Lifehacker spotted this excellent tip on when the best time is to buy airline tickets for the lowest prices:

What’s the absolute best time to purchase a ticket directly from the airlines? Turns out it’s Wednesday from midnight to 1a.m. in the time zone of the airline’s “home base.” (For instance, Delta is headquartered in Utah and United currently calls Chicago home.)

Why? That’s when the computer systems of most airlines get rid of the reserved but unbooked lower fare reservations. Most of us at one time or another have booked a reservation, then let it go without purchase. Snap-up these discounted fares right after this happens and you’re likely to get a significant discount.

Of course, if you’re looking to get a Frequent Flyer free ticket, the best time is either 331 Days or Less Than Four Weeks before. Use both tips together and you can snag yourself some dirt cheap flights.

We hope to have another post up later today on trading your credit card reward points for a free ticket, so watch for that so you can add another weapon to your cheap flight arsenal.

Tip For Best Purchase Time of Airline Tickets [Sound Money]

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