, they were able to get it down to $3,000 total instead of the $7,000+ that was initially listed. 

Owners will often appreciate a guaranteed long-term stay and will be open to lowering prices to secure that. And really, it never hurts to ask!

Hostelworld

Hostelworld is the king of finding the best hostels from around the world. This platform is amazing for those travelers out there who are on a budget, particularly solo travelers.

The reviews are very important on this website because you don’t want to get stuck in a party hostel when you’re trying to sleep, so just do your research and you’ll be fine. 

There are all kinds of hostels, but the one thing hostels all have in common is that they’re usually a fraction of the price of a hotel. 

And, if you don’t like the idea of sharing a dorm, some still offer cheap private rooms. 

Hostels can also be a great way to meet other travelers, especially if you’re traveling solo but even if you’re traveling with a friend or two. 

Be sure to look for the ones with a free breakfast!

Booking.com

Booking.com is one of the best travel websites for booking accommodations because of how many options it gives you. 

You can find hotels and hostels on the website, although it focuses more on hotel stays.

Another huge perk of it being one of the biggest travel sites is the number of reviews. 

Reviews are huge when it comes to choosing which accommodation you want. Since Booking is such a popular site, there are usually a lot of reviews to read through for each property. 

Booking.com also just started offering its own reward program. 

Everyone starts out at Genius Level 1 and can find 10% discounts on select accommodation deals. 

Genius Level 2 unlocks after you stay at five places within two years, and it gives you 15% off!

The best deals come when you unlock Genius Level 3. 

Once you’ve stayed at 15 places, you can start enjoying 20% off on properties and even start getting rewards for each stay. You can then use the rewards balance to book other properties.

Although I love Hotels.com, it’s hard to ignore how strong of a contender Booking.com is as one of the best hotel deal sites, especially with its loyalty program.

HotelTonight

HotelTonight is great for those travelers who like to save and also don’t enjoy booking accommodation far in advance. 

This company specializes in last-minute deals. If you’re more of an off-the-cuff traveler who likes to decide where you’ll be staying for the night only once you arrive, this is the perfect website and app.

It allows you to still save some money on accommodation when booking things last-minute, which can be hard to come by in the hotel industry.

Kayak is a large search engine for everything travel-related. This site is easy to use and has some great tools to compare prices to get the cheapest possible rental car or hotel.

One of the best features of Kayak is its ‘Pricebreaker’ option. 

Once you turn on this option, you can get up to 50% off top hotels, but you won’t know which one until after the booking is complete. 

It’s a bit of Russian Roulette, but if you’re flexible, you can get some great savings from it.

Hotwire is on this list of travel deals because of its exclusive deals for hotels that it gives to its customers. 

The way this system works is that hotels often have unsold rooms so they sell them at a super-discounted price. 

The only downside to this is that you don’t get to see the hotel name until after booking. However, you’re still able to see reviews, amenities, and the area where the hotel is.

Agoda is another great tool to use when looking for hotel deals. You can use it all over the world, but it’s especially great for properties located in Asia. 

Agoda also has a nice feature for recommending other hotel ideas if your travel dates are flexible. This is how to find the best deals.

Super (Formerly SnapTravel)

Super (what used to be SnapTravel) is more than a travel company these days. Not only can you save up to 50% on hotels, but they also have a shopping section.

Their shopping section is where you’ll find different deals on items you can purchase. These items include everything from apparel to furniture, health and beauty products, electronics, and beyond.

Super now also has its own credit card, which gives you up to 10% cash back when booking things on the website.

Best Websites for Tour and Travel Agency Deals

GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is a great tour operator to use for finding guides with lots of reviews. It’s very popular in places like the United States and Europe. 

With thousands of reviews on popular activities, great photos, and an easy-to-use interface, GetYourGuide is one of the best tour booking sites. 

If you use the app or sign up with your email, you can enjoy up to 10% off on bookings. 

Although I’ve found the quality of their tours to be hit or miss sometimes (which is why the reviews are important to look at!), they offer a lot of dirt-cheap tours. 

I usually find their tours to be cheaper and to attract a younger clientele than their main competitor, Viator. 

Also, for Viator tours, I’m usually always with other Americans, whereas for GetYourGuide it’s usually a mix of Americans, Europeans, and Australians.

GetYourGuide is one of the best vacation booking sites for solo travelers to book tours on, since it helps you get out and easily meet people while doing a fun activity.

Costco Travel

Costco Travel is owned by one of my favorite stores for discounts and deals, Cosco Wholesale. 

Costco Travel finds some of the best travel deals around and only gives them to their members. 

When purchasing through Costco Travel, you know that the quality will be as top-notch as their stores because everything is hand-picked by their skilled travel buyers.

Costco members also receive an annual 2% reward on all Costco Travel purchases.

Viator is an extremely popular tour company owned by Tripadvisor. This means you know you’re getting a good product with many reviews to back it up. 

On their website, you can search for a place or activity to help find what you’re looking for, or you can scroll down to see their most popular tours. 

When you download the app, you can also get exclusive promo codes and deals. 

Viator has a wide range of cheap to more expensive tours and usually attracts an older, mostly American clientele. 

The quality of most of their tours is top-notch, and their depth of tour options for most destinations is unbeatable.

My Other Favorite Travel Deal Websites

Expedia is one of the largest travel companies in the world and one of the best vacation deal websites. 

The Expedia group owns the companies of Orbitz, Hotels.com, Hotwire, Travelocity, Trivago, VRBO, and more. 

Because of this, Expedia is an all-in-one travel agent that allows you to book discounted travel packages. 

On the website, you’re able to purchase many things related to travel, like cruises, flights, hotels, resorts, tours, and even car rentals. 

The search engine for rental car bookings is comparable to travel websites like Kayak. 

These bundles can save you a lot of money as well as being part of their rewards program.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is one of the best-known and overall best websites for travel. 

There’s a reason store owners want that green logo on their front window. It means something. 

With thousands of reviews on activities and restaurants, you can simply book whole vacation packages here or find a cruise line.

No travel deal or vacation package is a good deal if the experience is bad. 

What makes Tripadvisor a great travel deal site is the millions of reviews on all things travel. You’ll know if an experience is likely to be worth the money when you’re using this site.

Travelocity

Travelocity is comparable to other sites like Expedia, but it won’t have as many cheap vacation packages as those other sites. 

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find good deals. It’s still one of the best vacation booking sites on the market these days. 

In fact, you can sometimes find better deals to save money than sites like Expedia because Travelocity isn’t connected with other large travel agencies and their vacation package deals. 

Plus, if you use their app, you can earn up to 15% off on certain vacation packages.

Daily Drop is one of the fastest-growing newsletters in the travel space. This daily newsletter is all about travel tips and hacks to find the best travel deals around the world. 

These deals range from hotels to flights to cruises and use various tactics, such as credit card points and hotel loyalty programs. 

This isn’t the place to find easy and quick last-minute deals; rather, it’s more where you can learn how to become a top-notch travel hacker to always save on future travel.

Homestay is a great way to meet locals and stay in their homes. This will still cost money, but a lot of times, it can be cheaper than staying in a hotel. 

Depending on the host, they might even make meals for you as well.

Workaway is one of the largest volunteer sites for travelers on the web. 

On the site, you can apply for different jobs, such as working on a farm, greeting guests at hostels, or bartending. In return, the host will let you stay at their place for free. 

They sometimes also include other amenities such as free tours and meals.

Trusted Housesitters

Trusted Housesitters is one of my favorite travel sites on the internet. If you’re a slow traveler or just want to take a week off, this is a great tool. 

Most homeowners on this site want you to watch their pets while on vacation. In return, you can stay at their house for free!

You can filter it to have certain pets, no pets, and even a free car to use! Trusted Housesitters is the best website I’ve found to help you travel for as long as possible for cheap.

Discover Cars

Discover Cars is one of the best websites for car rentals on the web today. 

This site looks at over 500+ rental car companies from around the world to help give you the best deal on rental cars. 

Simply type in your pick-up location and dates and they will show you all of the best options for a car rental to keep you saving money. 

If you’re looking for a rental car for your next trip, Discover Cars needs to be on your list.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a very cool concept in which people from all around the world lend out their bed or couch to a stranger for free. 

This is a fantastic way to meet the locals and for those hosting, it’s a great way to meet foreigners. 

Couchsurfing has changed a lot over the years. It used to be 100% free but now costs around $15/year. 

This is still an extremely great deal considering how much money you can save on accommodation.

Rome2Rio 

Rome2Rio is one of the best travel sites you can add to your arsenal. Choose any two locations, and it will show you all the different options for how to get from point A to B. 

I used it a ton in South America for travel tips on how to find the cheapest ways to get around. 

For instance, when looking for the best routes from Quito to Baños in Ecuador, I clicked the bus option and instantly found the cheapest company to book a ticket from.

Tip : It’s often cheaper to book with the company directly than going through a third party.

Travel Zoo is another large search engine that helps you find the best deals from across the world.

A useful feature of this site is its “Last-Minute Deals” section. Here you can find the best travel deals, cruises, hotels, flights, and more!

Priceline is another one of the best sites to find travel deals this year. 

It was founded in 1997 and still has the same goal now as it did back then: to help you save money when trip planning. 

On the site, you’re able to search for hotels/flights and then bundle these together with other things like a rental car to save even more money. 

Priceline also has a VIP membership program that can save you up to 50% on hotels, 20% on car rentals, and a 10% coupon for express deals after every purchase. 

Another feature that many people might not be aware of is Priceline’s express deals. You can save up to 70% on hotels but you won’t know which one until after booking.

Orbitz hit the scene in 2001 to compete against the fast-growing companies of Expedia and Travelocity, and it’s one of the best travel package sites.

On the Orbitz site, you can search for any type of travel package you’re interested in as well as look at the day’s top deals. If you’re a member, then the prices get even better. 

As a member, you can get instant hotel savings of up to 10% once you sign up. 

They also have something called Orbucks, where you can get reimbursed up to $50 a day on travel expenses, making your vacation package even more affordable.

Cruisewatch

Cruisewatch is a website that you should definitely bookmark if you love going on cruises. 

This is one of the best websites to use to find great deals on cruises. 

You can sign up for Cruisewatch and then let them do all the work for you by sending you any price drops you might be interested in. 

Plus, if you book a cruise by destination, you can save up to 71%. 

Their search engine also allows you to find that perfect cruise, or it can find you many options to choose from if you don’t care about the dates or cruise line. 

Keep an eye on prices, as their price prediction has an 80% accuracy rate.

Bonus Travel Deal Sites

• Travel Pirates : This is a team of travel deal hunters that give you insane prices for flights, hotels, tours, and all-inclusive vacation packages. It helps if you’re flexible with your travel dates.
• Holidu : If you’re looking for vacation rental homes, this is one of the best websites on the market with up to 55% in savings.
• Airfare Watchdog : This is a great website for getting notifications for cheap airfare and its feature “the weekender” helps those looking for a quick getaway.
• Dayuse Hotels : If you’re a digital nomad looking to use a hotel room just for the day to get some work done, this is a great site to find cheaper options. It’s also ideal for anyone who wants a place to crash for the day after a long haul flight.
• Hotels By Day : This is another hourly hotel website that can help save you money, up to 70% off. 
• The Flight Deal : This is another tool to add to your list of travel websites. It’s essentially a blog that highlights hot deals on airfare, travel credit cards, and more. Check back every day for the latest in best travel deals right now.

FAQs About Travel Deal Sites

What is the best website to find vacation deals?

The overall best vacation websites to find travel package deals would be Kayak or Expedia . 

There are other sites that sometimes have better fares for airline tickets and hotels or have a better rewards program, but Kayak and Expedia do everything all in one place. 

These two best vacation deal sites are great for trip planning because you can do a price comparison before you book vacation packages.

Where is the best place to find last-minute deals?

The best place to find last-minute travel deals would have to be Hotwire . 

This is because their hotel deals are almost always going to be the best price you can find. 

Some people might not like waiting until the last minute, but it’s sometimes necessary to find the lowest prices.

What is the most used travel deal website?

The most used travel deal website is Booking.com . 

It currently ranks 1st, right above TripAdvisor. This is due to the fact that Booking.com normally has the most accommodation options out of any website.

How do I book the best travel deals?

When planning a trip, many people like booking their flight (especially international flights) for a specific date. The same goes for hotels. 

However, if you want the best travel deals, then you need to be flexible . 

Being flexible on hotel dates and flights is huge. Prices will rise and fall depending on when and where you go. 

Traveling in the low or even shoulder season is generally cheaper than going in the high season. And the experience can sometimes be even better with fewer crowds!

Another tip for getting the best travel deals is something called The Greek Island Trick . 

This is where you purchase the cheapest possible ticket to the continent of the country you’re going to. 

Once there, you can then find another cheap mode of transportation to your final location. 

This works especially well in Europe or Asia, where you can find ultra-cheap regional flights, buses, and trains. 

It doesn’t work quite so well in the US with how expensive our flights, trains, and overall transportation is here.  

This mode of travel usually takes more time, but the cost savings will be worth it for some.

Is it cheaper to book vacations through a travel agent?

In this day in age, you usually don’t get cheaper vacations when booking through a travel agent. 

It can be far more convenient to travel this way, but you’re paying extra money to have someone do the work for you.

Are travel deals worth it? Is it actually cheaper to book through these travel deal sites?

Travel deals are totally worth it if you’re looking to make your money last as long as possible and are capable of being a flexible traveler. 

The top websites we’ve mentioned above can save you money, and lots of it.  

The pros of good travel deal sites are simple. They can find you the best vacation packages for cheap and most likely will do the majority of the work for you.  

The cons of travel deal sites stem from them being 3rd party retailers. You may lose out on perks like free cancellation and free breakfast.

This means if something goes wrong with your booking, there’s a possibility you’ll have trouble getting it sorted out or your money back.

This is the subject of many of the negative reviews for these types of sites, so it’s important to always read the fine print and have good travel insurance.

How far ahead should you book a flight? What’s the Goldilocks window?

The Goldilocks window varies depending on whether you’re booking for peak or off-peak season. For domestic flights in peak season, you should book between three and seven months in advance. Off-peak, that range goes down to between one and three months. 

If you’re booking international flights in peak season, this timeframe should be increased to between four and ten months in advance. The best time for off-peak international travel booking is between two and eight months. 

The Goldilocks window refers to the timeframe above. If you buy flights too far in advance or wait until the last minute, then you run the risk of missing out on a cheap flight.

Do flight prices go down on Tuesdays?

In the early days of the internet, airlines would release new flights on Tuesday nights. 

They did this manually because the technology wasn’t as good as it is today. This is where the rumor started about Tuesdays being the best day to purchase plane tickets. 

Now, these same flight routes are updated constantly every day based on algorithms. 

My suggestion would be to frequently look at Google Flights in incognito mode, so you know you’re getting the best price.

Why are some websites cheaper for flights?

Some of the best sites are also partner sites with airlines. Other times these websites can buy up flights when they’re cheaper than they currently are to offer users a better deal. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Phillip Anderson

Phillip Anderson is a freelance travel writer, personal trainer, and adventure enthusiast. With years of travel experience under his belt, Phillip is an expert in finding the best deals through travel apps and websites. He knows how to find cheap domestic and international flights, like a flight to Peru for as low as $350.

When looking for cheap accommodations, Phillip combines his knowledge of websites like Airbnb, Booking.com & Hostelworld with more unique sites like TrustedHousesitters, for even more savings. Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or local experiences, he teaches travelers to make informed decisions, ensuring their adventures are both memorable and economical.

Looking for more travel tips and recommendations? Check out these related articles below!

Closest Airports to Napa Valley

Closest Airports to Lake Tahoe

Closest Airports to Yosemite National Park

Best Romantic Getaways in California

Best Weekend Trips from San Francisco

Best Hotels Along the Pacific Coast Highway

Best Joshua Tree Hotels

Best Airbnb Alternatives

Pin this image for future reference

Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Atlas Heart is a California travel website dedicated to showing you the best of the Golden State from a local perspective.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

©2024 The Atlas Heart

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

How To Choose The

Best Daypack For Travel

The minimalist's guide to selecting the best travel daypack for one bag carry-on travel and beyond.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Considerations
• 03. Traditional
• 04. Packable
• 05. Expandable
• 06. Alternate
• 07. Packing It All Up

Think you know all there is to know about daypacks? Think again.

Find your adventure essentials at Public Lands. Check it out →

Choosing the best Daypack for Travel and Beyond

The humble daypack: simple in form, but oh so valuable in function. Daypacks are the bread and butter of the backpack world, allowing us to enjoy all of what life has to offer while keeping the essentials handy.

Unlike travel backpacks —which are at home in airports, buses, and hotels—daypacks are found in nearly every facet of life and travel. From daily commutes to grocery store trips, coffee shops, and dog walks—daypacks are an essential part of most people’s lives. (Even if they might not realize it!)

In a travel sense, daypacks are ubiquitous with adventure and intrigue. From waterfall hikes in Thailand to exploring Portuguese side streets or relaxing with a few beverages on an Australian beach—daypacks are ready to hold all of your essentials as you live life to the fullest.

So, that begs the question… How do you choose the right one?

(Spoiler alert: You read this guide!)

Choosing the best daypack is a tricky—and loaded—question that doesn’t have one definitive answer. Much like travel backpacks, there are many different options that all get the job done. But in the end, we’re fairly confident there is no “best” daypack for everyone. It all depends on your personal preference and what you’re planning on doing with it.

If you want to skip ahead and just see some options already, check out the video below.

Here’s what you can expect

In this guide, we’re going to help you figure out how to choose the best daypack for your situation. We’re going to dive into all the different “categories” of daypacks and explain what you can expect with each as well as the pros, cons, and recommended use-cases.

We’re also going to provide some specific recommendations for each category, in addition to going over what you’ll want to look for and avoid in each case.

Finally, we’ll be going over some more general “pro tips” like how to efficiently pack a daypack, how to travel with a daypack and other luggage, and how to travel like a pro in a more general sense. (Although, we like to think that all of our content covers that last point.)

Sign up to get our 5 Minimalist Travel Hacks Guide. Plus, a weekly digest of our newest content in the newsletter.

Forget the “best” daypack. What kind of pack do YOU want?

Let’s get a few things straight before we dive into finding the best daypack for your situation. There are a few key considerations you should be thinking about when choosing a daypack, which we’ve outlined below. As we progress through this guide, we will continue to come back to these questions. If you can get clear on your answers here, we are confident you will be able to find the perfect daypack for your needs.

So, the first question you should be asking yourself is…

This is the most logical place to start in your quest for the perfect daypack. Choosing what daypack to buy will be most influenced by what you’re going to use it for! Here are some common examples of daypack-related activities that will require different types of packs:

• Traveling the world with a carry-on travel backpack and a personal item.
• Going on a day hike.
• Traveling with roller luggage.
• Bringing your laptop and tech gear to work every day (although we have a separate laptop bag guide for this).
• Holding groceries on your way home from work.
• Having a stylish accessory for travel or days out with friends.

The type of activities you plan on doing with your daypack will have a massive effect on what kind of bag is best for you. Obviously, there are many additional scenarios you may find yourself in outside of the ones on this short list, but we hope that by the end of this guide you’ll have the knowledge to make an educated decision on your own.

We should also mention that we are strong advocates for having multiple daypacks for different scenarios. As a bunch of self-proclaimed minimalists, we don’t tend to endorse consumption for consumption’s sake, but having two to three specialized daypacks can be enough to cover just about any scenario you find yourself in. You could get by with one versatile pack for every occasion, but you’re going to have to make some compromises. (But we don’t particularly like compromises.)

The next question you should be asking yourself is…

While your answer to the first question may heavily impact the answer to this question, we still think it’s worth discussing on its own. Think of this in more general terms—are you the type of person who likes to have everything they could ever need for a day out? Do you love being prepared for any kind of weather that may hit? Are you “that person” who is prepared to spend a night in the woods every time you go for a hike?

Walking With The Topo Designs Daypack

Additionally, consider how many people you tend to be around. If you’re more of a solo adventurer or if you need a bag for commuting by yourself, you can probably get by with a smaller daypack. But if you tend to travel with large groups of people or you’d consider yourself a “social butterfly,” you may want to consider going for a larger daypack. You’ll thank us when you become the hero of the group after carrying everyone’s water bottles and jackets. Hell, you may even get a free beer or two out of it if you play your cards right.

The gist here is that if you think you’ll be carrying a decent amount of stuff while you’re out and about, you’ll want to opt for a daypack that has a larger capacity and an ample harness system to handle that extra weight.

If you’re a bonafide minimalist or you hate the idea of carrying a pack over five pounds, you’ll want to opt for a smaller and lighter bag. In this case, you can also get away with a more minimalistic harness system. We’ll get into all that (and more) later.

Yes, yes—there are certainly more things you’ll need to consider when choosing a daypack. Here’s a quick run-down…

Budget: Obviously, you’ll want to consider how much you’re willing to spend. In a general sense, as you spend more, you can expect to see higher-quality materials, better craftsmanship, more accessories, and better styling.

Body Type: Your height and torso length will dictate what type of bags fit you best—and the fit is crucial. Some daypacks come in men’s (larger) and women’s (smaller) versions. Regardless of gender, you’ll want to make sure the pack fits your body type. Luckily, this doesn’t tend to be as much of a problem with daypacks as it is with larger travel backpacks.

Durability: This can change depending on personal preference or the type of activity you’re doing. Daily commuting is going to be tougher on your pack than quick trips to your neighborhood coffee shop. You’ll want to consider how often you plan on using this pack, and how long you’d like to have it.

Weight: If you’re concerned with the overall weight of your pack, certain types of daypacks will be drastically lighter than others. Drastically. Lighter.

Extras: Between hip belts, compression straps, water bottle pockets, laptop compartments, and a slew of other add-ons…there’s a lot to consider here. If there are certain backpack features that you feel like you can’t live without, it might restrict you to certain types of daypacks.

The daypack we’ve all come to know and love.

What is a traditional daypack?

The traditional daypack is just what you’d assume—a daypack that functions well for daily use. This is the O.G. daypack. Remember that JanSport pack you and everyone else brought to school as a kid? Well, that would fall into this category. Although we’re happy to say there are plenty of alternatives nowadays, and of varying qualities.

These types of daypacks function well and offer a ton of variety—this is actually the category where you’re going to see the most variety by far. We’re pretty confident even the pickiest gear nut could find something that fits the bill here. With a wide array of materials, color schemes, and styles—there’s something for everyone.

The Aer Pro Pack 24L is a prime example of efficient allocation of space. Whereas a lot of daypacks struggle with gear settling at the bottom of the main compartment (leaving the top unoccupied), the Pro Pack lets its other compartments fill that void. You can either use that otherwise wasted space by packing its valet pocket and admin panel or stacking as much gear as its roomy main compartment can handle—the choice is yours.

Traditional daypacks can come in a wide variety of sizes but, in general, most packs will have a capacity between 10 and 25 liters. Usually, you’ll find one large compartment with a few other smaller pockets around the bag. But there is a ton of variety in the traditional daypack department, so that’s not all you’re going to find—there are plenty of traditional daypacks out there that offer loads of organization. Really, you can find bags at any end of the spectrum—from zero organization to a boatload to a happy medium.

Now, we should clarify that while we love ourselves a good old-fashioned daypack, they do have their drawbacks. In fact, we’d argue that the drawbacks encountered on traditional daypacks are what eventually caused backpack manufacturers to start looking into other types of daypacks (like the ones you’ll find in the rest of this guide). More on that later. For now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

Materials & Durability

These types of daypacks have by far the most extensive variety of fabrics and materials. In fact, you can find a traditional daypack made with just about every backpack material out there. Here are some common examples of fabrics you might encounter on a pack like this:

• And everything else under the sun…

If we had to recommend a few of these fabrics, we’d probably point out Ballistic and Ripstop Nylon. These are the heavy hitter backpack materials that we love to see because they’re incredibly durable over the long term, they’re rip- and abrasion-resistant, and they’re mostly weather-resistant. The CORDURA® name also tends to be a good one to look for, as it signifies that the fabrics have been held to a certain level of quality. In terms of specific CORDURA® materials, you’ll mainly find polyester and nylon.

We generally recommend avoiding polyester, canvas, and leather for travel. Polyester is lightweight but it lacks long-term durability, and it can rip and scuff easily. Canvas and leather can certainly be high quality, but they tend to be very heavy. Don’t get us wrong, we’ve seen great packs that use these materials, but if you’re looking for the “best” materials out there, we’d recommend opting for some of the other options on this list.

Outside of fabrics, you’ll likely find a variety of other hardware and zippers on these types of packs. We always recommend YKK or SBS branded zippers as they have long track records of providing high-quality zippers that stand the test of time. Zipper sizes range on a scale from one (small) to ten (large), and most of the packs in this category will have at least a #5. We’d recommend looking for something a bit higher, though—some of our favorite daypacks have #10 YKK zippers, which are super beefy. In general, anything between #8 and #10 will be sturdy enough that you won’t need to worry about anything breaking anytime soon. (By the way, this should go without saying, but avoid plastic and unbranded zippers at all costs!)

Additionally, you’ll find various types of hardware—in the form of buckles, adjusters, and straps—on these packs. Duraflex , Woojin , and ITW are good brands to look out for. If you don’t see a brand name on the buckles of a daypack, you might want to look elsewhere. The reality is that plastic buckles are one of the easiest things to break on a bag—you can easily snap one in half just by setting the pack down abruptly—so sticking with a high-quality, trusted brand here is absolutely worth the extra couple bucks you’ll likely have to throw down.

Curious about what other materials you can expect on a pack like this? Here’s a quick overview:

• DWR coating: This is a coating that can be applied to many fabrics which increases water-resistance. It will by no means make the pack completely waterproof, but it will help quite a bit by providing some added weather-resistance.

Who (and what) is it good for?

The traditional daypack is useful for people who need a pack for daily use and aren’t concerned about traveling light. We’re of the firm belief that any commuter or city-goer who does a lot of walking or regularly takes public transit should have a traditional daypack they love. Actually, scratch that—everyone should have a traditional daypack they love.

This type of pack is excellent at holding tech gear, groceries, clothing, and everything in between. It’ll hold everything you need for those longer-than-expected days at work, short hikes, weekend trips, and whatever else you may encounter in your day-to-day life.

As far as travel goes, this pack does hold some value, but it’s not exactly “optimized” for travel. If you’re looking for a pack that you can cram into your one bag travel pack, this isn’t going to be your best bet. It might be doable, but there are way better options out there (which we’ll get into soon).

However, if you plan on using roller luggage or a duffel, a daypack like this can be a perfect addition to your travel kit. If roller luggage is your style, we’d recommend grabbing a pack that has a luggage pass-through, like the Aer Flight Pack 3 , so you can toss your pack onto your suitcase and stroll through the airport like a total boss.

This is a pack that we think virtually everyone should have in their closet. Even if you don’t plan on using it regularly, it’s great to have for quick trips and days out of the house. It can replace totes, duffels, and reusable grocery bags while offering a whole lot more functionality because, like all backpacks, you can have both hands free while wearing it!

Once you grab one that fits your style and has some quality materials, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

This backpack is good at most things, but it’s not quite as specialized as some of the other packs we’ll highlight in this guide. Essentially, Traditional Backpacks are versatile packs that will function well in 8 out of 10 situations. But for those other two instances, you’d be better off with something else.

Traditional backpacks offer impressive materials and harness systems that allow you to comfortably carry heavy or bulky gear for long periods of time. They also offer the most purchasing options, meaning you can opt for a pack that provides a boatload of additional functionality, a pack that is sleek and minimal, or something in between. The same goes for style and size. One crucial point is that you’ll see longer-lasting and more durable materials on these types of packs because weight and bulkiness aren’t as much of an issue.

These bags also tend to have the most “structure,” which means they’ll be good for holding more valuable or fragile gear and you can easily organize the contents inside. Because they have more structure and lots of accessories, you’ll also find that these types of daypacks often have multiple carry options—allowing you to carry the pack in “briefcase mode” or “duffel mode” or some other mode entirely. That provides some nice versatility that can be good for some use-cases or specific situations.

And finally, the wide variety of packs in this category means you can spend as much or as little as you’d like. There’s something for every budget, which isn’t entirely true for the other categories on this list.

If you’re looking for something extremely lightweight and minimal, this type of pack isn’t going to be your best bet. You can find light daypacks here, for sure, but a packable daypack may suit you better. Traditional daypacks also tend to be a bit on the bulkier side, so if you’re looking for a pack that you can toss into your larger travel pack, there are better options out there.

As we’ve mentioned, the traditional daypack is king when it comes to versatility—but, by definition, that means it’s not king when it comes to specialized use-cases. As you’ll see later in the guide, there are a variety of packs for specific niches that will go above and beyond what a traditional daypack is capable of.

The Verdict

If you’re looking to carry stuff efficiently or you want a versatile pack that will last a lifetime, this is what you need. In fact, even if you don’t think you need this type of pack you should still probably have one on hand. It’ll come in handy more often than you think.

But if you have other, more specific considerations, you might want to keep reading…

Recommendations

The Aer Flight Pack 3 is a reliable and functional mid-sized daypack from a trusted brand. It’s got a sleek, minimal look and it uses high-quality materials that have held up well during our testing. If you’re looking for the ultimate daypack, you’ll want to check this one out.

The Topo Designs Daypack is a stylish little backpack that isn’t really so little. At 20 liters, it’s a reliable daypack that can handle weekend trips or bulky items with ease. Although it might look simple, there’s a lot going on inside this heritage style pack—including some high-quality, durable materials.

We love Tom Bihn because they put a ton of care, effort, and detail into the decisions they make when creating packs. The Synapse 25 is no exception. With some excellent organization, customization options, and great materials—this bag is a winner and could be a great option for longer trips.

Are packable daypacks the future of the backpack world? We’re not sure, but we’re definitely into them.

Video Overview: 9 Packable Daypacks For Minimalist Travel & Why You May Need One In Your Carry-On Backpack

Feel free to watch this guide overview in video format. We’ll go more in-depth in the written content and keep this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video.

What is a packable daypack?

Packable daypacks are the latest, greatest, and most innovative item to hit the daypack market for some time. Over the past few years, we’ve seen packable daypacks explode in popularity, and for good reason. They’re ridiculously lightweight, super compressible, and they solve a problem that almost everyone has faced at some point in their lives.

YNOT Deploy Packable Daypack

If you’ve ever arrived in a new city with a big ole’ piece of luggage and thought, “If only I had a smaller bag I could use for the day,” then you are in luck. The packable daypack was built to solve that problem, and for that, we love it.

The way packable daypacks work is pretty straightforward (it’s also, like, in the name—but we’ll clarify). They’re usually built with extremely thin and lightweight materials, which allows you to compress the bag into a small ball, just like you might do with a plastic disposable shopping bag. But it’s not just thin materials we’re talking about here. Everything on a packable daypack is light—from the shoulder straps to the zippers to the buckles. It’s all purpose-built to compress, so you’ll rarely see thick shoulder straps, beefy zippers, or extra features on these bags.

Most bags compress into a pocket on the pack or a small compression pouch. Basically, you pack the bag into the pocket or pouch, zip it up, and you’ve just compressed a backpack down to the size of a soda can (or sometimes, even smaller).

From there, you can toss that can-sized pouch into your larger travel bag, your desk at work, your car, or just have some fun and play a game of catch with your friends! There are no rules when it comes to packable daypacks, people.

Packable daypacks can vary in size, but you can generally expect them to fall between 10 and 25 liters in capacity when expanded. When compressed, smaller-sized packs will take up less room, but the materials and design also play a significant factor. We’ve seen 24-liter daypacks that compress smaller than 15-liter packs. So it’s vital to do your research on each bag before you purchase and consider how important the expanded and compressed sizes are to you.

As far as compartments go, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a packable daypack with more than two or three pockets. The majority of these bags have one large compartment with a small quick-grab pocket—and that’s about it. As you’ll see, these types of bags are pretty barebones (because they have to be).

When it comes to packable daypacks, thin and light is the name of the game. Everything on a packable daypack is purpose-built to allow the pack to compress to less than a quarter of its initial size. But let’s be honest, compressing is the easy part. After all, you can compress a plastic grocery bag or a Ziploc bag pretty easily.

The hard part is creating a bag that can do all of that while still holding up for years to come. Using a backpack to carry heavy or bulky items can put a lot of stress on it, but even more importantly, compressing a bag can put an incredible amount of pressure on the seams and materials. So, how do you create a backpack that is strong enough to hold up to all of that while still being extremely thin and lightweight?

Well, thanks to #science and years of fabric innovation, we now have a handful of materials that are up to the challenge. Here are some of the most common materials you’ll find on a packable daypack—and keep in mind that these materials are similar to what you’d find on other backpacks, they’re just going to be much thinner versions of the same fabric.

• …and that’s about it!

As you can see, there’s a pretty select number of materials that you can use when making a packable daypack. And really, all of these materials are incredibly similar—they’re all thin, lightweight, and have an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio.

Now, with all this talk about super thin, super durable materials… we know what you’re thinking. “Okay, but how durable can these things ACTUALLY be?” Well, if you’re skeptical, you should be.

Here’s the deal. A packable daypack is likely never going to be as durable as a full-fledged, traditional daypack. With materials this thin, you’re always running the risk of creating small punctures, abrasions, rips, tears, and more. While 30D Ripstop Nylon is exceptionally durable given its weight, that’s just the thing—it’s so thin and light that it’s never going to be as durable as, say, 1000D CORDURA® Nylon.

What we’re trying to say here is that given the limitations of packable daypacks, they’re incredibly durable. Let’s not beat around the bush here—they’re certainly not the most durable packs money can buy. In fact, you’ll want to be careful with your packable daypack—even putting bulky items in can be cause for concern.

But as far as we’re concerned, as long as you put some thought into how you pack your bag and you treat it well, you’re going to be okay. And the pros of a packable daypack truly cannot be understated.

Packable daypacks are extremely small when not in use, but still quite functional when in use. As you can imagine, there are a lot of situations where this can be helpful!

We mainly use packable daypacks for travel. If you’re traveling with one large travel backpack, you can bring along a packable daypack to use once you arrive at your destination. The benefit here is that it takes up little to no space in your pack while you’re traveling, and then you don’t have to use your enormous travel backpack for a day out in a new city.

Some packable daypacks are even small enough where you can toss one in your jacket pocket and carry it around with you just on the off-chance you might need a backpack at some point during the day. Pretty awesome, right?

There are many uses for packable daypacks outside of travel, as well. You may want to keep a packable pack in your desk at work, in case you need to hit the grocery store on your way home. You could keep one in your car or a saddle bag on your bike. Or, for the ultra-minimalists and tiny apartment dwellers, you may want to just save space in your closet and use one of these as your only daypack!

Packable daypacks are great for anyone on the go. They allow you to be prepared to carry “stuff” (whatever that may be) at any moment, without having to lug around an empty backpack. They’re also great for minimalists, or anyone who’s looking to remove bulky items from their life.

Alright, this won’t take long (we promise).

Packable daypacks are thin, light, and allow you to be prepared for anything. …And that’s why they’re great! We really cannot understate how nice it is to have a backpack that compresses to the size of your fist. It’s truly awesome.

But, let’s be honest, there are some downsides…

Now that we’ve talked at length about why packable daypacks are amazing and everyone should have one, let’s get real for a minute. There are downsides to these bags—quite a few, in fact. And while none of them are necessarily dealbreakers, you should be aware of them.

A packable daypack is likely never going to have as much structure and rigidity as a traditional daypack or any of the other daypacks we’ll be mentioning in this guide. That is, unless some new, amazing fabric technology comes out. The reality is that because these bags are so thin and so lightweight, the material is not going to stand up straight or hold its shape like a regular backpack would.

As a result of this and some other factors, packable daypacks do not carry nearly as well as a traditional daypack. Because they have to be so thin and light, they generally have extremely minimal harness systems (although we’ve tested a few that excel in this department, they’re few and far in between). Usually, you’ll find extremely thin straps—which tend to get twisted as you’re using the bag—with minimal zippers and buckles. No matter how you slice it, packable daypacks aren’t great for carrying heavy loads over long distances.

As we mentioned earlier, durability is another thing to consider with packable daypacks. Super-thin ultralight materials are never going to be as durable as the thick, heavy stuff. You are far more likely to experience a puncture, tear, or rip with a packable daypack than with a traditional one. Although, if yours is made with ripstop nylon, those rips won’t get any bigger, which is nice. For this reason, they’re not the best for sustained, heavy use.

Packable daypacks serve a specific purpose, and they do it very well. They allow you to be prepared for anything—whether that’s in the travel context, at work, or on your commute. If you need something that will take up virtually no space when not in use while still being functional when in use, there’s nothing better. But all that comes with downsides. A packable daypack is not suited for heavy, daily use—and it’s not the most comfortable thing to wear, either.

As far as we’re concerned, those aren’t dealbreakers. In fact, if we could only choose two packs off this list, a packable daypack would surely be one of them. For one bag travel, they’re practically indispensable. And for everything else, they’re pretty damn convenient.

The Tortuga Setout Packable Daypack is a classic. It’s lightweight and compresses to the size of an aluminum can, but it’s still got a 19-liter capacity when expanded. It also pairs well with other gear in the Setout line.

This is the packable daypack that is the exception to the norm. Why? Because it looks and feels like a regular backpack! It’s got robust materials, a bunch of pockets, and some accessories that you just never see on packable daypacks. But it’s also heavy and bulky as a result.

Matador is known for making extremely packable gear, and the Freefly16 is just one of their packable daypacks. We like this one because it’s pretty versatile and offers a decent harness system without sacrificing space when compressed. That being said, we’ve had some durability issues during testing.

It’s a travel pack! No, it’s a daypack! No, it’s an expandable backpack! (And it’s the best of both worlds.)

What is an expandable backpack?

If you’ve been reading carefully, you may have noticed something different about this section. Here, we’re not going to be discussing a daypack, specifically, but an expandable backpack.

What’s the difference, you ask? And why is this thing that is supposedly not a daypack in a guide called The Daypack Guide?

Well, an expandable backpack is part daypack, part travel backpack. This is a bag that can function as either, and it does so by expanding or compressing accordingly. Does it compress as much as a packable daypack? No, not even close. And that is why it has its own category!

Expandable backpacks give you the best of both worlds (at least, in theory) by providing you with a fully-capable travel backpack that you can use for extended one bag travel. The idea is that you can use this bag for long journeys—like flights or train rides—and then remove the contents of the pack once you get to your destination.

Once you’ve removed a majority of the contents, you can compress the bag down to daypack-size and head out on the town. You won’t stick out nearly as much as you would with a massive travel backpack, although we’re not going to lie, it will certainly look a bit more cumbersome than a traditional or packable daypack.

These types of packs often have high liter-capacities, up to 35 or 45 liters when fully expanded and in “travel pack mode.” When compressed, the size can vary—but expect to lose between 10 and 15 liters of capacity. Some bags are built in a way that there are two different “modes” with different capacities and little to no wiggle room in between. These usually use some kind of compression zipper that will run around the length of the bag, allowing you to compress it by zipping up excess fabric.

Other bags may be built in a way where you can simply compress them down to whatever size you’d like. These usually use simple compression straps, meaning you can often compress the bag to be extremely thin, or compress it just a little bit from its fully-expanded size.

Expandable backpacks tend to have the same kinds of materials you’d find on a travel backpack because, well…they are travel backpacks! This means you’re going to encounter some pretty durable and high-quality fabrics.

Could you find similar materials on a traditional daypack? Absolutely. However, with expandable backpacks, you’re going to see higher-quality materials across the board, as opposed to traditional daypacks where you’ll find a ton of different materials of varying qualities.

The majority of expandable daypacks are going to be made with some kind of nylon. That might be Ballistic Nylon, Ripstop Nylon, CORDURA® Nylon, or some other version. These are all super durable fabrics that can put up with daily use and long term travel for years to come. And while you might notice that these are similar to the materials we mentioned in the Packable and Traditional Daypack sections, they’re generally going to be much, much thicker. A packable daypack might have 30D Ripstop Nylon, while an expandable daypack is more likely to have 1000D Ripstop Nylon.

You could still find a variety of materials here—anything from polyester to canvas, sailcloth, and more—but in general, we tend to encounter nylon on these bags. And quite frankly, given the wear and tear that is likely to occur with a bag like this, we’d recommend going for something strong like a Ballistic or Ripstop Nylon over pretty much anything else.

And just like the traditional daypacks we covered in the first section, you’ll find a variety of other materials on these bags. Here’s a quick run-down if you need a refresher:

• DWR coating

Expandable backpacks are great for minimalist travelers. They can fit everything needed for a year of perpetual one bag travel while still functioning well as a daypack when out and about in a new city. The general concept with expandable backpacks is very similar to packable daypacks, only in this case, instead of having a travel backpack and a daypack, you’ve got one that pulls double-duty.

One potential problem with this system is that you do need a place to store the extra contents of your bag when not in use. Presumably, you’d be able to toss most of your stuff into a dresser in your hotel or Airbnb, or into some kind of locker at a hostel. If you don’t have a place to store your stuff, that could be a bit of a problem—unless you’re cool with stashing the contents of your bag in an alley, or maybe under a bridge or something. (Sorry, we don’t have much experience with this.)

We should also mention that packing cubes can be a huge convenience here. If most of your stuff is packed into two or three packing cubes, you can simply pull them out, compress the pack, and you’re good to go. Otherwise, you’ll be dealing with a whole mess of clothes and other unorganized gear.

This type of backpack is fantastic for someone who is looking to travel minimally, or especially someone who’s on a budget. Most expandable backpacks are priced similarly to your average travel backpack, so you can save a good bit of money by buying just one expandable backpack instead of both a travel backpack and a daypack.

As we mentioned in the durability section, these bags are generally going to hold up longer and be capable of handling more wear and tear than your average daypack. After all, they have to function as a travel backpack and a daypack—meaning they’re going to see a whole lot of use. They also need to be able to hold up to the pressures of compression.

And because they need to function as a travel backpack, they also have more robust harness systems, meaning you’ll be able to carry heavier loads for long periods of time while remaining comfortable. Ultimately, the best thing about expandable backpacks is their versatility. And for that, we love them.

Throughout this section, we’ve been explaining how expandable backpacks can function as both a travel backpack and a daypack. But if you’re anything like us, you might be wondering how well they perform in both of those roles…

We’re not going to sugarcoat this—expandable backpacks rarely function as well in “daypack mode” as a bonafide daypack will. No matter how much you compress an expandable backpack, it’s still going to have the length and width of a travel backpack, meaning it’s going to look and feel pretty large on your back. While some packs handle this problem well, most expandable daypacks are going to look a little awkward when you’re wearing them. Let’s just say no one’s going to be fooled by your “daypack.”

Expandable backpacks are also heavy, but that’s to be expected when you’ve got a travel backpack and daypack in one package.

If you’re on a budget or you hate the idea of having two backpacks, an expandable backpack is an obvious choice. It will function well as a travel backpack and pretty well as a daypack once you get to your destination. As long as you can find a place to drop off your stuff, you’ll be all set for perpetual travel with one pack.

The Tortuga Setout Divide is built specifically to function as an expandable backpack. It has two capacities—34 and 26 liters—depending on which mode you’re in, and it compresses with one large compression zipper that runs the length of the pack.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 is one of our favorite travel backpacks, and it also happens to work very well as a daypack. With a robust set of compression straps and a design that collapses well onto itself, it’s one of the few travel packs you can rock as a daypack without looking totally ridiculous.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is another travel backpack with a compression system that does a great job of converting the pack from travel mode to daypack mode. In fact, this is one of the more innovative compression systems we’ve seen—it uses a large compression zipper and several compression buttons instead of straps.

There are a lot of daypacks out there. Some would say, too many. We think that’s ridiculous.

We’ve gone over the three main categories of daypacks. But there has to be more, right?

Yes! There are many other types of daypacks. In this section, we’re going to briefly run through some of the other daypacks you might encounter in the wild. These are packs that have niche use-cases or are slight variations of some of the other packs we’ve mentioned in this guide.

So, without further ado, let’s check them out.

Waterproof Daypacks

Waterproof daypacks are pretty self-explanatory. Unlike other backpacks that may be “water-resistant” or “weather-resistant,” these packs are truly impervious to water.

Waterproof daypacks usually use some type of nylon that has been coated with DWR, Hypalon, or some other waterproof coating. But what really makes these bags stand out is their waterproof zippers and closure systems. Truly waterproof zippers are much different than weather-resistant zippers, and they’re pretty hard to come by.

Most bags will opt for a rolltop closure system for the main compartment, and a few waterproof zippers for other areas of the pack (if there are other areas). If done right, a rolltop closure system will be completely airtight. All you need to do is keep folding it onto itself, and then buckle it up.

Submerging The Matador Freerain24 In Water

If you need a waterproof daypack for whatever reason, we’d recommend testing it out before you truly put it to use. Before you bring it into the wild, throw some paper towels or toilet paper into it, close it up, and submerge it in a bathtub for a few minutes. If the paper towels are still dry afterward, you know it’s totally waterproof.

Waterproof daypacks usually have just one compartment, although they may have a few smaller pockets with waterproof zippers. And we’re pretty sure we don’t need to tell you what these bags are good for, or who would benefit from them…right? It kind of goes without saying.

Matador is known for making a bunch of packable gear, and this bag pulls double-duty as a packable daypack that’s also waterproof. Well, it’s fully waterproof minus the front zippered pocket. And yes, we’ve tested this ourselves.

Mini Daypacks

There’s no getting around it—these little packs are super cute. We tend to think of mini daypacks as a more stylish and slightly less-functional alternative to packable daypacks.

These packs tend to just be miniaturized (cuter) versions of traditional daypacks. You’ll find similar materials, although everything’s going to be slightly more minimal. You can expect a minimal harness system and only a few pockets in addition to the main compartment (or maybe none at all).

The great thing about a mini daypack is that it looks great and can still be squished down to fit inside a larger travel backpack. But you’re sacrificing quite a lot with a bag like this. It’s still going to take up a lot of space inside your larger bag, it isn’t going to provide the best carry, and it won’t be able to hold many things.

That being said, if you want a stylish little bag and you don’t intend on carrying more than a few items on your days out, a mini daypack just might be the ticket.

This mini daypack is quickly becoming a classic. The Fjallraven Kanken Mini is stylish, cute, and comes in about a million different colors. We love the way it looks, and it functions well given its size. We’d recommend grabbing a pair of the shoulder strap pads for some extra comfort.

Lay-Flat Daypacks

Lay-flat daypacks are pretty much just traditional daypacks that you can lay flat at the base of your travel backpack or roller luggage.

We don’t usually see these types of packs explicitly marketed as “lay-flat daypacks”—they’re typically just traditional daypacks that happen to work well for this use-case. To lay flat, this type of pack needs to be made with somewhat “flimsy” or thinner materials. That also means that it’s not going to have the rigidity and structure of your average daypack.

These types of packs can be useful for people who don’t like the idea of a packable daypack or don’t like how they look/feel. The main issue is that it will still take up a significant amount of space in your pack, even if it lays flat really well.

If you are looking for a pack like this, we’d recommend reading some reviews (like ours) before you buy. It can be pretty hard to tell how well a pack lays flat without testing it yourself.

The Aer Go Pack is labeled as a “packable” daypack, but it’s really more of a lay-flat daypack. This pack is made with thin materials and has very little structure when empty, so it will take up minimal space when laid flat in a suitcase or backpack. You also have the option to roll it up, if you are so inclined.

A lay-flat daypack that will add a pop of color to your adventures, the Cotopaxi Batac 16L is a durable, ultra-lightweight pack you’ll want to show off. It has minimal features—but has a comfortable enough carry to work well for long days out and about.

Budget Daypacks

Budget daypacks are mostly just traditional daypacks that have been made with cheaper, lower-quality materials like polyester, canvas, or even cotton. You can expect a barebones daypack with a couple of pockets, and that’s about it. But that’s why it’s so cheap!

These packs are not going to last a lifetime, they may not look as fabulous as you’d like, and they’re not going to carry very well. But they’re cheap! If you’re on a budget and need to carry stuff while still using two arms—boom! These packs will do that. But be warned—you might encounter some issues in the middle (or beginning) of your trip.

Uniqlo is known for making low-priced clothing and accessories that are still stylish and fairly durable given the price. This 3-Way Bag, which can be carried in backpack, messenger, and briefcase mode, is no exception.

While not ideal for bulkier items, the Lefrik Handy Backpack is a lightweight and affordable everyday bag that will be right at home in the city. Plus this bag is made of 100% recycled polyester from discarded PET bottles—so environmentalists rejoice!

Camera Daypacks

Camera daypacks are built specifically for carrying cameras and all the accessories that come with them. From lenses to SD cards to tripods, photographers need to lug around a lot of stuff to their shoots.

A camera daypack is going to be a bit more minimal than a full-fledged camera bag, as the goal is to hold just enough stuff for a couple hours of shooting. You can expect a bag with plenty of organization, some internal padding, and enough room to hold a camera, one or two lenses, and all the batteries, cords, and memory cards you need for a day out.

In our experience, camera daypacks aren’t entirely necessary unless you’re dead-set on having a daypack specifically for shooting. We tend to use camera inserts—like the F-Stop Small Shallow ICU —to convert a traditional daypack into a “camera daypack,” or add a camera compartment to our larger travel pack.

Made of durable materials and full of features, The Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L (V2) is a solid choice for all photographers and videographers. But its classic aesthetic and nice internal layout will also make digital nomads and one bag travelers pretty happy too.

Ideal for gearheads, The Chrome Niko F-Stop Camera Backpack has enough space and organizational features to fit a few camera bodies, a handful of lenses, and some additional accessories. Chrome is known for their quality craftsmanship—and their camera pack is no exception.

Secure Daypacks

Secure daypacks might look like a traditional daypack, but they’ve got a whole lot going on under the hood. These packs are built to repel any potential thief and keep all of your belongings safe and sound.

You can expect to see some pretty cool tech on these packs—from tear-proof fabrics to lockable zippers to metal cables that you can use to lock the bag to fixed objects. These bags are great for travel, where security is always an issue. Having an ultra-secure pack means you can doze off on that long train ride or walk through crowded markets without having to worry about pickpockets.

These daypacks will usually be on the heavier side, thanks to their additional security measures, and that’s fine with us. Knowing your stuff is safe is pretty damn valuable, and we’ll take that over a few saved ounces any day of the week.

The Loctote Flak Sack II is an extremely tough bag that’s slash-proof, RFID blocking, and lockable—both to itself and a fixed object (so you can leave it behind without worrying about your valuables). It is on the heavier side—but for a bag built for security, it really should be.

We’ve done our bit. Now it’s your turn! Let’s make this daypack thing happen.

Hooray, you’ve made it to the end of our guide! Congratulations, you are now a daypack expert. Hopefully, at this point, you have a good idea of what to look for in a daypack, and you’ve got enough knowledge to find the right daypack for you and your unique situation.

Now that you’ve got the daypack figured out, it’s time to put it to use. We’re not going to do an exhaustive guide on how to use a daypack (as much as we’d like to) because we’re pretty sure it’s self-explanatory. However, there are a few quick tips that we’d like to highlight before we close this thing out.

Next time you get ready for a day out in a new city, think of these tips when loading up your daypack:

• Use packing cubes for larger items: We recommend using packing cubes in most travel backpacks, and the same principles apply to daypacks. A few small packing cubes or pouches let you organize all the contents of your bag and give you easy access to whatever you need. The best thing about using packing cubes with a daypack is that, if you plan right, you can grab a fully-loaded packing cube from your travel pack and toss it in your daypack. These are great for clothing and medium-sized pieces of gear.

• Use pouches for smaller items: When it comes to tech gear, toiletries, and other small items you’d like to keep organized—pouches are a lifesaver. Unlike packing cubes, which tend to be one large compartment, pouches tend to offer plenty of organization for smaller items like thumb drives, SD cards, and pens that you might not find on your daypack. We love using pouches in coffee shops and coworking spaces to easily pull out all our tech-related gear for the day.

• Keep your laptop safe: We always recommend using a padded laptop sleeve to keep your laptop safe in transit. Even if your bag has a laptop compartment—and even if it’s padded—it’s always worth throwing it in a padded sleeve for peace of mind.

Hopefully, these tips will take your packing to the next level. And if you have any other pro tips you’d like to share, feel free to drop us a line! We’d love to hear about them.

Concluding Thoughts

So, here we are. We’ve finished our long tour through the world of daypacks. We’ve learned some stuff, seen some interesting packs, and had a few laughs. We hope this guide has opened your eyes to what kind of daypacks are available, and why you might want to opt for one style over the other.

But we’d like to close this one out by reminding you that choosing the “best” daypack is not only impossible but not a big deal. At the end of the day, you should go with a bag that will not only suit your needs but that you LIKE! There’s no point in buying a bag that you don’t actually like, no matter how many features and durable materials it has.

So whether you opt for an ultralight packable daypack or a retro leather bag, just be sure to get out there and use it while you enjoy the world—whether that means making your commute just a bit less stressful or enjoying a day in a new city.

Author: Aidan DiPrima

Aidan is a writer, editor, gearhead, and New England native that currently calls Boston, MA home. When he’s not mountain biking with his Aussie Shepherd or traveling around the states, he’s making sentences as concise as possible—a challenge he doesn’t take lightly.

• All Wellness
• All Skin Care
• Moisturizers
• Mineral Sunscreens
• Sunscreens for Kids
• Sunscreens for Dark Skin
• SPF Lip Balms
• Under Eye Patches
• All Hair Care
• Purple Shampoos
• Thinning Hair
• Head Shavers
• Hair Dryers
• All Oral Care
• Electric Toothbrushes
• Toothpastes
• Mouthwashes
• Water Flossers
• Meal Kit Delivery
• Gluten-Free Meal Kit Delivery
• Disposable Face Masks
• Air Purifiers
• Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergents
• Natural Deodorants
• Period Underwear
• All Fitness
• Exercise Bikes
• Walking Shoes
• Fitness Trackers
• Reusable Water Bottles
• Blackout Curtains
• Sound Machines
• Home & Kitchen
• All Home & Kitchen
• Kitchen Appliances & Tools
• All Kitchen Appliances & Tools
• Coffee Makers
• Kitchen Gadgets
• Small Home Appliances
• All Small Home Appliances
• Air Conditioners
• Space Heaters
• Humidifiers
• Bedding & Bath
• All Bedding & Bath
• Bath Towels
• Silk Pillowcases
• Duvet Inserts
• Office Chairs
• Standing Desks
• Desk Organizers
• Seat Cushions
• Under Desk Ellipticals
• All Outdoor
• Raised Garden Boxes
• Garden Hoses
• Beach Towels
• Solar Pool Covers
• Grilling Accessories
• Electronics
• All Electronics
• Wifi Routers
• Gaming Consoles
• Streaming Devices
• Instant Cameras
• Handheld Gaming Consoles
• 3D Printers
• All Headphones
• Noise Canceling
• Wireless Earbuds
• Smart Gadgets
• All Smart Gadgets
• Smart Watches
• Smart Bulbs
• Garage Door Openers
• All Computers
• Gaming Laptops
• Laptops for College Students
• Computer Monitors
• Ergonomic Keyboards
• Dog Carriers
• Litter Boxes
• Scratching Posts
• Cat Carriers
• All Pet Care
• Nail Clippers
• Flea & Tick
• All Luggage
• Lightweight
• Weekender Bags
• Accessories
• All Accessories
• Luggage Tags
• Travel Pillows
• Tech Gadgets
• Packing & Organization
• All Packing & Organization
• Packing Cubes
• Toiletry Bags
• Gift Guides
• All Gift Guides
• Valentine's Day
• All Valentine's Day
• For Any Loved Ones
• Mother's Day
• All Mother's Day
• Last Minute Gifts
• Best Mother's Day Gifts
• For Moms Who Have Everything
• Best from Amazon
• All Graduation
• For College Grads
• For High School Grads
• For Teachers
• Father's Day
• All Father's Day
• Best Father's Day Gifts
• For Dads Who Love Fishing
• Holiday Season & Christmas
• All Holiday Season & Christmas
• Gifts Under $25
• Practical Gifts
• Other occasions & loved ones
• All Other occasions & loved ones
• For Grandparents
• For Bridal Shower
• For New Parents
• For Any Occasion
• Deals & Sales
• All Deals & Sales
• Most Popular This Month
• Sales This Week
• New & Notable
• What to Buy This Month
• CNBC Select
• All CNBC Select
• Credit Cards
• Small Business
• Personal Finance
• Credit Monitoring
• Help for Low Credit Scores
• Sign up for the Select Newsletter
• Check out Shop TODAY
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Terms Of Service
• NBC News Sitemap

Follow Select

Best travel deals during Prime Day on the brands you love

Amazon Prime Day 2022 is finally here, with sitewide savings for Prime members on popular categories ranging from skin care and pet products to small kitchen appliances and fitness equipment . And whether you’re planning to board a flight to a sunny island or go on a roadtrip in the coming months, Amazon is offering notable discounts on travel items from portable chargers to luggage during the sale.

SKIP AHEAD Prime Day travel sales on Amazon | Prime Day travel sales at other retailers

Prime Day’s history traces back to 2015 — and after seven years, it’s grown so big that other retailers like Target and Bed, Bath and Beyond and Best Buy are now hosting their own counter sales. To help you make the most of the fleeting shopping holiday, we compiled some of the best Prime Day travel deals and sales live on Amazon, plus highlighted other notable deals from counter sales at other retailers. And make sure to keep up with our live coverage of Prime Day — we will be highlighting lightning deals and sharing some of our favorite deals throughout the day.

The best Prime Day travel deals

Below, we’re sharing the best Prime Day travel deals based on our previous coverage and reporting. To ensure the quality of each deal, we’re running deals through price trackers like CamelCamelCamel and Honey — each product is at its lowest price in at least three months.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Charcoal, 2-Piece Set

• 4.7-star average rating from 291 reviews on Amazon

This set of two hardsided suitcases includes a 21-inch carry-on bag and a 24-inch bag. Both come with a built-in TSA luggage lock and have four spinner wheels, as well as a retractable pull handle. The suitcases are also designed with interior organizational dividers and pockets.

adidas Classic 3S Backpack

• 4.8-star average rating from 4,582 reviews on Amazon

You can use Adidas’ Classic 3S Backpack as a carry-on bag and bring it with you to the beach or on a hike while traveling. It has a front pocket to store smaller items and a large zippered main compartment, as well as an interior sleeve to store a computer or tablet. There’s also a zippered media pocket on the top of the backpack to store headphones.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

• 4.8-star average rating from 96,291 reviews on Amazon

According to Lifestraw, this personal water filter removes bacteria, parasites and microplastics from water, which may come in handy while hiking or camping, as well as during emergencies. The brand said the filter can be used to clean up to 1,000 gallons of drinking water.

Stasher Silicone Reusable Pocket Bags

• 4.7-star average rating from 28,029 reviews on Amazon

Select writer Zoe Malin previously recommended these reusable pocket-sized silicone Stasher Bags for storing items like hair ties and vitamins while traveling. They come in a pack of two and are designed with the brand’s Pinch-Loc seal to make sure items remain inside the bag. Like other Stasher Bag models — many of which are on sale during Prime Day — these bags are freezer-, microwave-, dishwasher-, stovetop- and oven-safe up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, the brand said.

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

• 4.7-star average rating from 44,482 reviews on Amazon

Before a long flight, car or train ride, you may want to invest in a new pair of headphones like these from Bose. The wireless over-ear headphones are built with Apple’s W1 chip and offer up to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge, Beats says. You can adjust their fit so they’re comfortable across your head, and they’re equipped with control buttons on the ear cups to answer calls, activate Siri and raise the volume of your music.

TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router

• 4.0-star average rating from 14,882 reviews on Amazon

Whether you need Wi-Fi connectivity outdoors or want to create a private wireless network at hotels while traveling, you can use this pocket-sized travel router . The brand said it provides a data transfer rate of up to 750 mbps and is built with a USB port to share files with other devices. The travel router can also act as a portable charger for phones, cameras and tablets.

hum by Colgate Smart Electric Toothbrush Kit

• Lowest price ever
• 4.6-star average rating from 6,265 reviews on Amazon

Colgate’s electric toothbrush comes with a travel case so you can pack it in your toiletry bag, and one charge lasts for 10 days, the brand says. The toothbrush connects to a companion app via Bluetooth to show you where you’re brushing and gives you tips on how to improve.You can choose from sensitive, normal or deep clean brushing modes.

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

• 4.7-star average rating from 5,166 reviews on Amazon

Instead of carrying heavy books with you on trips, download thousands of ebooks and audiobooks to the Kindle Paperwhite . It comes with 32 GB of storage and the device’s screen auto-adjusts depending on the light you’re in. To repower the Kindle, you can use a USB-C charger or a compatible Qi wireless charger. According to Amazon, one charge gives you up to 10 weeks of battery life.

Frida Baby 2-in-1 Portable Sound Machine + Nightlight

• 4.5-star average rating from 1,444 reviews on Amazon

While this portable sound machine is designed for babies, anyone can use it. You can choose from five sounds like waves, pink noise and more, as well as three night light glow levels. It comes with a USB charging cable and has an adjustable silicone strap you can attach to strollers, cribs, car seats and door handles (if you do decide to use it for a baby and not yourself).

Shopping Prime day deals are finally here

The best prime day travel sales on amazon.

Here are the best Prime Day travel sales on Amazon right now that we think you’ll want to know about.

• Up to $150 off Echo on-the-go devices
• Up to $150 off Sony headphones and earbuds
• Up to 33% off travel pillows
• Up to 20% off travel size toiletry containers

The best Prime Day travel sales at other retailers

In addition to Amazon, the following retailers are offering Prime Day travel sales we recommend.

• Macy’s : Up to 60% off luggage from brands like Travelpro, Delsey, London Fog and more
• Monos : 20% off sitewide and get 10% back in store credit through July 13 with code GETAWAY2022
• Best Buy : Deals on headphones, cameras, portable chargers and more during Black Friday in July through July 13
• Target : Deals on luggage, swimwear, toiletries and more during Target Deal Days through July 13
• Bed Bath and Beyond : Deals on personalized sports team luggae, kids luggage and suitcase organizers.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Zoe Malin is an associate updates editor for Select on NBC News.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 8 Best Travel Package Sites for Booking a Cheap Vacation

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Booking a flight, hotel, and rental car together doesn’t just save you time—it can often save you money, too. But before you make such a significant purchase, it’s important to find the best travel package sites for booking your vacation.

I tested more than a dozen vacation package sites to see which ones had the lowest prices and best user experience. I discovered that many of the best vacation package websites allow you to book any combination of flight, hotel, and rental car, while others are more limited (flight + hotel is often the default). Fortunately, some sites will let you add a car onto a hotel+flight package, even if a car isn’t listed on the initial booking page.

It’s also important to compare the price of a vacation booked as a bundle to that same trip booked a la carte as separate components. Booking a package isn’t always cheaper, and sometimes you’ll get  better flight options to choose from if you search for your airfare separately. In some searches, I discovered that the flight options included by default with my vacation package had ridiculously long layovers or undesirable departure times (4:30 a.m., anyone?).

The Best Car Rental Booking Sites

Keep a sharp eye out for resort fees; many of the best vacation booking sites don’t count them in their initial per-person price estimate because they’re collected separately by the hotel, but they can drive up the final cost of your trip. Similarly, optional airline baggage fees can also increase your total bill, especially if you book a flight in basic economy, and some vacation package sites don’t disclose these fees as clearly as others.

Finally, it’s important to know that many of the best sites for vacation packages are owned by the same parent company, so you’ll often find similar inventory and prices from one to the next. Knowing which sites are mostly interchangeable can save you some research time.

The Best Travel Package Sites

We put them to the test to compare prices, inclusions, and more. The following are the best websites to book vacations, listed in no particular order. Scroll down for more in-depth analysis of each one.

• Expedia’s sister sites: Travelocity , Orbitz , and CheapTickets

CheapCaribbean.com

Funjet vacations.

This well-known site is one of the best travel package sites for a reason. Expedia offers a full complement of bundle options (flight/hotel, flight/car, hotel/car, and flight/hotel/car) as well as trips to just about every corner of the globe. It’s reliable when it comes to pricing, too: Expedia offered the lowest price in two of my five tests, and was cheaper than average in all but one test booking.

That said, the amount the site said I was saving on a given package didn’t always match up to the actual price difference when I added up the cost of the trip’s individual elements. In one of my test cases, it was actually cheaper to book my flight, hotel, and car separately. So take those supposed savings with a grain of salt (or even better, price out the components separately on your own to be sure you’re getting the best deal).

Expedia has plenty of useful filters to help you find what you need. You can sort hotels by price, distance from a city’s downtown, guest rating, package discount, and property class, while flight options can be filtered by general departure and arrival times (for example, morning vs. evening), airline, whether carry-on bags are included, and more. You can also sort flight options by duration (longest or shortest), price (highest or lowest), departure time (earliest or latest), and arrival time (earliest or latest). There’s also a map view so you can check out the location of each hotel.

Best Feature: The breadth of choice and consistency of pricing make Expedia perhaps the best site for vacation packages. You may not always get the absolute lowest price here, but chances are you’ll pay a fair rate and have plenty of options to choose from.

Check out Expedia

How Far in Advance Should You Book a Vacation Home?

Expedia’s Sister Sites: Travelocity, Orbitz, and CheapTickets

Many travelers don’t realize that Travelocity , Orbitz , and CheapTickets are all owned by Expedia Group, and typically have very similar inventory and pricing to Expedia. Each of these sites has similar layouts and filter options, too. Like Expedia, these three sites offer every possible vacation package combination involving a flight, hotel, and/or rental car.

It was rare for any of these sites to beat out Expedia’s prices in my tests; in general, the rates were identical (especially on Travelocity, where I didn’t find any deviations from Expedia) or a little bit higher. However, Orbitz and CheapTickets did offer slightly cheaper packages on one flight/car itinerary.

Because the pricing is so similar, it’s probably not worth searching all three of these sites in addition to Expedia unless a difference of a few dollars will make or break your travel budget.

Best Feature: Travelocity, Orbitz, and CheapTickets offer a checkbox on their main booking page to specify “I only need accommodations for part of my trip”—a feature that allows user to select a subset of their trip dates and search for travel packages only within that period. This feature is also reflected on Expedia’s search page.

Note: Expedia Group also owns Hotwire , which I didn’t find quite as reliable as the other three in my tests. For one itinerary, a nonstop flight that the other sites offered was not available when booking a Hotwire package (though it was available when booking a separate flight on Hotwire), and the pricing on some searches was a little higher than on the other sites.

Check out Expedia’s sister sites below:

Like Expedia and its partners, Priceline also offers every possible combination of flight, hotel, and rental car. Its search results pages are easy to navigate, with plenty of filter and sort options, plus a map view for hotels. Priceline offers numerous hotel options in popular vacation destinations at every price point.

One quirk to prepare for: Priceline’s flight result page lists departure and return flights together as a pair rather than letting you choose each one separately. This cuts down on the number of screens you have to click through but could mean extra scrolling while you try to find the exact two flights you want. Not all flights that are available when booking airfare separately on Priceline seem to be accessible to those booking a package—so it’s worth checking both.

Priceline was in the middle of the pack as far as pricing was concerned. It won one of my tests but was the most expensive option in two others; overall, it offered cheaper-than-average prices 60 percent of the time. To help you save money, the site offers “Express Deals” for rental cars, an opaque option in which you don’t know which rental car brand you’ll get until after you’ve booked. If you’d rather choose which company you’re renting from, standard car rentals are also available.

Best feature: Once you’ve selected your flight and rental car preferences, the site will keep them the same as you click through alternate hotel possibilities—saving you the hassle of having to select them over and over again.

Check out Priceline

What Happens If You Don’t Turn Your Phone to Airplane Mode?

As its name suggests, CheapCaribbean.com has a more limited scope than other sites on this list, but it’s worth checking if you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean, where package trips such as honeymoons are particularly popular. The site turned up cheaper-than-average prices for both of my Caribbean tests.

CheapCaribbean.com is one of the best vacation websites for all-inclusive packages. Once you’ve entered your trip information, you can also filter your results by “adults only,” “children’s amenities,” and “luxury.” Each hotel-specific page includes a list of active promotions, on-site activities, and the property’s Tripadvisor Traveler Rating.

In some ways CheapCaribbean.com isn’t quite as sophisticated as other travel package sites. There’s no map available to compare locations of the listed hotel options. Also annoying: not being able to group Houston’s two airports into a single search, though you can select “all airports” for New York City and Washington, D.C. But the affordable deals are worth a few snags, as long as you’re only looking for a flight/hotel package—there’s no option to add a car or create any other package combinations, though you can add travel insurance and transfers, at least for the destinations I checked.

Best Feature: The “ Deals of Fortune ,” or bookings where you know the destination but not the exact resort until about a week before the trip. This is a fun feature for value-conscious travelers who aren’t set on a particular island or property.

Check out Cheapcaribbean.com

A popular meta-search site, Kayak saves travelers time by searching many of the best travel package sites with a single click. Unfortunately, you can’t specify which elements of your trip you’d like to bundle; it searches flight + hotel by default. You can add a car later on some of its partner sites, but if you’re looking for a flight/car package, you’ll have to go elsewhere.

Results list the cheapest available packages from sites such as Priceline (Kayak’s sister company), Expedia, and CheapCaribbean.com. There’s a map view available, and the results page shows both air- and hotel-related filters to make it easy to find nonstop flights, free breakfast, or a specific hotel.

I found that the prices listed on Kayak didn’t always match the price on the source site when I clicked over to find the deal—a fairly common problem with meta-search sites. But I also occasionally discovered that I got a different price after clicking from Kayak than I did when searching the same itinerary from the booking site’s home page. For example, a Las Vegas package was $819 per person on Priceline when I clicked over from Kayak, but just $783 when I booked the same package from the Priceline home page. Another test offered the opposite result, with the price being cheaper after clicking from Kayak than it was when booking directly on Priceline. The lesson: Test both options when using a meta-search site.

Best Feature: Being able to search some of the best vacation booking sites in a single place is a major time saver. Though Kayak doesn’t always find you the lowest possible price, it’s a good place to start your search and get an idea of what’s out there.

Check out Kayak

The Essential Caribbean Packing List

The Funjet home page gives you a single package option: flight/hotel. However, you can work around this by adding a rental car on at the end of a flight/hotel or individual flight booking. There are plenty of sort options for your results, including price, hotel name, rating, points of interest, and location.

One annoyance: Similarly to CheapCarribbean.com, there is no option to select “all airports” for certain cities like Houston or Chicago. And Funjet’s prices aren’t the most consistent, ranking as the cheapest in one test and the most expensive in another. Still, the site is worth comparing to others when booking your vacation.

Best Feature: Rather than making you scour the web for coupons, Funjet automatically applies any relevant promo codes to your search.

Note: If you’re headed to the Caribbean, Central or South America, Hawaii, or Mexico, try your search on Funjet’s sister site, Apple Vacations . The destinations it covers are more limited than Funjet’s, but I found that the prices were often a little better. CheapCaribbean.com is also owned by the same parent company, Apple Leisure Group.

Check out Funjet

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

If you’re ready to book your next adventure but don’t want to commit to a prepackaged bundle, you can still save big by booking your hotel stay with SmarterTravel Hotels.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Ireland: Wild Atlantic Way Trips w/Air...

Great Value Vacations

7-Night, Adults-Only Mediterranean Cruise, Incl. Ibiza,...

Virgin Voyages

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

31 June Travel Deals to Kick Off Summer

By Kyler Alvord and Paris Wilson

Summer is finally here. As we gear up for fun in the sun, there are some great travel deals to round off the month of June that you'll want to keep on your radar. Before the scramble for last-minute Fourth of July plans, snap up one of these deals for a quick weekend getaway or a big European vacation. From $89 hotel stays on the Las Vegas strip to 25 percent off Play flights to Europe, there's a lot of ground to cover in the next few weeks.

This month, hotels are beefing up their discounts to entice travelers to book early, especially for reward points members—Marriott is treating Bonvoy members to 20 percent off hotel and resort stays. Find discounted cruise trips with Oceania's deal offering two cruise fares for the price of one with an abundance of add-ons: free unlimited Wi-Fi, champagne, and shore excursions. Plus, Amtrak is continuing its ongoing sale, making regional travel a breeze for a quick weekend getaway. Jump on these deals before they rise like the temperatures.

Flight deals

Train deals, hotel deals, cruise deals.

• More travel deals

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Jamie Spain.

Play Airlines is offering competitive flight deals to Europe.

Jet Blue is celebrating 20 years of flights to the Dominican Republic

Jet Blue is happy to celebrate twenty years of flights to the DR with travelers, and this monumental milestone calls for major savings. Now until June 24, travelers can score fares as low as $99 on one-way flights to the Dominican Republic from September through November.

Play Airlines is offering 25 percent off flights to Europe in celebration of Pride

To celebrate Pride month this year, Play Airlines is offering two advantageous deals. First, travelers cans take 25 percent off flights to Iceland, Amsterdam, Berlin, Copenhagen, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, London, and Paris. Travelers will find daily departures out of Boston Logan Airport (BOS), New York Stewart Airport (SWF), Dulles Airport (IAD), and Baltimore International Airport (BWI). The deal applies to flights between August 2024 and March 2025. The second deal is a giveaway for one lucky traveler who will win free Play flights for two to attend Iceland's Pride in August. Travelers can submit to enter the giveaway  here  from June 18 through June 23, 2024.

College students save big on Lufthansa flights and baggage fees

Verify your student status with Lufthansa and immediately reap the rewards, unlocking a host of discounted economy flights between the United States and Europe, India, Africa, or the Middle East. Students also earn one free piece of checked baggage and the option to get a refund without fees. The program only applies to students in college who are over the age of 16.

Cut costs big time with Frontier Airlines’ shockingly cheap one-way flight sales

Spring sales are in full swing at Frontier Airlines , where travelers can currently snag one-way flights as cheap as $14 between select locations on select dates. This option works best if you’re flexible with dates and destinations—you won’t have a lot of wiggle room with these deals. If you’re feeling restless, on a budget, or are eager to get out of town, consider Frontier for an affordable start to your getaway.

Save up to 30 percent on vacation packages with Spirit Airlines

The budget airline is making it a cinch to save big not just on airfare, but hotels and more with its vacation packages , which are currently up to 30 percent off when travelers book a combination of flights, hotels, or rental cars together. Several of the top deals offer trips to Las Vegas and Cancun from cities like Chicago , Houston , and Atlanta , starting at surprisingly low prices that include flights and a hotel.

Save up to 40 percent on hotel stays with Etihad Airways’ Stopover Package

Stopover packages are a great way to add another destination to your journey without spending too much extra cash. Travelers who want to experience Abu Dhabi can take advantage of Etihad Airways’ discounted Stopover Packages , which currently include up to two free nights in select three- or four-star hotels, or 40 percent off two- or four-night hotel stays at premium properties. The offer also comes with discounts on restaurants and other experiences, as well as amenities like 24-hour check-in and complimentary Wi-Fi. Travelers must make bookings at least three days in advance before arriving in Abu Dhabi.

Rocky Mountaineer is famous for its incredible views of the North American West

Ride out Amtrak’s range of ongoing sales

Amtrak is always offering some good longer-lasting deals. Students aged 17–24 can enjoy up to 15 percent in savings on train rides booked at least a day in advance, trimming costs on a variety of routes that range from coast to coast with no change fees. Plus, on most journeys, seniors save 10 percent on ticket costs—that means travelers 65 and over for qualifying domestic trips and ages 60 and up on cross-border expeditions. And, Amtrak has sweetened the savings on its children’s discount , so little ones between two and 12 years old may travel for 50 percent off with an accompanying adult.

Save 10 percent on Grand Canyon Railway getaway packages

The Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, home to one of the most scenic train routes in the US , will cover all the bases with its two- and three-night getaway packages that include lodging, meals, and—of course—a train ride through the Southwest’s most-visited national park. The bundles are currently 10 percent off the usual price for an undetermined amount of time, meaning if there was ever a moment to jump on the full canyon experience, it’s now.

Plan a large group outing and earn the seventh spot free

Looking to take your next family reunion to a new level? Get the ol’ college friends back together? Go on a quadruple date? Whatever the occasion, EF Go Ahead Tours’ Group Travel Program caters to large groups, allowing you to handcraft your next experience and save some money along the way. For every six people who sign up, you’ll get a seventh tour spot for free. You can view this as buy six tickets, get one free; or buy 12, get two free; or buy 18, get three free—you get the point. There’s no cap to the number of free spots you can earn. Why not go all out?

Firework content

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

Nobu Restaurant in Caesars Palace.

Secure hotels for as low as $89 on the Las Vegas strip

For those flocking to Las Vegas this summer, you can book popular hotels such as Caesars Palace , Flamingos, Paris Las Vegas, and Nobu Hotel Las Vegas for rates as low as $89 a night during the Vegas Vacation sale. Now through July 1, travelers will get the lowest rates possible with the promo code BAR24. If you aren't able to make it in the next few months, reservations can be made for stays between now and March 2025.

Marriott Bonvoy members get 20 percent off resort and hotel stays

It pays to be a part of the Marriott Bonvoy rewards club. From June 10 through July 7, Marriott Bonvoy members are able to save 20 percent off hotel bookings for weekend getaways and 20 percent off of resorts stays throughout the week. While members get the most savings, non-members can still get 15 percent off.

Get up to 20 percent off at Ace Hotels when you pay early

Ace Hotel’s Greetings From the Future deal rewards guests who book—and pay—at least two weeks in advance by trimming up to 20 percent off the reservation price. The discount, cleverly branded as “paying it forward for future you,” applies at multiple Ace locations and can be secured by booking through the deal webpage.

Book a suite with Loews Hotels and get extra on-site perks

Loews Hotels is sweetening its suite experience by giving travelers up to $125 daily for food and drink—the credit amount varies by location—plus free Premium Plus Wi-Fi. Currently, the hotels offering the largest dining credits are Loews Miami Beach and Loews Regency New York , but other properties still put up a good fight. Check out the offer page to find out what you can expect at your dream Loews destination.

Get a sweet, suite deal at Mondrian Los Angeles

Level up your LA vacay with discounted suites at Mondrian Los Angeles—they’re currently 20 percent off and also come with a $25 daily in-room dining credit and guaranteed late check out of 1 p.m. (early check-in is based upon availability; the deal also is subject to availability, and blackout dates may apply). The suites offer travelers a spiffy home base right in the heart of West Hollywood, and the property’s dreamy rooftop pool is a perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing and celeb spotting.

Hop on a free catamaran cruise in Jamaica with Beaches Resort

If you’re looking for a dreamy island getaway, look no further. Those who book a Jamaican trip with Beaches to either Beaches Negril or Beaches Ocho Rios can expect a free catamaran cruise on bookings of five nights or more. Stay seven nights or more to also get $250 in resort credit. Use the code JJAM2024 to secure the deal.

Save 15 percent or more on spontaneous bookings with Booking.com

Booking.com loves a getaway deal , which comes in handy if you’re still not sure where you’re staying for that last-second trip you’re trying to pull together. The site promises at least—not “up to”—15 percent off qualifying hotels of all price ranges, which are sorted by destination on the site to help guide you to a decision.

Save on select Ace Hotel properties, including its Brooklyn location

Unlock up to two free nights at thousands of Wyndham properties worldwide

From now until August 31, Wyndham rewards members have the chance to earn up to 15,000 bonus points (worth two free nights). Stay two consecutive nights at a Wyndham property to earn 7,500 bonus points, three consecutive nights to earn 12,500 bonus points, and four or more consecutive nights to earn 15,000 bonus points. Rewards members can also expect savings of up to 20 percent off or more when they book a stay for three or more consecutive nights between May 22 and July 15, 2024. Stays must be redeemed by September 30. You can join Wyndham’s rewards program for free here .

Save 20 percent at Omni Hotels on three-night stays

Omni’s Spring Savings offer is crystal clear: At the chain’s participating hotels and resorts, guests can now save 20 percent on bookings of three nights or longer. Book directly through the offer page and the deal is done, no additional effort required.

Take up to 15 percent off properties at Extra Holidays

Whether you’re looking for a sunny summer destination like Daytona Beach or the US Virgin Islands , or want to experience city life in Atlanta or Las Vegas , Extra Holidays has tons of great hotels to choose from. Guests will see savings of up to 15 percent off at properties from Club Wyndham, WorldMark by Wyndham, Margaritaville Vacation Club, and more, as long as they book between now and July 8.

Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises

Score two cruise fares for the price of one on an Oceania cruise

During Oceania's “ simply MORE” sale event, travelers can secure two cruise fares for the price of one, get bundled roundtrip airfare, and receive free airport transfers, shore excursions, champagne, and unlimited Wi-Fi. The available 2024 and 2025 sailings are covering much of Europe: Lisbon, Hamburg, Amsterdam, and Barcelona ; as well as Singapore, Montreal , Aukland, Buenos Aires , and New Zealand.

Take 40 percent off Holland America Line cruise fares

Holland America Line has started its Summer Savings event and ends June 28. The highlight of the deal is snagging up to 40 percent off fares for cruises between May 2024 and April 2025, but you can also get up to $100 in onboard credit, a 50 percent reduced deposit, and—on select cruises—you can bring third and fourth guests for free.

See up to 15 percent in savings and up to $2,200 in ship credit on select Seabourn voyages

Take to the waters with Seaborn to “sea” some really great savings on select 2024 and 2025 trips. Guests can save up to 15 percent on select voyages when they book between now and June 25, 2024, like an 18-day trip through Chile and Antarctica , or a cruise through the Panama Canal . Guests can also take advantage of the “More Moments on Us” promotion which offers up to $2,200 in ship credit per suite that can be applied to a variety of activities include shore excursions, spa services, and Wi-Fi packages. (The promotions must be used separately.)

Enjoy all-inclusive amenities on a yacht-style Windstar cruise for $89 per day

Windstar Cruises’ all-inclusive fares allow guests to upgrade to a luxury ocean experience for only $89 more per day per guest, if booked by June 30 and more than five days before departure. This means you’ll get Wi-Fi access plus unlimited alcoholic beverages with gratuities included. Windstar’s yacht-style cruises tour a variety of areas , from the Mediterranean and northern Europe to Tahiti and Central America.

Sail the seas with nearly half off Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises

It’s still wave season and you can expect deals on all of your favorite cruises to destinations around the world. For those that book their next Hurtigruten Expeditions trip between now and June 30, savings of up to 45 percent are in your future. You can expect to see these huge discounts on 2024 and 2025 expeditions to Antarctica , Alaska , Greenland , the Galapagos Islands , and plenty more.

If you miss the cutoff for the 45 percent offer, there’s hope for you yet. With some extra planning, travelers can still slash 40 percent off 2025-2026 cruises , and for a limited time, solo travelers can join select cruise itineraries without paying the single supplement fee .

A Cruise Croatia ship sailing the gorgeous Dalmatian Coast

Cruise Croatia is offering bar credit on luxury yacht sailings booked early

If you’ve seen the photos of Dubrovnik and Split, you know that a visit to the Dalmatian Coast deserves to be on everyone’s bucket list. With Cruise Croatia ’s current deal, travelers save when booking early for cruises departing in May 2025—expect to receive $80 of bar credit per cabin as well as a complimentary traditional village dinner on the Island of Korcula. You can also see savings of up to 40 percent off on last minute voyages .

See Greece in a new light with big savings on trips from Celestyal Cruises

For wave season this year, Celestyal Cruises is taking you on the trip of a lifetime to Greece. A seven-night Greece and Greek Island cruise is going for as low as $679 per person right now, and you’ll find other Greek cruise fares for as low as $279 per person. Your wallet will certainly thank you for taking advantage of Celestyal’s promotions.

Solo travelers get a room to themselves for cheap with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Traveling alone is a freeing experience, but can come at a steep price if you wind up paying double to secure a room to yourself. Fortunately, solo travelers can now book two-person rooms on select Uniworld river cruises for the price of just one guest, aiming to break down the financial barriers that often deter independent explorers from planning their dream getaway. Current itineraries eligible for the discounted rate last anywhere from 8 to 16 days and span all over Europe— Paris , Amsterdam , Venice , Lisbon —they’re all yours to see.

Holland America Line cruise

Take your family on a Disney cruise with a 25-percent-off special

Family-friendly Disney Cruise Line is offering between 20 and 25 percent savings on select cruises from ports like Civitavecchia, Italy; Barcelona, Spain ; Galveston, Texas; and Port Canaveral, Florida. The cruises on offer include routes all across the globe, on a variety of ships.

Even more travel deals

Get 20 percent off all-inclusive resorts at priceline when you bundle hotels and flights.

Summer is in full swing for Priceline. See savings of 20 percent off or more for guests who bundle hotels and flights when booking top all-inclusive resorts. You can also save 20 percent off or more on trending city hotels, 40 percent off of Florida hotels with express deals, and up to 40 percent off theme park destinations when you bundle hotels and flights.

Get up to 25 percent off a car rental—and a free upgrade—when you pay ahead

Avis and Budget’s spring sales mean drivers can get rewarded for paying up front when they book a car rental. The deal applies at the sister brands’ participating locations between now and the end of the year; travelers will get 25 percent off the time and mileage charges on their bill, and a free upgrade. To redeem, mention the coupon codes on the deals page and watch the perks pour in.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Members can access discounts and special features

Search vacation packages, featured travel.

Vacation Packages Under $400

Book your flight and hotel together, and together, we can make it happen.

All-Inclusive Resorts 

Get More Bang for Less Buck.

Discover airfare

 Flights under $200

Travel advice and inspiration from the experts

A road trip for every season

In a country as vast and geographically diverse as the USA, it’s ALWAYS road trip season somewhere. 

The best glamping in all 50 states

There’s nothing like immersing yourself in nature on a woodsy getaway where days are wiled away outside. 

Let's find your ideal travel companion

Knowing up front whether or not you’re travel compatible can save a lot of heartache. 

Deals designed for you

Last minute

All-inclusive

Pet-friendly

Solo traveler

Top domestic vacation destinations.

US Virgin Island

Top international vacation destinations

Vacation Ideas

Beach vacation destinations.

• Bahamas Vacations
• Bali Vacations
• Bora Bora Vacations
• Cabo San Lucas Vacations
• Dominican Republic Vacations
• Jamaica Vacations
• Kauai Vacations
• Key West Vacations
• Maui Vacations
• Montego Bay Vacations
• Myrtle Beach Vacations
• Playa del Carmen Vacations
• Punta Cana Vacations
• Hawaii Vacations

International city vacations

• Amsterdam Vacations
• Barcelona Vacations
• Dublin Vacations
• London Vacations
• Paris Vacations
• Rome Vacations
• Tokyo Vacations
• Venice Vacations

City vacation destinations

• Denver Vacations
• Grand Canyon Vacations
• Lake Tahoe Vacations
• Las Vegas Vacations
• Miami Vacations
• New Orleans Vacations
• New York Vacations
• Orlando Vacations
• San Francisco Vacations
• Seattle Vacations

International vacation destinations

• Australia Vacations
• Caribbean Vacations
• Costa Rica Vacations
• Dubai Vacations
• Fiji Vacations
• Mexico Vacations
• Thailand Vacations
• United Kingdom Vacations

Destination deals

• Daily travel deals
• Vacation package deals
• Travel coupons and promo codes
• Last minute travel deals
• Best vacations by country
• Travelocity reviews
• USA vacation packages
• All Inclusive Vacations

Best Summer Travel Deals 2024

Want to find the best summer travel deals? Here's a bucket list of discounts on flights, hotels and car rentals from Delta, United, Hyatt, Marriott, Avis, National and more.

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Looking for the best summer travel deals for 2024? Whether you’re booking a fun family trip, beachfront hideaway, golf retreat, or just a weekend away from the daily demands of life — relax, reset and have a care-free vacation with one (or more) of these amazing deals we found. 

Here's a look at the best airline, hotel and resort, car rental, cruise, package and other deals available right now.

Airline deals on flights 

Delta. Delta has dozens of deals on flights this summer, depending on the flight origin and destination. Skymiles members can use or receive points on their summer flights. Traveling from places like Chicago to New York in July? You may qualify for fares as low as $175 round trip. Or, enjoy sandy beaches and endless sun at the Villa La Valencia Beach Resort and Spa , in Los Cabos, Mexico. Kids stay & eat free or, enjoy a free daily breakfast for the whole family. Book your flight by July 8 and travel anytime from June 4 to December 19, 2024. 

Subscribe to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

Be a smarter, better informed investor.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters

Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.

Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.

United.   United is offering package deals, weekly deals and promotions to people traveling to countless destinations this summer. And, if you book your next trip by June 25th, you can earn up to 30,000 bonus miles. Fly from Houston to Las Vegas late in  July and book a two-night stay at the Rio Hotel and Casino for only $312 per person. Or, stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Orlando, FL, from August 10 - 13 for $763 per person. Flight, hotel, taxes and fees included.   

American. Vacationing around the world just got better with American Airlines Vacations and the AAdvantage program. Book your flight by June 30th and earn 20,000 bonus miles when you stay at a Jamaica resort . Soak up the sun for as low as $732 per person. Traveling across the country? Save $100 when you book a vacation using promo code JUNE2024 with a minimum stay of three nights from June 1 - June 30. The average total price per person is based on round-trip flights in the Main Cabin and double occupancy hotel stays. 

Southwest. Southwest Airlines ' summer sale has landed. Save up to $500 anywhere Southwest flies. Plus, save an additional $100 when you book by June 18. Or, plan your dream vacation with RIU Hotels and Resorts and save up to 65% when you book your travel from June 14 - June 20 and travel from June 15 - March 5. Flight and hotel included.

Hotel and resort deals

Hyatt Hotels. Enjoy your Hyatt stay in Mexico or the Caribbean with savings of up to 20% off at participating resorts. Activities such as snorkeling and live entertainment are all included in your room rate. Offers vary per destination and availability.  Rather take in the luxe skyscrapers of Tokyo or the lush gardens of Thailand? Save up to 15% on stays between June 12 and January 4 when you book by July 9 and use special offer code STAYNOW . 

Wyndham. Join Club Wyndham and book your flight, hotel, car rental and package deals all in one place. With Wyndham, you can also save on cruises, tours and more. Not ready to join? You can still take advantage of dozens of discounts on your hotel stay at places like Florida and Tennessee. Celebrate SeaWorld's 60th Anniversary with an unforgettable summer at SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, or Aquatica. Now through August 27, save 10% on your hotel and receive a complimentary theme park ticket to a park of your choice. 

Hilton. Plan your next getaway with Hilton and enjoy resort credits to personalize your experience. Book early and save up to 40%, or stay longer in paradise and save even more at many beach, golf, ski, spa and luxury resorts. Choose from Ocean City, Maryland, Virginia Beach, Virginia, Myrtle Beach, SC and more. 

Marriott Bonvoy. Whatever your travel style, you are sure to enjoy your stay at one of Marriott’s 7,300+ hotels around the globe. Right now, if you book by June 19, and use promotional code ES7, you can stay 4+ nights and receive 25% savings and up to a $400 Resort Credit on your Atlantis Paradise Island stay.

Car rental deals

Enterprise. Whether you’re heading off on a romantic break or getting in some much-needed time with the family, consider Enterprise . Travel to New Zealand and get 10% off your car rental plus a free additional driver if you book your rental by July 31, 2024. 

Hertz. Save up to 15% on worldwide rentals when you book your car rental through Hertz by June 25 and pick up between July 1 and September 30, 2024. You can even save on rentals picked up from June 1 in Mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands.

Alamo. Alamo has daily and weekly specials for last-minute travelers and vacationers planning ahead to destinations in the U.S. and Canada. Both last-minute specials and plan-ahead specials require a one-day minimum rental with a four-day maximum. Price varies on pick-up and final destination. 

Budget. Ready for a summer getaway with a Budget car rental? Plan it now and save up to 35% on your car rental reservation from Budget when you select Pay Now. No discount code is needed—simply input your travel information and choose Pay Now to get the discount.

 More ways to save on summer travel

You can also find dozens of summer package deals, including airfare, hotels and car rentals, from Priceline , Kayak , Expedia , and more. Or search for a summer-time deal on Going . Or try Google Flights , the Dollar Flight Club , Thrifty Traveler , Airfarewatchdog or Momondo . 

Ready for a cruise ? Check out the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and score incredible offers and last-minute deals on weekend getaways to the tropics, week long Euro discoveries, adventures in Alaska and more. Or find other summer deals on cruises at Cruise Critic . Plus, if you’re heading out this summer, we can help you navigate an extra-busy summer travel season . Where will you go next?

Related Content

• Planning a Summer Vacation? Four Ways to Make It Affordable
• Summer Activities That Can Impact Your Taxes
• Do Americans Need a Visa for Europe in 2024? What to Know About ETIAS
• Deals - Kiplinger

To continue reading this article please register for free

This is different from signing in to your print subscription

Why am I seeing this? Find out more here

For the past 18+ years, Kathryn has highlighted the humanity in personal finance by shaping stories that identify the opportunities and obstacles in managing a person's finances. All the same, she’ll jump on other equally important topics if needed. Kathryn graduated with a degree in Journalism and lives in Duluth, Minnesota. She joined Kiplinger in 2023 as a contributor.

Baby Boomers face a retirement like no generation before them, and rather than being the 'beginning of the end,' it's the beginning of a new life phase.

By Richard J. Leider Published 23 June 24

How new government policies might benefit federal student loan holders.

By Sarah Brady Published 22 June 24

Get up to 90,000 bonus United Airlines miles (worth about $1,012) and lounge access when you sign up for a Chase credit card.

By Ellen Kennedy Published 22 June 24

An explanation of private mortgage insurance, which has become more relevant with rising home prices and higher mortgage rates.

By Ella Vincent Published 19 June 24

Luxury homes offer eye-catching amenities and high-end décor. Double vanities, kitchen islands and heated floors are among the most sought-after details by the richest homebuyers.

By Kathryn Pomroy Published 19 June 24

If you don't plan for these hidden expenses of homeownership when buying a home, you could be stuck paying more than you can afford.

By Erin Bendig Published 18 June 24

Kiplinger reviews how to find the right home health care for yourself and your situation.

By Ella Vincent Published 16 June 24

Patience helped these four investors make their portfolios work for them.

By Kim Clark Published 16 June 24

Looking for fun, free things to do on vacation? From walking tours to festivals to museums, there are all kinds of options for the budget-conscious traveler.

By Daniel Bortz Published 15 June 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise with us

Kiplinger is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

Penis cancer cases surge across the globe: Docs reveal how to...

Why smart travelers are sitting out summer in Europe this year...

Why your Starbucks drink is now half the price: 'More fairly...

The seven chilling signs you're a narcissist — and why it all...

Florida treasure hunters amazed by discovery in 300-year-old...

Gen Zer who started OnlyFans to 'make lots of money' reveals...

How Rose Kennedy became the most dangerous member of the famous...

Dear Abby: I stalked a DJ as a teen in the 80s, should I contact...

Are flights really cheaper on tuesdays travel experts reveal tips to get the best airfare deals.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Follow on X
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Is there really a “best” day to book a flight?

There’s long been a myth that Tuesdays are the day to book airfare if you want the lowest price and that prices surge on weekends — but that’s not necessarily true, according to experts.

Google published an analysis in 2022 found that when shopping for flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays rather than Saturdays or Sundays, prices are only 1.9% cheaper on average. A Google Flights spokesperson told USA TODAY that this holds true as of June 2024.

According to both Hopper and Google Flights, there’s no point in waiting for any specific day to book a flight since the difference in cost is only marginal.

“We tested this out and looked at the best day of the week to book for a number of popular trips and Tuesday was the cheapest day just 1% of the time,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s lead economist, told USA TODAY. “The best price might be available on Tuesday – but it might be available on another day of the week.”

Meanwhile, Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks report published in September 2023 had a surprisingly different take: “Sunday remains the cheapest day of the week to book flights, while Fridays are most expensive. On average, travelers saved up to 13%.”

According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), flights from major airports in the U.S. cost 29% more on average this year than they did in 2021, so any savings on airfare could make a huge difference.

And there are plenty of other factors other than the day of the week you book your flight that impact the price point more.

“While everyone wants a golden rule for the best day of the week to book a flight – the reality is that the best day, and time, to book a flight depends on a number of factors,” Berg shared.

One of Berg’s top tips is to book in advance and don’t wait until the last minute.

Using tools such as Hopper or Capital One Travel can help people monitor flight prices in an easy and effective way. Berg recommends trying to book domestic flights one to three months prior to the departure date, and international flights between four and five months before departure.

“Don’t leave booking too late; prices can increase by hundreds in the final weeks before departure,” she said.

Expedia’s report reflected similar findings, noting that those who purchase airfare for domestic flights 28 days in advance pay on average 24% less than last-minute bookings.

However, the day you fly out is more important than the day you book your flight.

Choosing a flight that departs in the middle of the week rather than the weekend can help travelers get cheap airfare — saving people on average 18% on domestic summer airfare, Hopper found.

Mid-week savings are even more for international fare, with people deciding to fly to Europe this summer on a Tuesday or Wednesday saving $435 per ticket, according to Hopper.

Google Flights found similar data, with flights departing on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday being on average 12% cheaper than flights on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.

So book your flights whenever you want, but you might want to opt for a mid-week departure.

Share this article:

Advertisement

Expect a record-breaking number of travelers on Fourth of July week: How to avoid traffic

• An estimated 70.9 million people will travel for the Fourth of July holiday, a record-breaking number.
• The most popular domestic destinations are Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami.
• The worst times to drive for 4th of July week are July 3 and 4 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

If you’re one of the projected record-breaking 70.9 million travelers going on a Fourth of July trip, get ready to pack some patience. 

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a statement. “We anticipate this July 4 week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Whether you’re going by airplane or car, traveler numbers are hitting historic highs. An estimated 5.74 million people will fly to their Independence Day destination, a 7% increase from 2023. (We can thank domestic airfare being slightly cheaper this year for that.)

This year, 2.8 million more people will travel by car than last year, for a total of 60.6 million travelers. According to AAA partner and rental car company Hertz, cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Denver, and San Francisco are showing the highest rental car demand. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Fourth of July travel. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Planning your summer trip? Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

What are the most popular destinations for Fourth of July week?

Many travelers are headed to the coast for their Independence Day trip, with states like Hawaii and Florida topping the list. With the best time for Alaskan cruises in full swing, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Anchorage are popular among travelers. As expected, beloved European destinations like London and Rome earned spots on the list as well. 

Most popular domestic destinations:

Most popular international destinations:

What are the best times to drive for Fourth of July week?

As is typical with holiday travel, the early bird will catch the worm, which means encountering the least traffic. Drivers should depart on their Independence Day road trips before noon on July 3 and 4. To return home, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on July 7 and after 7 p.m. on July 8. 

What are the worst times to drive for Fourth of July week?

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.”

On July 3 and 4, drivers should avoid being on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic will be most congested. On Friday, July 5, the worst traffic will be between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

On Saturday, July 5, the worst traffic for travelers returning home will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The worst traffic is anticipated to be on July 7, so drivers should avoid the road between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

“Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions,” Pishue said.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

• Worst route: Birmingham to Atlanta via I-20 E
• Worst day: July 7
• Worst time: 6:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 36 minutes
• 42% increased travel time
• Worst route: Boston to Hyannis via Pilgrim Hwy S
• Worst day: July 4
• Worst time: 1:45 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
• 31% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 S
• Worst day: July 8
• Worst time: 2:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
• 56% increased travel time
• Worst route: San Antonio to Houston via I-10 E
• Worst day: July 6
• Worst time: 1:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 48 minutes
• 41% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 S
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
• 29% increased travel time
• Worst route: Jersey Shore to New York via Garden State Pkwy N
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
• 40% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route: San Francisco to Monterey via Santa Cruz Hwy S
• Worst day: July 2
• Worst time: 5:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 31 minutes
• 19% increased travel time
• Worst route: Ellensburg to Seattle via I-90 E
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 19 minutes
• 35% increased travel time

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Baltimore to Washington D.C. via Balt/Wash Pkwy S
• Worst time: 3:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hours, 1 minute
• 67% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .