Right time to book?

[cheapskate]

Hi all,
Hoping experienced travelers can help? Not really sure where this post belongs but thought due to the Velocity partner connection it might loosely fit here.
I want to fly to Europe (Prague) next November. I found a great fare on cheapflights.com.au, and just as I was booking it, it disappeared. The price then went up by about $100. Possibly poor/unlucky timing, but I'm sure you can understand the conspiracy theories running through my head.
I want to fly Singapore because of the Velocity partner benefits (SC mostly, but points are good too). I note most comparison sites won't quote fares outside a 330-day lead-in time.
So, my questions are these: When is best time to book a discount fare? Will the airline gradually release seats in the months ahead? Or am I best to take whatever I can get now?
Cheers!

 

[Mattg]

For cash (i.e. not award) bookings, it's probably best to wait until a sale comes along. Booking that far in advance, there will probably be one at some point in the next few months.

Generally speaking, around 4-8 months out usually seems to be the best time to book. The only time it would make sense from a financial perspective to book 11 or 12 months out is for travel during a peak time (e.g. Christmas) as these flights are less likely to go on sale at a later date.

 

[cheapskate]

Many thanks, that makes considerable sense. And throws my conspiracy theory well and truly into play.

 

[Hvr]

However, if for some reason the flights to that region are popular then there may not be a sale. If your plans are fluid then hope for the sale. But if you must be there then, then book the fare now.

 

[Denali]

Ive been pricing up tickets for a trip, the current "sale" prices are $355pp one way higher than before their "sale".

The coupon/discount codes do help so try those as well.

 

[cheapskate]

Good points, thanks. In our haste, we went ahead and booked, with Hvr's point in mind - our dates weren't overly flexible and close to Christmas next year. We used a company called Directflights.com.au.
Weird outcome, though - which is possibly worth another thread. They're asking for a screengrab of the transaction. I've done it blanking our every possible personal detail on the page, including the URL. I'd have thought they'd be happy with their money.