Best Days to Book Flights for Christmas 2025
Planning your holiday trip? You’re not alone — millions of travelers are looking for the best deals on Christmas 2025 flights. Airfare prices during December can skyrocket, but with smart timing and the right booking strategy, you can save hundreds.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly when to buy flight tickets for Christmas 2025, how to find hidden deals, and which days to avoid for maximum savings.
Why Timing Matters for Christmas Flights
Airlines know when people want to travel — and they adjust prices accordingly. Christmas and New Year’s are peak travel times, meaning demand drives up prices fast.
However, studies from Expedia and Google Flights show that strategic timing can save up to 20–30% on holiday airfare.
Best Days to Book Flights for Christmas 2025
1️⃣ Book Between September 15 and November 5
Historically, the best window to book Christmas flights is around 60–90 days before departure. Booking too early (before August) or too late (after mid-November) can cost you more.
- ✈️ Cheapest booking window: Sept 15 – Nov 5, 2025
- 💰 Average savings: 18% compared to last-minute bookings
2️⃣ Best Days of the Week to Book
Airfare trends show that Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the cheapest days to book. Prices tend to rise again by Friday as demand increases for weekend shoppers.
3️⃣ Ideal Days to Fly
- 🗓️ Best outbound flights: Dec 17–19 (mid-week before Christmas rush)
- 🎁 Best return flights: Dec 26–28 or Jan 2–3
- 🚫 Worst days to fly: Dec 20–24 (highest fares and crowded airports)
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
According to 2024 travel data, booking around **60–80 days in advance** yields the lowest average fares for U.S. domestic flights and around **100 days** for international destinations.
For Christmas 2025, that means booking between mid-September and early November gives you the best shot at savings — and seat availability.
Tips to Find Cheap Flights During the Holidays
- 💡 Use fare trackers like Google Flights and Skyscanner
- 💳 Set up price alerts to catch fare drops
- ✈️ Consider nearby airports (e.g., Oakland instead of San Francisco)
- 🌙 Fly overnight or early morning for lower fares
- 🎫 Book one-way tickets if they’re cheaper than round trips
Average Christmas Airfare Prices (2025 Estimate)
| Route Type | Average Price (USD) | Best Booking Time |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Domestic | $380–$450 | 60–70 days before |
| North America – Europe | $850–$1,050 | 80–100 days before |
| U.S. – Asia | $1,000–$1,400 | 90–120 days before |
Checklist Before You Book
- ✅ Clear browser cookies before searching flights
- ✅ Compare flexible dates (+/- 2 days)
- ✅ Check baggage fees and seat selection costs
- ✅ Consider travel insurance for weather delays
Conclusion: Plan Early, Travel Smart
Finding affordable Christmas flights isn’t about luck — it’s about timing. By booking in the fall and choosing mid-week travel days, you can enjoy the holidays without overpaying for tickets.
In 2025, airfare trends reward those who plan early. Use flight trackers, compare platforms, and book strategically for a stress-free Christmas journey.
FAQ
1. How far in advance should I book for Christmas 2025?
Book 60–90 days before your travel date — ideally between mid-September and early November 2025.
2. Which days are the cheapest to fly?
Flying mid-week (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) typically offers the lowest fares during the holidays.
3. Do flights get cheaper closer to Christmas?
No — prices rise sharply after mid-November, and last-minute tickets can cost double the average fare.
- 📌 Related: How to Book Flights During Peak Holiday Seasons
- 📌 Related: Last-Minute Christmas Flights 2025: How to Find Cheap Deals Fast