Flight prices jump $30 daily as holiday season approaches, experts say book now

For travelers looking to book flights for the upcoming holiday season, timing is crucial to secure the best deals, according to data from travel experts. While the ideal window to purchase tickets has already passed, acting now can still help avoid peak pricing.

Analysis by travel app Hopper found the lowest fares were available through the first two weeks of October. "From here on out, flights are almost certainly going to get more expensive," a Hopper expert told Thrillist. Waiting further could mean paying a premium as demand rises closer to the holidays.

Hopper's data shows airfares spike 5-10% each day, up to $30 more per ticket, in the final two weeks before Thanksgiving as remaining seats get booked up. The company's 2024 Holiday Hacks report states, "Prices will be the lowest through the first two weeks of October, before rising rapidly as the holiday approaches."

For specific booking windows, travel site Kayak recommends booking 1-2 months in advance for domestic Thanksgiving flights, 2-3 months for international Thanksgiving travel, 2-3.5 months ahead for domestic December holiday flights, and 1-2 months out for international flights around Christmas and New Year's.

While Thanksgiving sparks a surge in domestic travel costs, Google Flights data indicates it can be an opportune time for international bookings, particularly to Europe when demand is lower.

Flexibility on travel dates is also advised. Hopper notes those departing the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and returning the Tuesday after could save over $160 per ticket compared to more popular Sunday return flights.

Overall, experts emphasize booking sooner rather than waiting for potential last-minute deals as airlines manage limited inventory amid robust holiday demand this year.