The December holiday season is one of the most exciting times to travel, with Christmas and New Year’s celebrations lighting up destinations around the world. However, this high demand also makes it one of the most expensive times to book flights. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies—and with help from MyFareDeal—you can still find affordable airfare for your holiday getaway. Here are some top tips to help you score the best deals on flights this December.
1. Book Early
December is a peak travel month, and airlines know it. To secure the best deals, start monitoring flight prices as early as September or October. Ideally, booking your December flights 1-2 months in advance can help you lock in a better fare before prices spike. However, booking too far in advance (6+ months) may not yield the best prices as airlines tend to release promotions closer to travel dates.
2. Be Flexible with Dates and Times
Flexibility is key to finding cheap flights. If possible, avoid traveling on peak holiday dates, such as December 22-26 and December 31-January 2, as these dates are typically the most expensive. Instead, consider flying a few days earlier or later to save money. Mid-week flights (Tuesday and Wednesday) are often cheaper than weekend flights. For December travel, early mornings and late-night flights also tend to be less expensive and less crowded.
3. Use Fare Comparison Tools and Set Price Alerts
Fare comparison sites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and MyFareDeal make it easy to compare prices across multiple airlines. You can also set up price alerts to track changes and get notified when prices drop. This way, you’ll be ready to book as soon as you spot a great deal.
4. Consider Nearby Airports
Larger cities often have multiple airports, and flying into or out of a nearby airport can sometimes save you a significant amount. For example, if you're flying to New York, check fares for JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. Smaller or alternate airports may have lower demand, and airlines often adjust fares accordingly.
5. Mix and Match Airlines
Booking two one-way tickets on different airlines instead of a round-trip can sometimes result in cheaper flights. With fare comparison tools, you can easily find affordable one-way options and create a custom itinerary that might save you money. Just be mindful of connection times if you're booking separate tickets.
6. Consider Budget Airlines for Short-Haul Flights
Low-cost airlines, like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest, often offer competitive fares for domestic and short-haul international routes. However, remember that these airlines usually have additional fees for baggage and seat selection, so factor in these costs when comparing prices.
7. Use Frequent Flyer Miles Points
December flights can be a great opportunity to redeem frequent flyer miles or credit card points. Because prices are higher, using points to cover the cost may offer better value. Check your points balance and consider redeeming them to offset your holiday travel expenses.
8. Look for Flash Sales and Holiday Promotions
Many airlines and travel sites offer holiday promotions or flash sales in the weeks leading up to December. These promotions are often announced through email newsletters or social media, so sign up for alerts from your favorite airlines or travel deal websites like MyFareDeal. Flash sales can provide incredible last-minute savings, so it pays to stay informed.
9. Avoid Checked Baggage
If you can pack light and stick to a carry-on, you’ll save on these additional costs. Consider layering your clothing or using packing hacks to maximize space in your carry-on and avoid fees altogether.
Travel agents often have access to exclusive deals and bulk fares that aren’t available to the public. Consulting a travel agent can save you time, and they may be able to offer insights on hidden savings for December flights.