TIME TRAVEL: When you book your next adventure can influence how much you pay (Image: Getty)
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Ever wondered if your morning coffee break is actually the worst time to book a flight? A travel expert has shared a viral tip that might just save you hundreds on your next getaway
Rob, a social media guru known as @robonthebeach, suggests the single cheapest minute to book a holiday is 2.48am. According to his data, booking at this exact moment can be a staggering 60% cheaper than during the morning rush.
This news has sparked plenty of conversation among travellers, especially those hunting for deals during the workday. Based on his daily analysis of holiday data, Rob’s insights offer a practical guide for anyone looking to save.
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Why your 10am browse is costing you a fortune
It turns out that searching for deals between 9am and 10am is a recipe for a lighter wallet. Rob explains: "According to the data, the most expensive time to book a holiday is between 9 and 10am in the morning."
This peak period often sees prices jump by 30% as demand surges from workers browsing at their desks. He warns travellers: "No more booking holidays as soon as you get to the office."
If you aren't a night owl, the early hours between 4am and 5am are also fantastic for snagging a bargain. Airline pricing algorithms refresh overnight as the previous day’s demand drops, bringing prices down to their baseline, reports Ethan Evans on the Mirror.
What the travel community says
For those who value their sleep, there is another window of opportunity between 8pm and 10pm. While not as cheap as the middle of the night, it remains far more affordable than the morning peak.
Social media users have been quick to react, with one insomnia sufferer confirming that the early hours truly are the cheapest. Another joked: "Now everyone is going to book at this time, and it won't be cheap anymore."
Other travellers shared their own tips, such as clearing browser cookies to avoid price hikes based on your search history. One viewer simply noted the advice was "cheap as chips, fair play."
@robonthebeach When is the cheapest time to book a holiday? These are statistically the cheapest hours and exact time (to the minute!) to book a bargain holiday #holidayexpert #onthebeach #traveltips ♬ original sound - Rob⛱️ | Holiday Expert
How we book our breaks
Most of us take our planning seriously, with YouGov data showing that 35% of Brits book one to three months ahead. Around 78% of UK adults take at least one holiday every year, according to ABTA.
IPA research suggests we typically book our trips roughly 17 weeks before we actually head off. Knowing these timing tricks could make that annual getaway much more affordable for everyone.
Expert Tip: To ensure you are getting the absolute best price, always use an incognito window alongside booking in the early hours to prevent tracking cookies from inflating the cost.
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