Best Time to Buy an International Plane Ticket to North America

Just because you want to intern abroad in North America doesn’t mean your plane ticket has to break the bank. There are ways to maneuver through the many travel options available and come away with a great price on a plane ticket – no matter the distance. A recent study by Cheapair.com reveals a few simple truths about air travel that could save you a bundle.

The best time to book a flight to the United States or Canada is Tuesday or Wednesday. Prices tend to be more expensive on Mondays and in the mornings because business travelers are buying tickets through their companies’ accounts.

Cheapest days to travel in North America? Tuesday and Wednesday are the cheapest days to fly. The cheapest month to travel to North America is September and October.

The prime booking window is three weeks to five months before the start of your internship. If you’re flying to North America from Europe, Africa, Asia/Pacific, or the Middle East, it’s best to book a plane ticket as soon as possible. However, if you’re flying to North America from Latin America or the Caribbean, you have more flexibility as there are more flight options available. If you’re flying domestically or plan to intern in Canada and live in the U.S., between one-two months is the best time to get a flight since it’s always smarter to book in advance.

Check the local public and school holidays of where you’re interning to avoid more expensive tickets, like these holidays in the U.S. Keep an eye out on local events that will attract an international audience, too.

Additional tips:

• Use a flight app and get notifications so you’re always alert on the best deals. Download Jetradar, Skyscanner, Hopper, or Kiwi - all available on Apple and Android devices.
• If you’re researching prices on a computer, delete your cookies and history after every search so you’ll get served the most up-to-date price.
• Pick alternative days to fly or consider a lay-over in a different city, before heading to your study abroad program.
• Start saving for your trip sooner rather than later. Find 9 money-saving tips here.
• If you’re Pell-eligible, you’re guaranteed a Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Travel Grant that covers up to $2,000 toward airfare to and from your program location! Learn more here.

Intern in North America