Are Flights Expensive on Christmas Day?
Christmas day is a memorable occasion, and it is celebrated worldwide by millions of people of different faiths and cultures. It is a day of family gatherings, gift-giving, and traditional foods. However, for people who travel, it can be a bit stressful, primarily because it falls during the peak season.
For travelers who are booking flights, Christmas day can be an expensive time to travel. Airlines understand the emotions and needs of the traveling public and are geared towards making the most out of the Christmas season – their high-time for making profits. So, here’s what to know when booking flights on Christmas day.
Booking Early Saves You More Money
Whether you are traveling during the holiday season, booking early usually saves you more money. If you wait until the last minute, you may not have any available flights or may have to pay exorbitant prices to travel.
According to a survey by CheapAir, prices for Christmas flights tend to rise slowly as the day gets closer. From 90 to 30 days in advance, fares cost at least $100. If you wait until the last week to book your flights, the prices may increase by up to $500. Therefore, the earlier you book your Christmas day flight, the more you can save on travel expenses.
Check Alternate Airports
Compared to the popular airports, flights to alternate airports tend to be cheaper. For instance, if you are visiting New York, JFK may be the most popular airport; however, if you are flying during the holiday season, booking a flight to a nearby airport such as LaGuardia or Newark could save you a considerable amount on travel expenses. Be sure to factor in the transportation costs from the alternate airport to your destination, to ensure that you are still saving money.
Look for Deals and Discounts
Most airlines offer discounts and deals for travelers who book early or during the non-peak season. During Christmas, popular airlines like American Airlines, Delta, Jetblue, and United Airline offer holiday deals and promo codes to help reduce travelers’ travel expenses.
Aside from the airlines, travel agencies like Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz also offer discounts on flights during the Christmas season. By subscribing to their email lists, or following their pages on social media, you can stay updated on the best deals and discounts available.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
Traveling on Christmas day, or Boxing Day (December 26th) is usually more expensive than traveling before or after the holiday. By being flexible with your travel dates, you can save a considerable amount on flights. Consider traveling on the 22nd, 23rd, or 24th of December, or after Boxing Day, to take advantage of lower fares.
Conclusion
Overall, flights tend to be expensive on Christmas day, but by booking early, looking for deals and discounts, being flexible with your travel dates, and checking alternate airports, you can save money on your travel expenses. Traveling during the Christmas season can be daunting, but with proper planning and research, you can ensure that your expenses stay within your budget.