Flying home – or elsewhere– around the holidays is always a tough situation. Between the massive lines, crowds, and unpredictable weather—you never know what to expect. On top of that, flying during holiday months is a lot more expensive than any other time of year, making it that much more of a drag. (P.S.: If you haven’t bought your ticket yet, now would be a good time.) Though we can’t predict future forecasts and cranky passengers, we can help you save money. Below, our tips on how to make your wallet survive – cue screams of horror – holiday travel.
Book Now
If you care about logistics like when you fly, where you sit, and whether it’s connecting or nonstop, book now. Seriously. Otherwise, your best options will be sold out before you know it and you’ll be stuck in a middle seat, right by the overwhelmingly smelly bathroom. If you are looking to book now, and realize that the prices are already soaring, it doesn’t hurt to check back in a couple of weeks to see what seats and offers airlines have disposed of in their “bargain bin.”
Days And Airports Matter
Flying on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Years Eve – not before or after – is going to save you a lot of money. It might seem like an inconvenience, but depending on the time of the flight, it could actually work to your benefit. Similarly, look around at different airports and what they’re offering: flying to Miami from JFK might be a lot costlier than let’s say, Newark International or LaGuardia.
Tuesday Shmoosday
Has anyone ever told you that buying tickets on a Tuesday is cheaper than any other day? Well, we’re here to tell you: They were wrong—sorry! Airlines can lower fares on any day of the week, so don’t just search for flights on Tuesdays. Try everyday.
Deals And Packages
Certain airlines put their best offers on their own sites, apart from Kayak, Expedia, Orbitz, etc.; search beforehand to make sure you’re purchasing the best possible option. And while we’re on the subject: Always investigate package deals. And then compare.
Where To Go…
If you aren’t visiting your family and just want a holiday getaway, go somewhere that is housing a lot of airline competition like Las Vegas or Chicago. If you’re feeling really adventurous, booking a flight overseas will be a relative bargain when compared to domestic charges during the holidays. So don’t be afraid to stretch out over the transatlantic or Pacific and spend your first day of the new year…well, anywhere!
