It’s not too early to buy airline tickets for Thanksgiving.
In fact, if you know you’ll be stuck traveling the busiest days (translation: most expensive days), you need to shop now.
But first, read this. It could save you more than a few dollars.
Cheaper days to fly
Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28 (Note: This is the very cheapest day to fly)
Monday before, Nov. 25
Tuesday before, Nov. 26
Saturday after, Nov. 30
Tuesday after, Dec. 3
Most expensive days to fly
Wednesday before, Nov. 27
Sunday after, Dec. 1
Monday after, Dec. 2
If you don’t have the flexibility to schedule both departure and return flights on the cheaper days, see if you can travel on one of those dates. You’ll still reap half the savings.
Here are some examples of what to pay for flights during Thanksgiving week. These round-trip fares are goals only. Don’t get upset if you don’t reach them; coming close still qualifies as a win in the airfare game.
Long-haul flights
For flights on the most expensive days, about $550.
For flights on cheaper days, from under $425 to $430.
Medium-haul flights
For flights on the most expensive days, about $375.
For flights on cheaper days, under $300.
Short-haul flights
For flights on the most expensive days, about $200.
For flights on cheaper days, about $150.
If you have to fly the more expensive days, get going. Tickets prices will rise about $5 per day starting right now, so do not procrastinate.
Rick Seaney is the CEO of Faircompare. © 2013 USA TODAY. All rights reserved.
