Good news for Aussie travellers. This year, Australian holidaymakers might be able to save a few bucks more on their Christmas season getaway… with a little strategising.
That said, without planning, travellers may face higher holiday airfares, with new data showing large price differences between the cheapest and priciest days to fly in December.
Travel insurance comparison site Compare the Market recently analysed Skyscanner data for single one-way flights departing from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Wellington to various Australian and New Zealand cities.
The study found flights are generally cheapest between 3-5 December and 10-13 December, marking a shift from last year’s lowest prices, which fell between 11-17 December.
Meanwhile, peak prices are expected around 20-22 December and 26-29 December.
Compare the Market travel expert Catriona Rowntree says that travellers can still find savings with early planning and flexibility.
“If you have the option, fly out during the day when there’s not as much demand,” she said.
“You’ll hit peak traffic if you’re flying out after everyone is finished at school or commuting home from work and that can be stressful.
“Airports are stressful at this time of the year. Remember that to be early is to be on time, to be on time is to be late and to be late is ‘holy cow we’ve missed the plane’.
“When looking for accommodation always prioritise safety and convenience over luxuries.”
Airfares head south
The research also revealed a positive trend: average December airfares are down compared to last year.
The biggest savings, a 25 per cent drop, were seen on flights from Melbourne to Cairns.
Across major Australian cities, average flights were about 9.9 per cent cheaper from Brisbane, 6.1 per cent cheaper from Sydney, and 14.3 per cent cheaper from Melbourne.
Flights on 31 December remain a potential bargain, with Brisbane travellers finding low-cost flights to Melbourne, Hobart and Adelaide.
Sydney residents may find affordable airfares to Melbourne, while Melburnians can secure trips to Adelaide for as low as $85. Flights from Wellington to Christchurch were as low as $51. Prices were gathered on 17 October 2024.
“It’s great to see some sort of reprieve for cash-strapped families who may only see their family at Christmas,” Compare the Market Executive General Manager for General Insurance, and travel insurance expert, Adrian Taylor, said.
“We are seeing some of the prices dip from last year, but without a doubt, we would expect prices to increase in the weeks leading up to the end-of-year break.
“The best option for people would be to book early, see if there is some flexibility in the days they’re flying, and search around for a deal, just like they would for car insurance or a better rate on their home loan.”
Be sure to insure
Taylor also reminded holidaymakers of the importance of travel insurance, even for domestic holidays.
“The end of the year is starting to wrap up as another busy one, with many people thinking of heading over state lines or the Tasman Sea to celebrate, relax and unwind,” he remarked.
“However, just because people may be heading interstate, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pack travel insurance alongside your swimwear and sunscreen.
“Meteorologists are predicting another wet summer this year, with plenty of opportunity for torrential downpours and perhaps even a cyclone or two, meaning any open-air activity you’ve already booked could be under threat of cancellation due to inclement weather or flooding.
“And while Medicare could cover you for any medical emergencies that may arise if travelling domestically, travel insurance could help you cover the cancellation costs that are out of your control, including the flights you’ve booked.”
And organising travel insurance for trips across the Tasman should be a “no-brainer”.
“Whether you’re planning a visit to the adventure capital of the world or taking a more subdued approach with a wine and food tour across the country, travel insurance can protect your trip. Just make sure you have the right cover for you,” he stated.
“So, if you feel like you need to let loose a bit and perhaps try skydiving, bungee jumping, or scuba diving, make sure you have adventure extras included in your comprehensive policy.”
In October, Flight Centre’s corporate division revealed that the average cost of international airfares across all carriers had fallen by as much as 10 per cent, on the back of extra capacity.
