Flying Costs Skyrocket for Thanksgiving and Christmas in the U.S.: Key Dates to Avoid

This holiday season, those flying during Thanksgiving and Christmas in the United States will face significantly higher prices, with airline tickets hitting decade-high levels and increases up to 31% compared to 2025.

According to Hopper's 2026 Seasonal Travel Index, a round-trip domestic ticket for Thanksgiving will average $402, which is about $95 more than last year.

For Christmas, the average price rises to $452 for a round trip, marking a 23% year-over-year increase, translating to approximately $85 more per ticket.

The surge in prices comes amid a year marked by a sharp rise in aviation fuel costs following the conflict with Iran. Hopper reports that fuel prices jumped from $2.41 to $4.14 per gallon in just over two months, an increase of 74%.

Brent crude oil, which was around $65 per barrel before the hostilities, surpassed $100 in September. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has estimated that fuel costs could be about 70% higher than in 2025, adding roughly $10 billion to airline expenses.

Avoiding the Most Expensive Travel Days

Choosing the right travel dates can save travelers hundreds of dollars.

For Thanksgiving travelers, Sunday, November 29, is projected to be the most expensive day to return, with average fares reaching $604.

Delaying the return trip to Monday or Tuesday could cut costs to about $350, potentially saving around $250.

For departure, Hopper highlights Monday, November 23, as one of the cheapest options, with fares approximately $370.

Navigating Christmas Travel Costs

During the Christmas holiday, the highest prices are expected between Friday, December 18, and Sunday, December 20, with tickets nearing $500.

Those with flexible schedules might find better deals by traveling on the Monday or Tuesday before Christmas, with fares around $440.

Pay attention to return dates as well. Sunday, December 27, presents fares about 20% higher, while another sharp increase is expected after New Year's Day: fares could surpass $560 on January 2, 2027.

Escalating Costs for International Flights

International travelers are not exempt from these price hikes.

For Christmas, flights to Mexico and Central America have increased by 23% compared to last year, while fares to Europe have risen by 15%.

In contrast, long-haul flights to Africa, Asia, and Oceania remain at similar or slightly lower prices than observed in 2025.

Within the United States, popular destinations for both holidays include New York, Miami, and Orlando. Miami and Orlando are particularly significant for Florida travelers during these high-demand weeks.

Internationally, Tokyo, London, and Paris are among the most sought-after destinations for Thanksgiving, while Bangkok and Mexico City are favorites for Christmas.

Booking Tips for Holiday Travel

Hopper advises booking flights and hotels before Halloween for better rates, as prices typically rise closer to the holidays.

Hotel prices are less predictable than flights. For Thanksgiving, the average rate is around $170 per night, similar to 2025. For Christmas, it reaches $197, an 18% increase from last year.

The report also suggests flying early to minimize issues during these busy airport days. Flights departing after 9:00 a.m. are about twice as likely to experience delays compared to those scheduled between 5:00 and 8:00 a.m., according to Hopper's data.

The study also highlights a notable shift in vacation planning: 33% of adults now use generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude for travel research and planning, compared to 35% who use traditional search engines.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas tickets reaching their highest prices in a decade, selecting the right departure and return days can mean saving hundreds of dollars per person, especially for families purchasing multiple tickets.