Holiday airfare prices surge due to high demand for travel. Google Flights experts advise booking Thanksgiving flights between 21 to 57 days before departure. The statistically lowest prices for Thanksgiving flights tend to be around 34 days prior to the travel date. For Thanksgiving 2026, this optimal booking window was roughly September 30 to November 5. Flying on Thanksgiving morning, the cheapest fares were likely discovered on October 23. However, prices may remain low until about 21 days before departure, offering a last chance to book. Christmas flights, conversely, have their lowest prices further out, between 33 and 67 days before departure. For Christmas 2026, this ideal booking period falls between October 19 and November 22. The absolute cheapest Christmas fares are often found 56 days before the flight. Common airfare hacks like clearing cookies, using VPNs, or buying on Tuesdays have minimal impact. Google Flights data suggests these popular tips are largely ineffective for significant savings. The window for booking the cheapest holiday flights is rapidly closing, urging immediate action.