AMERICANS planning to travel for Christmas and New Year’s are cautioned to book flights now to avoid higher prices as the holidays approach.
New data has revealed the best days and times for customers to buy tickets, so they can take advantage of deals and snag the lowest prices before the holiday rush, especially as fuel prices keep rising.
Google data shows travelers should buy their tickets as soon as possible to save money, particularly if they are headed to destinations in Mexico or Europe.
An analysis from the previous five years found that Christmas prices typically reach their peak around 56 days prior to departure for domestic flights.
Fortunately for travelers, several major airlines are offering holiday-season deals to help customers save on their travel plans.
While not Christmas-specific, Southwest Airlines is one of the few companies promoting sales this time of year, as most airlines look to capitalize on increased spending.
Southwest currently offers one-way flights for as low as $59, but customers must act quickly, as these deals run only from November 10 through the 12th.
Elsewhere, American Airlines is also offering vacation deals, with some advertised flights targeting the week of Christmas itself, such as Dallas to Los Angeles for $247 round trip.
As with any flight, customers should always check with the airline before clicking purchase to confirm rates and see if they include baggage fees and other charges, which could increase the final charge.
Finding a good deal is half the battle when traveling for the holidays, and choosing when to fly is often just as important.
Google found departing on a Monday and returning on Tuesday or Wednesday could be 14% cheaper, with domestic travelers potentially saving as much as 20% by avoiding Sundays altogether.
For Christmas, departing closer to the holiday could also offer great savings, according to travel company KAYAK.
December 21 and December 22 offer some of the season’s best deals for domestic flights, and those flying international should aim for December 23 or even Christmas Eve.
Travelers returning immediately after Christmas should consider departing after December 27 to get the lowest price.
For Americans traveling for the holidays, waiting until the last minute could hurt your wallet in a big way.
With bookings in full swing, travelers may have little time to secure the best deal.