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| people travel on the same day 24 and 25 |
The holidays are a magical time to travel and share unforgettable moments with family and friends. However, we know that they can also be one of the most expensive times to fly and book accommodation due to high demand. Luckily, there are strategies and hacks that can help you get the best prices and save on your Christmas trips! In this article, I will guide you step by step to make your next Christmas trip affordable and smartly planned.
December 22, 23, and 24 (before Christmas).
December 26, 27, and 28 (after Christmas).
January 1 and 2 (after New Year's).
On the other hand, the cheapest days are usually:
Days around December 20.
December 25 (Christmas).
December 31 and January 1 (depending on the destination).
Hack:
Look for flights that leave very early in the morning or late at night, as they tend to be less popular and cheaper. If you can extend your trip and fly on less popular dates, the savings will be considerable.
Tuesday and Wednesday:
Many airlines release deals and update their fares on Tuesday afternoons, making Wednesdays also good days to find discounted prices.
Sunday:
Although not as cheap as Tuesday, Sunday is also often a good day to search for flights, especially if you plan ahead.
Hack:
Search during less busy times, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid inflated prices due to high user demand.
Hack 1:
Look for flights to secondary airports close to your main destination. For example, if you're flying to New York, consider airports like Newark or JFK.
Hack 2:
Use tools like Kiwi.com or AirWander to find routes with stopovers that will reduce the price. While it may mean a longer trip, the savings can be worth it.
Hack:
Book with points instead of cash on flights and hotels with high rates. You can also combine miles and cash for better discounts.
Hack:
Look into options like Airbnb, Vrbo, or even house-share accommodations if you're traveling in a group. You can also opt for hostels or guesthouses instead of traditional hotels.
Hack:
Pack light to avoid paying for extra baggage. Check each airline's policies and consider carry-on only to save money.
Hack:
Use apps like LastMinute.com or HotelTonight to find discounts on unbooked flights and accommodations. However, keep in mind that this involves risks and does not always guarantee the lowest prices.
Hack:
Check sites like Expedia, Kayak, or Travelocity to compare package prices. Plus, some packages include extras like car rentals or sightseeing activities.
1. The key is planning ahead
The first surefire trick is to plan ahead. According to travel experts, airfares and accommodations start to rise significantly 30 to 60 days before Christmas. If you can plan your trip three to four months in advance, you'll have access to better prices and more options. Hack: Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to monitor flight fares months in advance. You can turn on price alerts to get notified when there are deals or significant price changes.2. Flexibility in dates: the great ally of savings
Being flexible with your travel dates can make a big difference in price. During the Christmas holidays, the most expensive days to fly are usually:December 22, 23, and 24 (before Christmas).
December 26, 27, and 28 (after Christmas).
January 1 and 2 (after New Year's).
On the other hand, the cheapest days are usually:
Days around December 20.
December 25 (Christmas).
December 31 and January 1 (depending on the destination).
Hack:
Look for flights that leave very early in the morning or late at night, as they tend to be less popular and cheaper. If you can extend your trip and fly on less popular dates, the savings will be considerable.
3. Book flights and accommodation on the right days
Not all days of the week are created equal when it comes to searching for and purchasing flights or accommodation. According to statistics, the best days to book are:Tuesday and Wednesday:
Many airlines release deals and update their fares on Tuesday afternoons, making Wednesdays also good days to find discounted prices.
Sunday:
Although not as cheap as Tuesday, Sunday is also often a good day to search for flights, especially if you plan ahead.
Hack:
Search during less busy times, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid inflated prices due to high user demand.
4. Be creative with destinations and routes
If you're willing to explore alternatives, flights to less-traveled destinations or with stopovers can be significantly cheaper.Hack 1:
Look for flights to secondary airports close to your main destination. For example, if you're flying to New York, consider airports like Newark or JFK.
Hack 2:
Use tools like Kiwi.com or AirWander to find routes with stopovers that will reduce the price. While it may mean a longer trip, the savings can be worth it.
5. Get hidden deals with airlines and travel agencies
- Hack:
Book tickets directly from airlines. While search engines are helpful, some airlines offer lower prices on their own websites or apps. You can also sign up for their newsletters to receive exclusive deals.
Another option is to sign up for fare alert services like Scott’s Cheap Flights or Hopper, which track cheap flights and notify you of the best deals.
6. Take advantage of rewards and miles programs
If you travel frequently or have rewards credit cards, now is the perfect time to use those accumulated points or miles. Many airlines and hotel chains offer promotions during the holiday season.Hack:
Book with points instead of cash on flights and hotels with high rates. You can also combine miles and cash for better discounts.
7. Consider accommodation alternatives
Hotels often raise their prices during the holiday season. But don't worry, there are alternatives!Hack:
Look into options like Airbnb, Vrbo, or even house-share accommodations if you're traveling in a group. You can also opt for hostels or guesthouses instead of traditional hotels.
8. Avoid unnecessary expenses
Hidden fees and extras can drive up the cost of your trip, especially with budget airlines.Hack:
Pack light to avoid paying for extra baggage. Check each airline's policies and consider carry-on only to save money.
9. Viajes de última hora: la excepción a la regla
While planning ahead is often the best option, last-minute deals can be an alternative for those who are spontaneous and flexible.Hack:
Use apps like LastMinute.com or HotelTonight to find discounts on unbooked flights and accommodations. However, keep in mind that this involves risks and does not always guarantee the lowest prices.
10. Support travel packages
Often, packages that include flights and accommodations offer discounts that you won't get by booking separately.Hack:
Check sites like Expedia, Kayak, or Travelocity to compare package prices. Plus, some packages include extras like car rentals or sightseeing activities.
Conclusion
Getting the best prices for holiday travel requires planning, flexibility, and a little creativity. By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank. Remember, every euro you save on transportation and accommodation can be used to make your holiday experience even more special.
Now it's your turn! What are your tips for saving on holiday travel? Leave us your comments and share them with our community. Happy holidays and safe travels! 🎅✨
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