Travelers planning Thanksgiving or Christmas trips this year should brace for higher prices across the board. A recent Hopper analysis attributes the surge to soaring jet fuel costs, which have risen sharply amid ongoing international conflicts. The result is the most expensive holiday travel season in a decade.

Why prices are up

Jet fuel is a major operating expense for airlines. When global tensions push oil markets higher, airlines pass those costs on to passengers. Hopper’s data shows that baseline airfare prices are already elevated, and the window for low‑cost bookings closed before Halloween. With fewer seats available, prices are expected to continue inflating as the holiday rush progresses.

When to book

Travel experts recommend booking as soon as possible if you have not yet secured flights or lodging. The cheapest fares historically appeared before Halloween; that opportunity has passed. However, travelers with flexible itineraries may still find savings by avoiding peak travel days. Flying on less‑popular days—typically mid‑week rather than the traditional Thursday‑Friday rush—can shave hundreds of dollars off a round‑trip ticket.

Hotel pricing trends

Hotel rates are showing a mixed picture. While many properties have raised nightly rates, some major metropolitan hotels may offer last‑minute discounts 24 to 48 hours before the holiday, especially if rooms remain empty. Travelers heading to large cities should monitor hotel booking platforms for these brief price drops.

Use loyalty points wisely

If you have accumulated credit‑card points, airline miles, or hotel loyalty rewards, now is the time to redeem them. Hopper notes that many credit‑card portals are offering bonus travel redemption rates, which can offset the decade‑high cash prices. Burning points early in the season can provide more value than waiting until later in the year when availability narrows.

Weather and crowds

Winter weather adds another layer of uncertainty. While no traveler can control a blizzard, planning for potential disruptions—such as allowing extra travel time and purchasing flexible tickets—can reduce stress. Booking refundable or change‑able fares, when affordable, offers a safety net against unexpected delays.

Bottom line

Despite the upward pressure on airfare and hotel costs, strategic booking can still produce meaningful savings. Act quickly, travel on off‑peak days, keep an eye on last‑minute hotel deals, and leverage any loyalty points you have accumulated. By following these guidelines, families can enjoy the holiday season without breaking the bank.

Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.