Dont Panic: Theres Still Time to Book Your 2025 Holiday Travel

As we transition from Labor Day into fall, the winter holiday season is rapidly approaching. A recent survey conducted by TPG in partnership with The Harris Poll reveals that many Americans feel they’ve missed the ideal window for booking holiday travel. However, there’s good news on the horizon.

The optimal time to book flights for Thanksgiving is from late September through the end of October. For Christmas travel, aim to secure your tickets around Halloween and no later than mid-November to snag the best deals.

When to Book Your Flights

For domestic flights, the sweet spot for booking is typically one to two months in advance. Interestingly, this year’s survey highlights an increase in holiday travel plans among Americans compared to last year. Approximately 65% of respondents indicated they plan to travel during the holiday season, a notable rise from 51% in 2024.

Younger generations, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are leading the charge, with a significant number planning international trips this holiday season compared to older generations. Among holiday travelers, 83% are visiting family and friends, while 55% are taking vacations, mirroring trends from the previous year.

Travel Preferences and Trends

This year, 60% of holiday travelers plan to fly to their destinations, with 50% opting for domestic flights and 26% planning international travel. The enthusiasm for international trips is particularly pronounced among younger travelers, with 34% of Gen Z and millennials indicating they will fly internationally, compared to just 18% of Gen X and 16% of baby boomers.

Despite the common advice to wait for lower prices before booking, over half of holiday travelers (54%) have already started making arrangements, although only 31% have finalized all their plans. Among those who have begun booking, an impressive 92% reported securing savings, with hotel stays leading the list at 51%, followed by flight savings (42%) and vacation rentals (34%).

Current Pricing Insights

While it may seem like prices are steep this year, with a reported 7% increase for both Thanksgiving and Christmas flights compared to last year, experts anticipate price drops as we approach the best booking windows. Setting up price alerts through tools like Google Flights can help you monitor fare changes effectively.

Optimizing Your Travel Rewards

For those with travel rewards points, this season presents an excellent opportunity for redemption. The survey indicates that 88% of holiday travelers with rewards plan to use them, with a greater inclination toward hotels (54%) than flights (32%). Additionally, 62% of travelers intend to redeem more rewards this year than in the previous holiday season.

Interestingly, 80% of holiday travelers are enrolled in travel rewards programs, a slight increase from last year. Price considerations are paramount for many, with 68% prioritizing cost over loyalty to specific hotels or airlines during their holiday travels.

Addressing Traveler Concerns

As with any travel season, concerns abound. Weather delays are the top worry for 51% of travelers, a significant jump from 43% last year. Other common concerns include high traveler volumes (47%), airline delays and cancellations (32%), lost luggage (26%), and the challenges of traveling with gifts (18%).

Final Thoughts and Travel Tips

While many feel they’ve missed the boat on booking holiday travel, it’s important to remember that there’s still time to secure your plans. If you find a good flight deal, don’t hesitate to book it. The holiday season can be unpredictable, but with the right strategies in place, you can navigate it successfully.

For those considering using points and miles for holiday travel, it’s a smart move, particularly in a year where cash prices are higher. The key is to stay informed, plan ahead, and take advantage of the tools available to you.

TPG is committed to providing you with the best tips and tricks for a seamless holiday travel experience. Whether you’re traveling for family gatherings or planning a vacation, being prepared can make all the difference. Happy travels!