Finding a cheap flight for your vacation requires research, planning and sometimes patience. Fortunately for you soon-to-be vacationers, CheapAir.com performs an annual study on the best time to book flights. This year’s study reveals the price of flights varies based on the time of year and destination of your vacation, but on average, the best time to buy your plane ticket is 54 days before takeoff. In addition, the study finds that, despite some travel myths, the day of the week you book your flight makes no difference, but the day of your actual departure significantly impacts the cost of your booking (think an average of $73 more). Opt for a Tuesday or Wednesday takeoff for the best airfare deals.
Check out the following tips for the cheapest flights for your next beach vacation to the Caribbean or Mexico.
When to Book Flights to the Caribbean
If you’re planning to head to the Caribbean for your next beach vacation, check out the different travel options and best times to purchase your airfare tickets based on your destination.
Aruba
Aruba has perfect beach weather year round, but during April and August (low season) you can avoid the region’s high prices. During your visit, be sure to look into Aruba’s local cuisine, animal encounters and windsurfing options—the trade winds are one of the many reasons millions visit this Caribbean destination every year.
Atlanta to Aruba
- Best time to buy: 208-320 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $626
Miami to Aruba
- Best time to buy: 210-320 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $432
New York to Aruba
- Best time to buy: 12- 78 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $657
Bahamas
The Bahamas’ peak vacation season is from November to mid-April, which makes it the perfect spring break destination. Upon arrival, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Bahamas. From swimming with sharks to resorts like SLS Baha Mar—this beach vacation will be unforgettable! Have a copy of your return ticket handy, as you may need to show proof that you will in fact, leave paradise.
Atlanta to Nassau, Bahamas
- Best time to buy: 26-121 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $538
Miami to Nassau, Bahamas
- Best time to buy: 1-64 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $338
New York to Nassau, Bahamas
- Best time to buy: 22-108 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $568
Dominican Republic
For the best travel deals to the Dominican Republic, you’ll want to plan well in advance. Dominican Republic’s high season for tourism is July and August and December through February. Pack your bags and plan to spend your trip sprawled on the most beautiful beaches in Punta Cana and the historic capital, Santo Domingo.
Atlanta to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Best time to buy: 20-153 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $657
Miami to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Best time to buy: 15-83 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $416
New York to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Best time to buy: 39-232 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $565
Jamaica
Jamaica has a temperate climate year round but November and December tend to be the best months for weather and prices. Sip a Red Stripe on Seven Mile Beach, dance at the Hip Strip and try authentic jerk chicken in this cultural hub.
Atlanta to Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Best time to buy: 19-320 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $531
Miami to Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Best time to buy: 14-82 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $351
New York to Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Best time to buy: 30-249 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $607
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a perfect beach destination all year, but avoid travel during summer, when storms and rainy season take over. Book your flights December through June and you can expect beachfront bars, delicious local eats and bioluminescent bays. No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without trying the national drink, the Piña Colada!
Atlanta to San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Best time to buy: 12-139 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $508
Miami to San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Best time to buy: 5-13 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $356
New York to San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Best time to buy: 12-136 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $464
When to Book Flights to Mexico
Heading to Mexico for your big trip? Check out the best times to get deals on Mexico airfare from major US cities.
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is known for a lot of things—partying, deep sea fishing and most importantly, beaches. Lover’s Beach is only a ferry ride from Médano Beach and gives beachgoers the backdrop of rock formations like Neptune’s finger. The best time to visit is May to June. Visit in May, and you can experience a magical swim with manta rays in the Sea of Cortez, only a two-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas.
Atlanta to Cabo San Lucas
- Best time to buy: 150-283 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $675
Miami to Cabo San Lucas
- Best time to buy: 89-233 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $791
New York to Cabo San Lucas
- Best time to buy: 259-320 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $606
Cancún
Cancún’s peak season is December to April, but be sure to visit before March if you want to avoid the swarms of spring breakers. While Cancún’s sparkling beaches are some of the most famous in the world, it’s the cenotes and Mayan ruins that make this beach destination stand out.
Atlanta to Cancún
- Best time to buy: 19-320 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $531
Miami to Cancún
- Best time to buy: 1-49 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $371
New York to Cancún
- Best time to buy: 12-73 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $599
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico has fewer visitors and optimal weather between April and June. Travelers frequent this relaxing beach town for surf, yoga retreats and beach vacations. In addition, Puerto Vallarta is also home to “the longest zipline in Mexico” and whale watching (December through February).
Atlanta to Puerto Vallarta
- Best time to buy: 33-96 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $735
Miami to Puerto Vallarta
- Best time to buy: 79-212 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $585
New York to Puerto Vallarta
- Best time to buy: 38-88 days in advance
- Average Price in 2017: $683
