What is the best time to book a flight online?

Many people on this website will tell you that the airlines adjust their prices on certain days of the week or certain times of the day (usually just after midnight). Those are just myths. I worked in the travel industry and I can tell you that it's not true. From the airlines' perspective, it doesn't even make any sense.

Airlines change fares constantly based on supply and demand, not just at 1am or some other time. I've seen fares change throughout the day - sometimes more than once for the same flight.

The dates that you travel are much more important. Summer is far more expensive than winter. Fall and spring are in between. Weekdays are generally cheaper than weekends. The date or time that you buy the ticket doesn't really matter as long as you meet the advance purchase requirements.

The cheapest fares require that you buy the tickets in advance, usually at least 21 days before departure. However, the number of discount seats per flight are limited. Once they're gone, you pay more. Therefore, waiting too long can be expensive even if you've met the advance purchase requirement.

Generally, the thought is if you do it early early in the morning (between 12-4am), you will get the best fare b/c that is when the airlines sites reset. However, I have never actually seen this to be true. Just keep an eye on Kayak and get a good idea of average flight price and when it goes lower than average, buy it. I would NOT buy a flight for next summer now, though. I wouldnt buy until 6 months before you fly at the earliest, but thats just my advice.

Since you have awhile, sign up for Travelocity.com "Farewatcher". They will email you every time the fare changes to your destination (according to the parameters you submit). So, if prices drop dramatically, you will be the first to know. Also, check Farecast.com for historical data, which may or may not be reliable. You can never predict the future, but it is an indicator.

The Shadow knows!

The best time is when you find a price that you're willing to pay.