How to Save Big on Holiday Flights

Now that we’re in the midst of the holiday season, you may have traveling plans. But you don’t have to let the high cost of air fair ruin your holiday plans – there are plenty of ways to save. (And don’t forget to see how you can save on your hotel stay, too.) So take heed of these tips for saving on your holiday flights, and then sit back and -ahem- enjoy the ride.

How to Save Big on Holiday Flights

Buy and fly on Tuesdays. Keep an eye on your calendar: buying and flying on Tuesdays (and sometimes Wednesdays) can save you $100 or more each way! Recently, I looked at a flight from Phoenix to St. Louis, and the price difference was $129 between a Tuesday and a Friday. Talk about huge savings! If you can be flexible on the days you fly, you can save quite a bit of cash.

Use an airline card. Are you a frequent flier? You can use your airline points to book flights for free.

Book early. While flights aren’t always cheaper when you book them early, many times you’ll get the best prices if you book by mid November for your Christmas and New Year’s flights. If you book a flight and the price goes down, contact the airline. Many will give you a rebate in travel credits if your flight’s price drops. Southwest is especially good about this.

Bundle up, baby! If you get stuck booking your travel at the last minute, check out bundled trips through travel agencies. Many hotel+flight bundles will cost less than just the flight itself. Be sure to consider extra fees that the agency may charge before determining if their price is truly the lowest.

Be prepared. You’ll save money by flying during off-peak times, and sometimes that means weird hours or Red Eyes. Be prepared to flex a little to save a lot.

Pack light. With outrageous baggage fees, packing light is common sense nowadays. However, that is easier said than done! If you’re traveling for a week or more, just pack a few outfits and plan to find a laundromat (or relative’s washer!) to wash your clothes. (Actually, I’ve been known to toss in a travel size Tide and wash clothes in the sink, when needed.) Suitcase still tight? Consider ditching the extra toiletries and buying travel sizes once you arrive at your destination.

Dare to compare. Check all of the major airlines as well as the major travel sites before purchasing your flights. Be sure to look around at other airports, too. Sometimes, flying in and out of smaller airports can save you time – and money!

Be patient. Consider choosing a flight with a long layover. Not only are these flights usually cheaper, they can be an adventure all on their own! On the other hand, if you’re traveling with a toddler or two, a layover might not be worth saving $80.

Pack snacks. Instead of paying $8 for crackers on your flight, pack snacks on your carry-on. This will save you quite a bit, especially if you’re traveling with children.