The festive season is a time of joy, celebration, and, for many Australians, travel. Whether you’re planning to visit family across the country or take a well-deserved holiday getaway, the cost of flights can be a significant concern. But fear not, savvy travellers! There are secrets to unlocking savings on your airfare, and we’re here to spill the beans.
One of the most surprising tips for those who prioritise savings over tradition is to consider flying on December 25th. While most of us are unwrapping presents and feasting on Christmas lunch, airports are quieter, and flights are cheaper. Justin Brownjohn, operations manager at RMIT Aviation Academy, highlights that opting to travel on Christmas Day could save you hundreds of dollars. Domestic travel peaks in the days leading up to Christmas, while international travel surges from Boxing Day onwards. However, the calm of December 25th offers a unique opportunity for those willing to swap their Christmas crackers for boarding passes.
For example, a one-way flight from Melbourne to London on Christmas Day with a major airline was quoted at $1684, a price that’s likely to be significantly higher on surrounding dates. Brownjohn also notes that the atmosphere in airports on Christmas Day is often more relaxed and festive, with a sense of community and gratitude for the staff working to keep the skies friendly during the holiday season.
But what if you can’t bear the thought of missing out on family time? Compare the Market’s research suggests that there are still deals to be had in the lead-up to Christmas. Their data, which analysed Skyscanner options, found that flights from major Australian cities and Wellington, NZ, were cheapest on average between December 10-13. Conversely, the most expensive days to fly were from December 20-22 and December 26-29.
Travel expert Catriona Rowntree from Compare the Market advises that flying out during the day can also lead to savings, as demand is lower compared to peak times like post-work or school hours. She reminds us that creating family memories doesn’t have to break the bank. After all, it’s the quality time spent together that counts, not the extravagance of the accommodation.
For those looking to maximise their savings, RMIT associate finance professor Angel Zhong recommends being aware of dynamic pricing strategies used by airlines. These strategies capitalise on the urgency and emotions tied to holiday travel. To avoid falling into this trap, set a budget and resist impulsive purchases. Utilise tools like price alerts and fare trackers to stay informed about price changes and secure the best deals. Planning ahead, being flexible with travel dates, and considering alternative airports can also lead to significant cost reductions.
Despite the general uptick in prices over the festive season due to high demand, there’s a silver lining. Compared to last year, the average flight price out of Brisbane has decreased by 9.9 per cent. Similarly, flights from Sydney and Melbourne have seen reductions of 6.1 per cent and 14.3 per cent, respectively.
Got any insider tricks for snagging low-cost flights during the holidays? We’d love to hear your thoughts—comment below!
Also read: Sydney and Melbourne airports brace for unprecedented holiday travel surge
