Early season sucks for wearing boots. My opinion is that if it doesn’t, then it’s time for new boots. My general rule for what is too tight if too lose is that I can wear my boots all day “pain” free, but I look forward to taking them off.
There is also a process to it. I usually start the day without any buckles closed but all on the correct ladder. I use a booster strap so I’ll have that just snug. Once I get going and am warmed up, I’ll start closing buckles, but usually just while skiing and at the bottom of the run will unbuckle them. I often forget to open the buckles after the run, but will be reminded (by discomfort) in the lift line r on the lift. If not reminded, I don't need to do that anymore.
Conversely, I’ll forget to close the buckles at the start of a run, but they are snug and stiff enough for it not to be a big concern as long as the booster strap is on.
There are a lot of variables at play here, time of day, outside temp, boot temp, especially when you put them on, how hard you’re skiing, terrain you’re skiing, how long standing in lines, and anything else that has an effect on the boot and/or your foot and ankle.
When you start buckling them, start at the top and work your way down. Also, close (flex) your ankle before closing any buckles. This makes sure your heel is at the back of your boot.
This all assumes your boots were fitted correctly. I view mine as perfect (thanks to GMOL) but since Bill’s shop isn’t the same temp as the slope, I usually have to make an adjustment here or there. Keep in mind, according to my wife, I can be like the “Princess and the Pea”, and will be distracted a good chunk of the day by trying to get each boot to feel and flex the same, even though booth feet aren‘t identical in shape and size or dorsiflexion.
Have fun,
Ken