Flying from the United States to Ireland is an exciting journey, whether you’re planning to explore Dublin’s historic streets, the Cliffs of Moher, or reconnect with your Irish roots. But airfare is often the biggest expense of the trip. Knowing the best time to book flights can save you hundreds of dollars and help you travel smarter.
As someone who has flown from New York and Chicago to Dublin several times, I’ve seen firsthand how prices can swing dramatically depending on when you book. Once, I paid $720 roundtrip because I booked late in peak summer, while another time I snagged a $420 deal in spring by booking well in advance. The difference wasn’t luck—it was timing.
In this article, I’ll share research-backed insights, real experiences, and expert advice to help you figure out the best time to book flights from the USA to Ireland.
Why Timing Matters for Flights to Ireland
Flight prices are influenced by demand, seasonality, and how far in advance you book. For U.S.–Ireland routes, this is especially important because:
- High demand in summer: Ireland is most popular from June–August.
- Holiday travel surges: St. Patrick’s Day (March) and Christmas see price spikes.
- Limited direct routes: Most flights go through hubs like New York (JFK/EWR), Boston, or Chicago.
Research from CheapAir.com’s Annual Airfare Study shows that international fares fluctuate hundreds of times before departure, with prices rising sharply in the final weeks. That’s why booking strategically matters.
Best Time to Book Flights to Ireland from the USA
1. The Prime Booking Window (2–6 Months in Advance)
Studies suggest that the sweet spot for booking U.S. to Europe flights—including Ireland—is 60 to 180 days before departure.
- Too early (9–12 months ahead): Airlines often post higher fares initially.
- Too late (less than 3 weeks): Prices surge, especially during peak seasons.
👉 Example: For a May trip from Boston to Dublin, I booked 4 months in advance and paid $480 roundtrip. When I checked 2 weeks before departure, the same flight was $750+.
2. Best Months to Travel for Lower Fares
- Cheapest Months: January, February, early March, and November.
- Moderately Priced Months: April, May, September, October (shoulder seasons).
- Most Expensive Months: June, July, and August (peak summer travel).
👉 If budget is your priority, flying in winter or early spring can save you 25–40% compared to summer fares.
3. Day of the Week Matters
According to Hopper’s airfare research:
- Cheapest days to fly: Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
- Most expensive days: Fridays and Sundays (due to weekend travel demand).
When I flew Chicago to Dublin on a Wednesday, my fare was $130 cheaper than a friend who flew the same route on Sunday.
4. When NOT to Book
Avoid booking flights around these periods unless necessary:
- St. Patrick’s Day (March 17): Prices spike significantly.
- Summer holidays (mid-June to August): High demand across Europe.
- Christmas & New Year (mid-Dec to early Jan): Very limited deals.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal
- Set fare alerts on Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak.
- Consider nearby airports: Shannon (SNN) and Cork (ORK) sometimes offer better fares than Dublin (DUB).
- Be flexible with dates: Flying mid-week instead of weekends can save up to $100.
- Check budget carriers: Aer Lingus and occasionally Ryanair (via UK connections) can be much cheaper.
- Use airline miles or credit card points: Programs like AerClub (Avios) and United MileagePlus often have good redemption rates for Ireland routes.
Quick Reference: Average Roundtrip Prices from USA to Dublin
| Departure City | Low Season (Jan–Mar) | Shoulder (Apr–May, Sep–Oct) | Peak (Jun–Aug) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK/EWR) | $350–$450 | $500–$650 | $700–$850 |
| Boston (BOS) | $360–$480 | $520–$680 | $720–$880 |
| Chicago (ORD) | $400–$500 | $550–$700 | $750–$900 |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | $500–$650 | $700–$850 | $900–$1,100 |
FAQs About Booking Flights to Ireland
1. How far in advance should I book flights to Ireland from the USA?
The best window is 2–6 months in advance, depending on your travel dates.
2. What is the cheapest month to fly to Ireland?
January and February generally offer the lowest fares.
3. Is it cheaper to book flights directly with airlines or through third-party sites?
Prices are often similar, but airlines like Aer Lingus and Delta sometimes offer direct booking discounts.
4. Do last-minute deals exist for Ireland flights?
Rarely. Last-minute fares are usually higher, except in very low demand months.
Final Thoughts
The best time to book flights to Ireland from the USA is generally 2–6 months in advance, aiming for shoulder or low seasons if you want the best value. Flying mid-week, setting fare alerts, and being flexible with dates can help you shave hundreds off your ticket price.
From my personal experience, April and September are the perfect balance—reasonable prices, fewer crowds, and mild weather in Ireland.
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
