It’s no secret—Christmas and New Year’s travel is a bit like the Super Bowl of holiday flights: high demand, high prices, and high stakes for finding those elusive cheap fares. But guess what? Good Grief Travel is here to help you sleigh (pun intended) the holiday travel game this year. While 2024 will still see some classic holiday fare hikes, there are a few new twists that could save you big—especially if you’re dreaming of an international escape.
Ready to jingle your way to some serious savings? Let’s get into it.
Why Are Christmas Flights So Expensive?
Let’s be real: everyone and their dog wants to fly during the three-week stretch around Christmas and New Year’s. Starting around December 17th through January 7th, flights are priced high, simply because seats are limited, and airlines can’t just whip up new planes to meet the surge in demand.
If you’re not locked into traveling during the holiday, we recommend skipping this period entirely and jetting off in late November or early December. The deals during this time are absolute stocking stuffers compared to what you’ll face over the holidays!
But if you’re set on flying over Christmas, there’s still hope for your wallet—let’s talk strategy.
When Is Christmas in 2024?
Mark your calendars: Christmas Day is Wednesday, December 25th, and Christmas Eve is Tuesday, December 24th. Whether you’re making your escape before or after, timing is everything!
The Best Time to Book Christmas Flights
You know that magical “Goldilocks Window” we always talk about? For holiday travel, you want to be looking 5 to 10 months in advance. That’s right—book your Christmas flights in the summer, when most folks are still on the beach. If you start looking between February and July, you’ve got the best shot at snagging those coveted cheap seats.
That said, 2024 isn’t your typical year. We’re seeing more last-minute deals than ever before, thanks to a shift in supply and demand. So, if you didn’t get your act together this summer, don’t panic. Keep an eye out for last-minute (ish) fares this fall—they’re popping up more than Santa’s elves.
How Much Do Christmas Flights Cost?
If you’re flying from a major U.S. city, a great roundtrip fare to Europe over Christmas would be around $500. Heading to Asia? Expect to shell out a bit more, maybe $600+. And don’t forget, domestic flights can sometimes rival those international prices, so don’t assume that staying stateside will save you!
If you’re aiming for international travel, though, the earlier you book, the more you save. By October, you’re looking at upwards of $800 for a decent fare across the pond.
Last-Minute Hope for Christmas 2024?
Here’s the good news: Christmas 2024 could be your year to score some last-minute flight deals! Unlike most years, when booking late means paying through the nose, we’re seeing a little more wiggle room this season. Thanks to increased competition and more available seats, airlines are cutting last-minute fares to fill planes. So, if you’re holding out hope, you might just find a deal that won’t leave you broke come January.
Prepare for Travel Delays (Because They’re Coming)
Holiday travel without delays or cancellations? That’s like snow in the tropics—rare! If your flight gets changed, don’t forget you have options. You can either get a refund or ask to be rebooked on another flight, but it’s always easier with larger airlines that have partner agreements. Southwest, for example, doesn’t have those partnerships, so you’re more likely to be stuck.
Want to Save on Flights? Timing is Key
We’re all about flexibility at Good Grief Travel. To keep things budget-friendly, book your flights before those fare hikes kick in. Fares tend to jump at 21 days, 14 days, and 7 days before departure. So, if you’re holding out for a deal, try to book before these points for the best chances of scoring a lower fare.
And if you can, consider flying on Christmas Day itself or a few days earlier in the week. Less-desirable flight times, like red-eyes or early mornings, can also help shave off a few dollars.
Flexibility: The Gift that Keeps on Giving
If you’re willing to be flexible with your airports or destination, you can save big. For example, let’s say flights from Philadelphia to Seattle are going for $500. But flights from NYC to Seattle? Just $300. Tack on a cheap train or bus ticket, and you’re still saving hundreds by making a little detour.
Or maybe you’ve got your heart set on Amsterdam, but Brussels is way cheaper. Why not fly into Brussels and take a quick train up to Amsterdam? You’ll save big without sacrificing your dream European Christmas.
Where to Go for Christmas in 2024
Now, for the fun part—where should you go to escape (or fully embrace) the holiday season?
Germany: Bavaria’s Christmas markets are a holiday dream. From handmade crafts to hot mulled wine, you’ll be immersed in festive magic. Plus, New Year’s in Berlin is an absolute blast.
Leavenworth, Washington: This Bavarian-style village knows how to do Christmas right. It’s like stepping into a snow globe, complete with twinkling lights and nearby mountain adventures.
Mexico: Want to escape the cold? Mexico’s got you covered, whether it’s the bustling streets of Mexico City or an all-inclusive retreat in Cancún or Cabo.
Norway: Head to the Arctic for an unforgettable Christmas. Picture this: dog sledding, cozying up in a glass igloo, and watching the northern lights swirl overhead. It’s winter magic like you’ve never seen.
Colorado: Embrace the snowy season with skiing, snowshoeing, and sipping cocoa by a roaring fire. Aspen, Vail, and Beaver Creek are waiting for you.
Maldives: If luxury is what you crave, spend your holiday basking in the sun on the pristine beaches of the Maldives. It’s the ultimate tropical Christmas escape.
Travel Pro Tips from Good Grief Travel
- Fly Early or Late: Avoid the crowd by flying super early or late at night when others would rather be cozy at home.
- Check Alternate Airports: Prices can vary by airport, so widen your search. A short drive could mean big savings.
- Pack Your Patience: The holidays are peak travel time, so plan for longer lines and potential delays. And don’t forget your masks and sanitizer—airports will be packed!
So, whether you’re looking to embrace the magic of a European Christmas or escape to a tropical paradise, Good Grief Travel has you covered. The best gifts this holiday season? Cheap flights, great adventures, and unforgettable memories. Let’s make 2024 your most epic holiday season yet!
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