Norwalk, Conn. – October 02, 2026 -- Travelers waiting on holiday flight deals have a narrow window, according to KAYAK's 2026 Holiday Travel Check-In, which analyzed historical fare trends to pinpoint the best times to book.

Thanksgiving fares bottom out five weeks before the holiday

Domestic airfare has historically hit its lowest point roughly five weeks before Thanksgiving, meaning travelers who haven't booked should aim to do so before the end of October. Prices climb sharply within two weeks of departure. Flying on Thanksgiving Day itself, historically one of the cheapest travel days, can save up to 19% domestically and 49% internationally compared with November 20, the most expensive date to fly.

Christmas travelers have a mid-November to early-December sweet spot

KAYAK data shows Christmas fares typically dip four to seven weeks before departure. Flying the week of Christmas instead of the week before can save up to 18% domestically and 34% internationally.

"Throughout 2026, airfare has largely followed the seasonal patterns we saw in 2025, just at a higher price point,