The 2024 holiday season is expected to be both busy and expensive for air travel. However, the popular travel app, Going, offers insightful advice for those looking to save on holiday airfare and maximize holiday cheer. According to Going’s founder, Scott Keyes, Thanksgiving can be an ideal time for international travel, as increased domestic demand often leads to better deals abroad. Keep reading for holiday budgeting tips, including the cheapest days to fly in 2024 and how to avoid expensive travel dates.
Strategic Planning for Cost-Effective Travel
To save on holiday airfare, it’s crucial to know which days to avoid. According to Going, the travel app revolutionizing budget travel, here are the dates to steer clear of:
- Thanksgiving: Tuesday and Wednesday before the holiday
- Christmas: Sunday and Monday leading up to December 25th
- Post-Thanksgiving Sunday: Historically the busiest travel day of the year
However, there’s a silver lining for those seeking airfare savings during holidays. Flying on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day can cut costs by up to 25% while returning on New Year’s Eve (December 31st) not only saves money but also offers less crowded airports compared to New Year’s Day.
Keyes assures, “This holiday season, Going members can save anywhere from 40 percent to 90 percent on flights, provided they have the right tools.” He advises travelers on the best time to book holiday flights, recommending booking at least 21 days in advance. Travelers should book the next “reasonable” fare they find and also monitor prices for any drops, taking advantage of airlines’ no-change fee policies if needed.
Booking Strategies and Tools for Savings
To maximize savings, travelers should leverage various holiday season flight tips and tools:
- Book early: Secure flights at least 21 days before your travel date
- Be flexible with dates: Flying on holidays like Christmas Eve or Christmas Day can save you up to 25%.
- Monitor prices: Even after booking, keep an eye on fares. Many airlines now have no-change fee policies, allowing you to rebook if prices drop.
- Use travel apps: Tools like Going or OneAir can help members save 40% to 90% by sending timely alerts and recommendations.
- Consider alternative destinations: Traveling internationally during Thanksgiving may offer substantial savings compared to domestic flights.
The key takeaway is that with careful planning and the right tools, travelers can enjoy a budget-friendly holiday season. By avoiding peak travel days, being open to holiday flights, and leveraging travel apps, navigating the busy 2024 holiday season can be both affordable and stress-free.
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