The festive season is upon us, and for many, that means planning holiday travels. If you’re a Brit looking to fly away from the hustle and bustle this Christmas and New Year period, you’re in for a treat! KAYAK‘s latest research shares incredible insights into the best days to travel for cheaper flights and avoid the busiest crowds. Cheapest days to fly 

Let’s dive into the details so we can save some pounds while making the most of our holidays.

An Overview of Travel Trends for 2024

Booking flights during the holiday season can feel like navigating through a bustling market—exciting yet chaotic. According to KAYAK…

• Fewer crowds = Cheaper flights: Many travelers overlook the benefits of flying on less popular days.
• Average savings: This year’s data indicates potential savings of up to 28% on flights if you time your departure just right.

KAYAK’s Travel Check-In: Christmas and New Year 2024 reveals average flight prices are 28% cheaper on 31^st December when flying outside of Europe

Let’s break it all down!

Key Findings from KAYAK’s Christmas and New Year Report

KAYAK has crunched numbers and analyzed flights from 14 December 2024 to 6 January 2025. Here’s what they discovered:

Savings on Flights Outside Europe

If you’re eyeing long-haul flights, the 31st of December stands out:

• Average flights on this day are 28% cheaper than other dates.
• Ideal for those who prefer a quieter airport experience.

The Busy Days to Avoid

Planning your escape? Avoid:

• 20th December: Predicted to be the busiest travel day, with fares soaring 24% higher than average.

The Best – Cheapest days to fly 

Long-Haul Flights (Outside Europe)

• Best Day: 31st December – Enjoy peaceful travel and major savings.
• Avoid: 20th December – Brace yourself for both crowds and higher prices!

European Flights

• Best Day: 16th December – A chance to save 22% on tickets!
• Avoid: 28th December – This date may put a strain on your wallet, with prices 21% higher on average.

Domestic Flights

• Best Day: 30th December – Fly home for 11% less!
• Avoid: 20th December – A substantial 19% increase in flight costs.

Best and Worst Value Dates to Depart from the UK

To ensure you’re making the best choices, here’s a quick overview:

The Biggest Price Drops for 2024 Compared to 2023

The holiday season might be pricey, but there’s good news! Prices are, on average, 3% cheaper this year. Here are the destinations with the most significant price drops:

Top 10 Biggest Price Drops

Optimal Booking Times for the Best Prices

Want to stretch your holiday budget even further? Here’s how to get the best deals:

• Domestic UK Flights: Book 2 months in advance for an 8% savings!
• European Flights: Make your booking 2 months ahead for a guaranteed 4% off.
• Long-haul Flights: Aim to book at the end of November for a 7% reduction.

Where to Travel for a Cheaper Winter Wonderland

Dreaming of a magical snowy escape? Rovaniemi, Finland, the home of Santa Claus, emerged as the jackpot this year. Currently priced at an average of £390, it’s 22% cheaper than last year!

Rachel Mumford, KAYAK UK Travel Expert, said

“While it can be delightful to travel during Christmas, flexibility with your dates can significantly impact your travel budget. Plus, if you’re still torn on where to go, KAYAK’s explore page can help you discover a destination that fits your wallet!”

Conclusion: Planning Your Holiday Journey

As the festive season approaches, we’re all on the lookout for ways to save a bit of cash. By choosing the right dates to fly, we can enjoy our holidays without the stress of overspending. So, let’s remember the insights shared by KAYAK and plan wisely! Whether you’re heading to the glistening snow of Rovaniemi or the festive markets in Prague, there’s a world of adventure waiting for you this holiday season. Cheapest days to fly 

Like this? "Sharing is caring!"