Flying first class is an unforgettable experience — spacious seats, personalized service, gourmet dining, and access to luxurious lounges. But if you’re like most savvy travelers, you’re probably wondering: When is the best time to book first class flights for maximum savings?
The good news is, with the right strategy and timing, you can enjoy the luxury of first class without paying full fare. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to secure exclusive flight deals and maximize your savings.
Why First Class Flight Prices Fluctuate
Before we dive into the best booking times, it’s important to understand why first class ticket prices vary so much:
- Demand and supply: High travel seasons drive prices up, while slower periods often come with discounts.
- Airline promotions: Airlines periodically offer limited-time sales to fill premium seats.
- Booking patterns: Airlines adjust fares based on how quickly seats are selling.
Knowing these patterns can give you a huge advantage when planning your next luxury trip.
The Best Time to Book First Class Flights
1. Book 3 to 6 Months in Advance
Unlike economy flights – where last-minute deals are sometimes possible – first class flights are best booked early.
Booking 3 to 6 months before departure often strikes the perfect balance between availability and price. This timeframe gives you access to discounted first-class seats before they sell out or prices climb.
✅ Pro Tip: For international first class flights, aim closer to 6 months ahead for the best deals.
2. Watch for Seasonal Sales
Airlines typically run big promotions during:
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday (late November)
- New Year and January sales
- Early summer sales (April–June)
Setting fare alerts during these periods can help you snag first-class travel deals before they’re gone.
3. Fly During Shoulder Seasons
If your schedule is flexible, flying during the shoulder seasons – the period between peak and off-peak times — can lead to major savings.
For example:
- Late April to early June
- September to early November
During these months, airlines are eager to fill planes, even in first class, so you can find premium seats at lower rates.
4. Midweek Departures Are Cheaper
Most travelers prefer flying out on Fridays and returning on Sundays, so airlines often charge more for those days.
If you can depart on a Tuesday or Wednesday, you might find significant discounts on first class tickets.
5. Consider Last-Minute Upgrades
Although rare, if you’ve already booked an economy or business class ticket, airlines sometimes offer last-minute upgrade deals at check-in or 24-48 hours before departure.
These upgrades are often far cheaper than booking first class outright.
✅ Bonus Tip: Always ask about upgrade offers at the airport — sometimes you can upgrade to first class at a fraction of the cost!
Smart Tools to Help You Find Deals
- Google Flights: Set up fare alerts specifically for first class.
- ExpertFlyer: Tracks award seats and fare class availability.
- Newsletter Subscriptions: Follow airlines and travel deal sites to catch flash sales early.
Final Thoughts: Timing Is Key
So, when is the best time to book first class flights for maximum savings? Plan early (3–6 months ahead), monitor seasonal sales, fly during shoulder seasons, and stay flexible with travel days.
At Fly Only First Class, we specialize in helping you find exclusive first class deals without the usual stress of endless searching.
If you’re ready to elevate your travel experience, contact us today and let’s make your luxury journey a reality — at a price you’ll love.