The Consumer Price Index report comes out on Thursday, and economists expect it will show that prices of everyday items and commodities are still rising. But as 5 On Your Side reports, when you shop can make a big difference.

Looking to avoid overspending on gas, food, hotels and flights? Timing can make all the difference.

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  • Groceries: Shop on Wednesdays, when new sales kick in.
    • Gas: Fill up on Mondays. A 2022 GasBuddy study found prices were consistently lowest that day.
      • Flights: Forget the Tuesday myth. Booking then won’t guarantee a deal. Prices change several times a day. But time does still matter. NerdWallet found Saturday flights were the cheapest, averaging $218 for a round-trip ticket.
        • Hotels: If you’re willing to wait until the last minute, book on Fridays or Saturdays, when owners try to sell off vacant rooms. Unlike flights, most hotels let you cancel just days ahead with little penalty. Think: ‘Reserve early, book late.’ Lock in a room, but keep checking; you might score a better deal closer to your trip.

          And don’t forget, some products go on sale at certain times of year. September is a great time to buy a mattress or appliances. In October, the cost of candy will drop just in time for Halloween, and Target, Amazon, and Best Buy will roll out big sales.