Let’s be honest—booking a flight can feel like playing a game where the rules keep changing. One minute you find a deal, and the next it’s gone or three times the price, with a seat next to the bathroom for good measure. But here’s the good news: Google has spent years analyzing flight data to help take the guesswork out of planning. And if your travels take you to or from Chicago, pairing that smart flight booking with a limo ride might just be the best decision you make.
Want Cheaper Flights? Fly Midweek
Google Flights crunched four years of numbers and the verdict is in: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are the cheapest days to fly. Flying on a Tuesday can save you around 13% to 20% compared to weekend departures. Sunday, on the other hand, wins the award for most expensive.
Friendly tip: Planning a flight from O’Hare or Midway? Schedule a weekday limo pickup. You’ll beat the crowds and dodge the weekend surge prices on rideshare apps.
Booking Time: Not Too Early, Not Too Late
Finding the sweet spot to book can save you real money. Here’s what Google suggests:
- Domestic flights: Book 21–52 days before takeoff (with 38 days out being ideal)
- International flights: Lock in fares 50–101 days in advance (aim for around 94 days before departure)
For the holiday crowd:
- Thanksgiving: Best booked 26–59 days out (try for 45 days ahead)
- Christmas: 36–72 days in advance (aim for 58 days)
- Spring Break: Best deals come 33–59 days before you go
- Summer Trips: Score lower prices 13–43 days ahead (sweet spot: 21 days)
Bonus tip for Chicago flyers: If you’re flying during a holiday, book your limo ahead of time too. It’s just as competitive as air travel that week!
Should You Choose a Layover?
If you’re okay with spending a little more time in transit, booking a flight with a layover could save you about 25%. Not bad, right? Just make sure you’re okay hanging out in an airport somewhere.
Bright side? When you land in Chicago, your limo can be waiting—no stress, no luggage juggling, no drama.
Is There a Best Day to Book Flights?
You’ve heard it before: “Always book on a Tuesday!” Well, Google says the difference is minimal. Booking on Tuesday is only 1.3% cheaper than booking on the most expensive day (Sunday). So if it’s Tuesday and the price is good—go for it. But don’t obsess over the calendar.
Instead, pay more attention to how far in advance you’re booking, rather than the day of the week.
For Europe, Mexico, and Caribbean Getaways
- Europe trips: Book around 94 days in advance
- Mexico/Caribbean: Target 26–68 days before departure (aim for 44 days)
Chicago tip: For international flights out of O’Hare, book your limo early, especially if you’re traveling in winter. Trust us, Chicago snowstorms and last-minute ride planning do not mix.
Why a Limo is the Smart Play
So you nailed your flight booking—now finish strong:
- No hunting for airport parking.
- No hauling bags through the snow.
- No guessing if your ride will show up on time.
Whether it’s an early morning departure or a late-night arrival, a limo means less stress and more comfort. Especially in a city like Chicago, where a 20-minute ride can turn into an hour-long adventure.
Bottom Line: Book Smart, Ride Smarter
Airfare prices may always change, but with Google’s data and a bit of planning, you can stay ahead of the curve. And when your airport ride is already taken care of—smooth, comfortable, and on time—you’ve already won half the battle.
Checking flight deals? Don’t forget to look up Chicago limo rates and reserve your ride [here].