1. Overview of Holiday Travel Savings
Travelers planning their holiday journeys can significantly cut costs through strategic timing and choices. Discovering the best times to fly, along with alternative strategies, can lead to substantial savings on airfare during peak seasons.
2. Best Time to Purchase Airfare
As travelers start considering their holiday travel plans, online travel agency Hipmunk has released predictions for the prime times to purchase flights. The ideal window for securing Thanksgiving and Christmas airfare, particularly in 2019, falls in the first week of September. Data indicates that buying tickets during this phase might save travelers up to 12% on Thanksgiving flights and an impressive 19% on Christmas flights.
This conclusion is based on an analysis of historical round-trip pricing data collected during holiday travel periods.
3. Fly on the Optimal Day
Moreover, selecting not just when to buy but also when to fly is crucial for maximizing savings. The data reveals that the most economical days to fly are often the holidays themselves. For Thanksgiving, the busiest travel day tends to be Wednesday. However, flying on Thanksgiving Day can result in savings of up to 12% compared to this peak day.
This year, with Christmas falling on a Wednesday, Saturday before the holiday will be the most crowded (and costly) day. By choosing to fly on December 25th instead, travelers might save as much as $300, provided they return on the 26th. If that tight schedule isn’t feasible, selecting alternative dates outside of the most popular ones can still lead to significant savings.
4. Stay Alert for Deals
Consequently, due to daily fluctuations in airfare prices, setting alerts is an effective method for securing great fares. According to data from Hipmunk released in 2018, travelers who monitored fare alerts saved an average of 6% on Thanksgiving flights and 7% on Christmas flights.
5. Explore Alternative Airports
If visiting San Francisco, consider flying into Oakland (OAK) instead. For trips to Washington, D.C., Baltimore (BWI) may be a more economical alternative compared to Reagan National Airport or Dulles International Airport.
Choosing alternative airports in primary U.S. cities can notably reduce ticket prices. Additionally, by inputting multiple airport codes in the same search, travelers can streamline their search and uncover a wider range of options.
6. Understanding Basic Economy Fares
Another aspect to consider is the “basic economy” fare, recognized as one of the most budget-friendly options offered by airlines. While it often involves limited seat selection and baggage restrictions, the cost savings associated with basic economy can be significant. With a little preparation—packing lightly and bringing your own snacks and a refillable water bottle—travelers can enjoy an economical journey without sacrificing comfort.
