Clark Howard's Tips

November 3, 2005

Are you planning to go visit family members for the holidays? If so, you've probably seen that ticket prices have increased quite a bit for the holidays.

Most sources say prices are up between 25 and 30 percent compared to the rest of the year.

Christmas and New Year's are both on Sundays this year, so prices are extra pricey. On years when the holidays fall on Tuesday through Friday, airfare is much more affordable.

Fares to Florida are going to be extra high and hard to get, despite the fact that many airlines in Florida are now discounters.

So is it hopeless? No! You can still find deals, especially if you can be flexible on your days.

As for Thanksgiving, flying on Thanksgiving Day, the Friday after and the Saturday after is the way.

If you're not planning to be with family, the holidays are a great time to visit convention cities and business centers. San Francisco, Dallas, Boston, Washington. and Atlanta are all great deals the week between Christmas and New Year's.

No matter where you go or what you do, remember that baggage rules have changed. Airlines now weigh everything because they make a ton of money on overweight baggage. So weigh your luggage beforehand and make sure it's within the airline's guidelines.

Consumer advice courtesy of