When Not to Book Holiday Travels 

Expedia reports that booking 25 days in advance can save travelers an average of 33%. Holiday travel can quickly become stressful if you don’t pick the right time to book.

Here are some  simple tips to avoid crowded days and expensive last-minute choices, helping travelers enjoy their holidays without overspending. As the Truely Travel eSIM team says, “Understanding the details of holiday travel can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.”

Traveling during the holiday season can be exciting but also stressful. Travel expert Alexandra Bowman from Truely Travel eSIM wisely says, “Understanding the details of holiday travel can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.” Here are some key times when you should think carefully before booking your holiday trips.

Avoid Peak Travel Days

Timing is key for holiday travel. The American Automobile Association (AAA) states that the busiest days are around Thanksgiving and Christmas. In 2023, over 54 million Americans traveled during Thanksgiving, especially on the Sunday after. Booking on these peak days can lead to higher costs and crowded airports. Instead, consider traveling on off-peak days like Christmas Day or the day after New Year’s to save money and stress.

Avoid Last-Minute Bookings

Waiting until the last minute to book is another mistake. Many believe they can find great deals, but this often results in higher prices. The Expedia 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report shows that booking 25 days in advance can save travelers an average of 33%. For example, a flight from New York to Los Angeles might cost $300 if booked three months ahead but could rise to $500 if booked a week before.

Know Your Destination’s Peak Season

Understanding the peak season for your destination is crucial. Ski resorts during the holidays usually have higher prices and larger crowds, while places like Hawaii may be cheaper if visited a few weeks before Christmas.

Alternatives for Savvy Travelers

To avoid high costs and crowds, consider:

  • Traveling on the holiday itself: Flights on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve are often cheaper and less crowded.
  • Booking in advance: Reserving flights and accommodations months ahead can secure better rates.
  • Choosing off-peak days: Flying mid-week usually leads to lower fares and fewer people.
  • Exploring less popular destinations: Visiting lesser-known places can save money and reduce crowds.

Holiday travel impacts both your budget and your experience. Crowded destinations can make your trip stressful, turning relaxation into a hassle. Planning or choosing different dates can help keep the holiday spirit alive.

When planning your next holiday, think about your travel dates as much as your destination. The right timing can turn a hectic journey into a peaceful escape. Consider if flying on a less busy day might lead to a quieter, more enjoyable experience before you hit “book”.
Credit:  https://truely.com

GDPR Cookie Consent with Real Cookie Banner