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11 Quick Holiday Travel Tips
Plus: Charge Your Apple Watch from a Fellow Parent
Dollar Dad
October 16, 2024
In partnership with
Read time: 3 minutes
Welcome Back, Fellow Parent
The holiday season is supposed to be about family, fun, and making memories—but the rising costs of holiday travel can quickly turn joy into stress.
I personally hate traveling during the holidays. It’s crazy busy and prices are inflated. Before becoming a parent, I’d always try and travel during the off-seasons. But now we’re at the whim of school schedules.
Between higher fuel prices and increased demand, it feels like everyone is competing for the same flights and hotel rooms. If you're like most families, you're already juggling a dozen things—gifts, school events, end-of-year work deadlines—and travel expenses are just one more thing to worry about.
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But here’s the good news: with a few smart moves, you can still make holiday travel affordable and even enjoyable.
These quick, practical tips will help you navigate the chaos without draining your wallet.
Book Early: According to Google, plan a bit further ahead if you’re traveling domestically for Christmas. Prices have been lowest 58 days before departure, and the low price range is 36-72 days out — so the best time to book cheap Christmas flights is the back half of October. For last minute deals, set up alerts on travel apps like Hopper or Skyscanner, which notify you when prices dip.
Use Mileage Programs and Credit Card Points: Don’t let your points go to waste. Checkpoint transfer options and pool points with family members to maximize savings.
Travel on Off-Peak Days: Avoid peak days before Thanksgiving or Christmas. Traveling on the holiday itself or midweek can save you a lot. Consider smaller, regional airports for cheaper fares.
Pack Light to Avoid Fees: Stick to carry-ons to dodge checked bag fees ($35-$50 per bag). Wear bulky items on the plane and maximize personal items.
Plan Your Drive Smartly: Use gas apps like GasBuddy to find cheaper fuel and leave early to avoid traffic. Carpool if you can and pick rest stops with amenities for the kids.
Consider Alternative Accommodations: Look into Airbnb, Vrbo, or even home exchange options to save on accommodations. Larger vacation rentals can be more affordable for extended families.
Shop for Flights and Hotels in Incognito Mode: Use incognito mode when searching for flights to avoid price hikes. Clear cookies or use different devices to compare fares.
Explore Nearby Hidden Gems: Consider day trips or short drives to nearby places instead of major destinations. It saves money and can still create memorable experiences.
Use Local Transit & Cook Meals: Skip the rental car and opt for public transit. Do a grocery run on arrival to save on meals—especially breakfast and snacks.
Bundle Travel Packages: Use sites like Expedia or Costco Travel to bundle your flight, hotel, and car rental for cheaper deals.
Lean on Social Media for Last-Minute Deals: Follow airlines and booking sites on social media for flash sales. Join travel groups for family-friendly discounts and tips.
Holiday travel can be affordable with a bit of planning. By using these tips, you can reduce stress, cut costs, and make the most of your time with family.
Remember, it’s not about how much you spend, but the memories you create along the way. For more details, check out the full article below.
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