If you’re looking to determine the best time of day to travel, several factors come into play, including transportation type and whether you want to avoid delays or save money. To simplify your decision-making process, we consulted experts to provide an overview of optimal travel times.

The Best Time of Day to Travel by Plane

In general, morning flights are preferable to afternoon or evening options due to fewer issues earlier in the day. Morning flights are less likely to experience delays or cancellations for several reasons. For starters, there tends to be no backlog of delays ahead of a morning flight. In contrast, taking a later flight could mean any delay to your inbound aircraft may cause a ripple effect of additional hold-ups throughout the day.

Moreover, weather conditions tend to be more stable in the morning. As former pilot Dr. Dan Bubb, a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, explains, “Weather-wise, there’s not as much instability because the temperature is cooler. Thus, if there’s any precipitation, it won’t be severe.” Consequently, this helps you avoid delays. Additionally, morning flights leave you with the entire day for backup options in case of unforeseen complications.

Finally, airfare tends to be more economical during off-peak hours. According to online research, flight departures prior to 9 a.m. are significantly cheaper than their afternoon or evening counterparts.

The Best Time of Day to Travel by Train

Trains are often used for commuting, making rush hour relevant here as well. Mornings and evenings are typically busier and more expensive, so afternoons are often the best choice.

According to Staffo Dobrev, director of communications at the travel search engine Wanderu, “The best time to travel by train is in the afternoon, between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. Within that period, train fares can be up to 33 percent cheaper than the rest of the day.” Not only is an afternoon train ticket generally less costly, but it also provides more flexibility for travelers, as there tends to be a greater number of trains operating during these hours.

The Best Time of Day to Travel by Bus

When traveling by bus, two key factors should be considered: rush hour traffic and ticket prices. If punctuality is a priority, it’s advisable to avoid rush hour, especially in major metropolitan areas.

However, when it comes to ticket prices, the best deals are typically found in the mornings. Research indicates that travelers can save up to 15 percent on bus tickets for departures between 6 a.m. and 12 p.m. This time frame also offers a wide variety of bus travel options. Additionally, traveling in the morning can often help you avoid overly crowded buses, as the majority of travelers tend to start their journeys in the afternoon.