If you need to fly somewhere for Christmas, you’re probably already aware of how pricey holiday airfare can be.
Add to that the crowds, delays, and overall chaos of the season, and travelling can feel like a daunting task.
However, there’s one travel tip that might surprise you: the best day to fly during the Christmas holiday is Christmas Eve.
“Most people aim to fly home a few days before Christmas, but if you want a smoother experience, consider booking your flight for Christmas Eve instead,” shared a former flight attendant from American Airlines with over a decade of experience.
This advice was recently highlighted in a press release by Air and Cruise Parking, a Tampa-based airport parking company.
While many people rush to reach their destinations days in advance, Christmas Eve offers a refreshing alternative.
By then, the bulk of holiday travellers have already arrived at their destinations, making airports noticeably quieter.
Flights are less crowded, and the experience feels far less stressful compared to the frenzied days leading up to Christmas.
“Christmas Eve is surprisingly calm. By then, the majority of travellers have already reached their destinations, so the airports are quieter, and flights are often less crowded. Plus, there’s a festive atmosphere onboard. Cabin crews tend to go the extra mile to make it special, whether that’s wearing Santa hats or offering festive treats,” the flight attendant explained.
For families and large groups, this can be an especially strategic time to fly.
Avoiding the pre-Christmas rush allows you to travel with ease while still arriving in time to enjoy the holiday festivities.
“You skip the earlier rush and still arrive in time to enjoy Christmas. It’s like sneaking in through the back door while everyone else is queued up at the front,” the flight attendant added.
So, if you’re looking to save yourself from the stress of packed airports and overbooked flights, consider making Christmas Eve your travel day.
Not only will you likely have a smoother journey, but you’ll also set the tone for a relaxed and joyful holiday season.
