Buying airline tickets for holiday travel? Expect sticker shock
Nov 7, 2023, 10:00 AM
Travelers tag their bags at a Southwest Airlines ticket counter during the busy Christmas holiday travel season at Orlando International Airport on Dec. 28, 2022 in Orlando, Fla. Photo credit: Paul Hennessy/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
SALT LAKE CITY — If you are planning on holiday travel this year but have not purchased airline tickets yet, expect to pay a premium.
We are approaching the busiest travel time of the year. Millions of Americans said they are planning on holiday travel. Many will be flying to spend time with loved ones.
Morris Columbus Travel Agent Joy Sanders said tickets are still available, however, the best time to buy Christmas airline tickets has passed.
“[Buy tickets] when they first come out, 10 months in advance,” said Sanders.
Planning holiday travel
According to travel agents, big crowds are expected this season. The best days to travel and avoid crowds are in the first weeks of December, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Eve.
“It’s not too late [to buy tickets]. They are more expensive now,” said Sanders.
High demand and inflation have led to higher-than-usual airline ticket prices.
Sanders advised travelers to book vacations as far in advance as they can, especially for the holidays. Additionally, it is good to be flexible and have a backup plan just in case your flight is delayed or canceled.
Related: 48% of Americans planning to travel over the holidays
