11 Smart Moves: Cheapest Day to Fly for Christmas (And the Day to Avoid)

3. Avoid Dec. 22–23: Peak outbound days to skip if you can

The two days just before Christmas, typically December 22 and 23, are among the priciest outbound travel days. These dates capture the main pre-holiday rush as families and groups pile onto the same flights, which drives seat demand and pushes fares upward. Travel data and industry reporting consistently identify those dates as peak-volume days, and airlines often add surcharge pricing in response. If your schedule allows flexibility, shifting your departure to Dec. 24 or Dec. 25 can cut costs and reduce stress from crowded terminals. For travelers who cannot shift dates, booking earlier—ideally within recommended booking windows—can limit exposure to sudden fare jumps. Another approach is to search adjacent airports or consider a late-night flight on Dec. 21, which sometimes escapes the worst of the surge while still getting you home before the holiday. In short, expect higher prices and tighter inventories on Dec. 22–23; plan alternatives if saving money is a priority.