Expedia has released its 2026 Air Hacks Report, revealing new travel trends and smarter ways Australians can save on flights. One of the biggest surprises is that Friday is now the cheapest day to fly, largely due to reduced business travel at the end of the week.
The report, based on millions of booking data points and consumer research, also found February is the most affordable month to travel, with fares up to 74 per cent cheaper than peak December prices, especially across Asia and the South Pacific.
For travellers hoping to avoid crowds, Tuesday is the quietest day to fly, while Fridays remain the busiest. Morning departures continue to be the most congested travel period. Mid-March and late July are among the calmest travel windows, while Good Friday and Boxing Day see the highest passenger volumes.
Booking economy flights four to six weeks before departure typically delivers the best value, with extra savings possible when booking on Thursdays or during July sales periods.
