Holiday Travel Hacks: 7 Tips to Save Big

Between holiday shopping, endless cooking, office parties, and juggling family commitments, the holiday season can feel like a whirlwind. Add travel to the mix, and sticking to a budget can seem impossible. 

But taking a trip doesn't have to be stressful — or expensive. 

1. Book strategically 

Book early, yes, because prices will only go up, but select your travel dates carefully.

Conventional wisdom stresses the importance of booking flights early to secure the best deals, but there’s a little more to it than that. In reality, your departure and return dates matter more than when you purchase your tickets. 

For example, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is one of the most popular travel dates of the year. It’s a predictable pattern, so airfare and hotel prices will always be higher on that day compared to any other date in November — even if you’re booking months in advance. 

Book early, yes, because prices will only go up, but select your travel dates carefully. 

2. Stay flexible 

Flexibility is key when it comes to budget travel. Once you’re ready to purchase tickets, set price alerts on fare comparison websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner to track price fluctuations. This way, you’ll be notified if a deal comes up, allowing you to book at the optimal time without constantly checking prices. 

If your travel dates are set, you can still save by being flexible in other ways. For example, if you usually fly out of a regional airport, calculate how much you might save by driving to the closest major hub (remember to factor in gas and parking fees). In some cases, the savings might be a lot more than you’d think. 

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3. Drive instead of fly 

Depending on where you’re headed, a road trip might be the cheaper option. Day trips will almost always save you money on airfare and baggage fees, and you’ll have the freedom to depart whenever you’d like. 

If it takes more than a day to reach your destination, be sure to factor in overnight accommodation and extra food costs. Even with these expenses, however, driving can still be more affordable — especially if you’re traveling with others and can split the costs. Plus, you get to enjoy the flexibility of stopping along the way and making the journey part of the adventure! 

4. Use loyalty points or miles 

If you’ve accumulated frequent flyer miles, credit card points, or hotel loyalty rewards, the holiday season is a perfect time to cash them in. These points can help offset the cost of flights, accommodations, or even rental cars, significantly lowering your travel expenses. 

Don’t forget to check your account balances early, as some points or miles may expire, and availability for holiday travel can be limited. Be strategic about when and how you use them, and you could save big on your trip without dipping into your budget. 

5. Pack light 

Airline baggage fees can quickly add up, but packing light isn’t just for air travel — it’s beneficial if you’re driving, too. A lighter load means better fuel efficiency, which can help you save on gas, especially for longer trips. Plus, it makes it easier to organize your vehicle and leaves more room for comfort or any souvenirs (or gifts!) you might pick up along the way. If you are flying, bringing a carry-on instead of a checked bag can save you money and time at baggage claim. 

Whether you’re driving or flying, packing versatile clothing and travel-sized essentials will help you keep your bags light and your trip stress-free. 

6. Travel with friends or family 

Traveling as a group can significantly cut down on expenses and add a layer of fun to the journey. 

For example, you might split the cost of a vacation rental instead of booking multiple hotel rooms. When driving, everyone can chip in for gas, snacks, and parking fees. Carpooling also means fewer vehicles on the road, which could be both eco-friendly and economical. 

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7. Look for package deals 

Booking everything separately can sometimes add up, but many travel websites offer package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and even rental cars at a discount. These packages could save you a significant amount compared to booking each element of your trip individually. 

Before booking, compare prices for packages on sites like Expedia, Priceline, or Orbitz, and see if bundling your travel plans lowers the overall cost. Just be sure to read the fine print and understand the cancellation policies, as package deals may have more restrictions than booking items separately. 

Take the stress out of holiday travel 

Holiday travel doesn’t have to mean overspending or last-minute panic. With a little planning, flexibility, and smart strategies like splitting costs and packing light, you could enjoy a smooth and affordable trip while focusing on what truly matters — spending time with the people you care about most.