Experts Advise Early Monitoring of Holiday Flight Prices Amidst Soaring Fares

As the 2023 holiday season approaches, travel experts are warning potential travelers to keep a close eye on flight prices now, while refraining from immediate bookings. Recent data from travel app Hopper indicates that airline prices for Christmas travel are already soaring, with fares tracking as high as last year. According to Hayley Berg, lead economist at Hopper, prices are presently 20% higher than pre-pandemic holiday fares during the same period.

Berg urges travelers to initiate price tracking early, a practice sometimes overlooked during mid-summer. She emphasized that it’s “the perfect time to start planning your trips home or a vacation over the holidays.” However, despite the urgency to monitor fares, she cautions against making immediate bookings due to the predicted price volatility over the next two to three months, with prices likely to fluctuate multiple times a day.

According to Hopper’s data, fares for holiday travel are expected to remain high throughout the summer, gradually declining into the “shoulder season” during September and October. This period is considered the optimal time for flight bookings as prices are usually $100 cheaper compared to mid-summer fares.

Clint Henderson, managing editor of travel website The Points Guy, echoes the advice, stressing the importance of early research for holiday travelers. He suggests that those planning domestic trips during the holidays should be ready to seize a deal if they come across one.

For international holiday trips, Henderson advises booking or, at the very least, initiating price tracking from now until September. While demand for holiday travel is anticipated to be significant, Henderson notes that airlines no longer wield the same pricing power they had a year ago. With airlines expanding their capacities by offering more seats for sale, fares may see a slight reduction.

Despite these changes, holiday travelers should not expect significant discounts on fares, as peak holiday dates typically command higher prices than normal.

The travel industry has been closely monitoring consumer behavior amid the ongoing recovery from the pandemic’s impact. Airlines are taking strategic steps to cater to holiday demand while also adjusting pricing and capacity. Travelers are advised to stay informed about potential deals, fluctuations, and capacity changes to secure the best possible options for their holiday plans.

With uncertainties still surrounding the travel landscape, early preparation and cautious monitoring of flight prices can help travelers navigate the upcoming holiday season and ensure a smoother and more cost-effective journey to their desired destinations.