Planning Your Holiday Travel Wisely

The 2024 holiday season is anticipated to be bustling and costly when it comes to travel. To effectively save on airfare, avoid flying on particular days that tend to be more expensive. Specifically, refrain from booking flights on the Tuesday or Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as well as the Sunday and Monday before Christmas. According to travel insights shared by Going, these dates frequently lead to inflated prices and crowded airports.

Understanding Peak Travel Days

Travelers should note that the Sunday after Thanksgiving is often considered the busiest travel day of the year. In contrast, flying on less conventional days, such as Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, can yield significant savings—potentially up to 25 percent off airfare. As Scott Keyes, founder of Going, mentioned, it’s essential to grasp the dynamics of cheap flights, as the likelihood of scoring great deals fluctuates daily.

Booking Strategies for Cost Efficiency

To ensure cheaper fares, it’s advisable for travelers to book their flights at least 21 days in advance, preferably before October 14 for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Waiting too long may lead to a spike in prices due to high demand. If you find a reasonable fare soon, book it and keep an eye on prices for any drops, making use of airlines’ no-change fee policies when possible. Additionally, those open to celebrating Thanksgiving abroad might find it a cost-effective way to avoid domestic travel surges during this festive season.