Rear view of a young African American woman on vacation arriving in Barcelona.
We all know that holiday travel can be a headache, but it doesn't have to be a financial burden.
With Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years approaching, now is the time to take advantage of these flight deals. Google Flights 2024 Report reveals that savvy travelers should start booking their holiday flights as early as possible to take advantage of the best prices. Here’s what you need to know to score big savings and avoid last-minute price hikes.
For Thanksgiving, book in early October.
When it comes to traveling for Thanksgiving, timing is everything. According to Google Flights, the best time to book your Thanksgiving flights is early October. That's when airfares are the lowest and you're more likely to get the best deals. If you wait until mid-October or later, you could be looking at much higher prices. A recent study by NerdWalleThis is confirmed by data showing that travelers who booked in early fall saved up to 15-20% on holiday flights compared to those who booked later.
That means now is the time to act if you're planning to see family or friends for Thanksgiving. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have more flight options before planes start filling up.
For Christmas and New Year, book before the end of October.
If you’re looking to travel during the holiday season, the window to get a good deal is slightly longer but just as important. Google Flights suggests that the best time to book flights for the holidays is late October. While you can still find great fares through early November, booking before the end of October ensures you’ll get the lowest prices.
This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally, as flights tend to be more expensive closer to the holiday season. Even domestic travelers will see their prices increase sharply after Halloween, so don’t wait too long to book.
Other Ways to Save on Your Vacation Travel.
Besides booking at the right time, there are other ways to cut your travel costs. Consider flying on off-peak days, like the Monday before Thanksgiving or the Wednesday after Christmas, when fewer people are traveling and prices tend to be lower. Another money-saving tip is to set up Google Flight Alerts so you can track prices and take advantage of deals as soon as they drop.
Being flexible with your travel dates and airports can also make a big difference. Sometimes, flying into a smaller airport closer to your destination can save you hundreds of dollars. Finally, don’t forget to use any airline miles or credit card points you’ve accumulated throughout the year—holiday travel is a great time to redeem them!
It's time to book now.
The best time to book your holiday travel is fast approaching, and the earlier you book, the better. Booking your flights in early October for Thanksgiving and late October for Christmas and New Years will give you the opportunity to enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank. So, crack open your laptop, set up those alerts, and start planning your holiday travels today—your wallet will thank you!
