Looking for a less stressful and more affordable way to travel this festive season? You might want to consider flying on Christmas Day itself.
According to air travel experts, it’s not just a savvy financial move but also a surprisingly pleasant experience.
Justin Brownjohn, Operations Manager at the RMIT Aviation Academy and a former network controller for major airlines, explains why.
“Domestic travel goes crazy in the days leading up to Christmas. And then international travel is popular from Boxing Day and into the New Year,” he says.
“If you’re looking for a relatively stress-free day of travel, and to make some savings, the sweet spot is December 25th itself.”
For example, a one-way flight from Melbourne to London on Christmas Day could cost $1,684 with a major airline.
But Brownjohn says the same fare rises significantly across the festive season, with prices soaring by up to 70 per cent if booked for early January.
Beyond the financial perks, the festive cheer is alive and well at airports on Christmas Day.
“Beyond the savings, it’s often far less stressful to travel on Christmas Day. People are in a festive mood and there’s a shared sense of community at airports for those working and travelling,” he says.
“There’s also a feeling of gratitude to staff who are working to keep airlines flying over Christmas.”
Tips to tame holiday fares
Dr Angel Zhong, RMIT Associate Professor in Finance sheds light on why airfares spike around the holidays.
“Airlines adjust prices in real-time based on demand, seat availability, and competition. Over the festive season, surging demand often leads to sharp price increases, leaving late bookers to bear the brunt,” she states.
For budget-conscious travellers, preparation is key. So Zhong says tools like fare trackers and price alerts can help you stay on top of deals. Flexibility with dates and airports is another game-changer.
“Planning ahead, being flexible with dates, and considering alternative airports can also make a big difference,” she advises.
So, if you’re ready to trade a slice of pudding for a smoother trip, Christmas Day could be the gift you didn’t know you needed.
According to recent Skyscanner data, there’s been a major shift in the cheapest December airfares. So aside from Christmas Day itself, which days are the most affordable and most expensive to fly on?
