While you’re busy sipping on those pumpkin spice lattes, it’s easy to forget that the holidays are sneaking up on us. Before you know it, you’re going to be hit with a wave of holiday cheer and panic as you realize you still need to book your holiday travel. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back with some insider tips on snagging the best deals on holiday travel.
A 2024 report from Google Flights shows that the best time to book flights for Thanksgiving is now, while Christmas and New Year’s flights should be booked by late October. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of booking your holiday getaway without breaking the bank.
Why Timing is Everything
Flight prices are like your unpredictable ex — always changing. One day they seem reasonable, the next they’re sky-high. Understanding when to book can save you a heap of cash. If you’re eyeing cheap airfare, historical patterns are your best friend. When you search on Google Flights for a destination and travel dates, you’ll see the optimal booking time. Here’s what the data tells us:
- Domestic Flights: Book 38 days before departure for the lowest prices. Keep an eye on the sweet spot between 21-52 days.
- International Flights: Grab those tickets 101 days in advance. Seriously, don’t wait until the last minute.
- Thanksgiving: Aim for booking 45 days before, early to mid-October.
- Christmas and New Year’s: Book 58 days ahead, late October is your deadline.
Essential Holiday Travel Booking Tips
1. Book Now or Stop Complaining
Okay, drama queens, listen up! The optimal booking window is passing, but all is not lost. Plan to book now — or at least before the end of October. According to Kayak, airfares spike dramatically after mid-October. Thanksgiving flights go up by 17%, Christmas by 51%, and New Year’s Eve by 25% — ouch! Set a price alert and pounce when fares drop below your budget.
2. Pick Your Travel Days Wisely
Timing is everything, especially when everyone and their dog is trying to get home for the holidays. Break the mold and travel when others aren’t — a holiday rebel, if you will. According to Orbitz, flying on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day can save you some serious cash. Use tools like Kayak’s Best Fares calendar to find the cheapest days to fly.
3. Protect Against Delays
Oh, the joys of connecting flights and potential delays. To minimize chaos, book the very first flight of the day. Early birds really do catch the worm (or, in this case, the plane). Delays create a domino effect, but if you’re first in line, you’ve got options. Stay ahead of the game by using apps like FlightAware to track your flight status.
4. Don’t Check Your Bags
If losing your luggage is your worst nightmare, you’re not alone. December is notoriously tricky for checked bags, thanks to increased mishandling incidents. Ship your bags via FedEx, UPS, or USPS for peace of mind. Yes, you’ll pay a bit more, but you’ll also avoid the airport baggage carousel chaos. If you must check a bag, use a luggage tracking device like Tile or Apple AirTag.
5. Just Go Away!
Here’s a pro tip for my savvy travelers — while everyone else is battling it out for domestic flights, consider jetting off somewhere international. Thanksgiving? What Thanksgiving? Take advantage of low-season deals abroad. Not only will you dodge the madness, but you might just find yourself sipping sangria in Spain while everyone else is fighting over pumpkin pie.
The Final Takeaway
Holiday travel doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With our holiday travel booking tips, a bit of planning, strategic booking, and a dash of bravery, you can save money and maybe even enjoy the process. Remember, timing is key, flexibility is your friend, and sometimes going against the grain is the best decision you’ll make.
Ready to set your travel plans in motion? Grab your calendar, mark those booking dates, and start planning your holiday adventure. Safe travels, and may your journeys be as fabulous as you are!