Google Flights Reveals Best Times to Book Holiday Travel

Google Flights has analyzed five years of data to help travelers find the best times to book holiday airfare in the US. For Thanksgiving flights, the lowest fares are expected to appear 34 days before departure, with a recommended booking window of 21 to 57 days prior. Christmas travel fares are predicted to be cheapest 56 days out, with the optimal range being 33 to 67 days before departure.

The analysis also suggests booking domestic flights 39 days in advance (within a 22- to 57-day window) and international flights 89 days ahead (50 to 133 days for the best prices). European travel fares are lowest when booked 90 days out, while flights to Mexican and Caribbean destinations should be secured 43 days before departure.

Google Flights now offers personalized predictions for specific ticket purchases, which may differ from the broader trends. The data also highlights that flying on a Monday and returning on a Tuesday or Wednesday can save about 14% compared to weekend flights, with even greater savings domestically. Opting for connecting flights can avoid the average 20% premium on nonstop flights, though this increases the risk of delays or cancellations.

Trending destinations for Thanksgiving include warmer locations like Hilo, HI, and Punta Gorda, FL, while Christmas and New Year’s travelers seem inclined toward international destinations like Athens, Greece, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, likely to escape winter weather.