Travelers, Watch Out! Record Surge in Air Tickets!

As one of the year's busiest travel periods approaches in the U.S., sharp increases in flight ticket prices have made headlines. The 2026 Holiday Travel Index, published by travel booking platform Hopper, shows that flight prices have reached the highest levels in the past decade during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

According to the research, average round-trip flight ticket prices in the U.S. for Thanksgiving, falling on November 26, hit $402, a $95 increase from the same period last year, representing a 31% rise.

Over the Christmas period, average round-trip flight prices in the U.S. reached $452, an $85 increase from last year, or a 23% rise.

The figures were derived from research based on flight searches conducted in September. Therefore, the prices reflect average fares during the research period, not current ticket prices in November.

Rising fuel costs lie behind the increase in ticket prices.

One of the main reasons for the increase in flight ticket prices is the rise in global jet fuel prices.

The impact of Middle East conflicts on oil supply has significantly increased airlines' costs. According to data from the International Air Transport Association, jet fuel price, which was about $99 per barrel before the conflicts, rose to $209 in April. By mid‑September it was at $195.

Fuel expenses account for a significant share of airlines' total operating costs, causing price changes to be reflected directly in ticket fares.

Facing rising costs, some airlines have raised ticket prices while also increasing ancillary fees and reducing certain flights. Experts point out that even if fuel prices were to fall, the impact may not be immediately reflected in airfares.

The airfare for a family of four exceeds $1,800.

Rising prices especially strain the budgets of families traveling with children.

Based on the stated average prices, a family of four would need to pay about $1,608 for round‑trip tickets during the Thanksgiving period.

The same family's airfare during the Christmas period, however, reaches $1,808.

These figures do not include baggage fees, airport transfers, accommodation, or other travel expenses. Consequently, families planning to change cities during the holiday season may face total costs that are much higher.

The most expensive day could be November 29.

One of the study’s most striking findings was the large price gap between travel dates.

The Sunday following Thanksgiving, November 29, is poised to be one of the year’s most expensive travel days. According to the study, the average price of a round‑trip domestic U.S. ticket that includes a return on that date is $604.

In contrast, passengers who postpone their return to Monday or Tuesday can find tickets averaging about $350. Thus, simply changing the return date can save roughly $250 per person.

One of the more affordable departure dates before Thanksgiving is Monday, November 23. The average ticket price on that date is around $370. For those who prefer to travel on Thursday, November 26, the day the holiday is celebrated, the average price is about $371.

In contrast, travelers wishing to depart on the Wednesday immediately before the holiday face higher prices.

Critical dates were also identified for the Christmas holiday.

For those planning to travel during the Christmas period, flight dates are also of great importance.

According to the study, average ticket prices for outbound flights between December 18 and 20 approach $500. Passengers who choose the Monday or Tuesday before Christmas can expect average prices of about $440.

Those planning to return on Sunday, December 27 should be cautious. Tickets on that day are said to be roughly 20% more expensive than those for early‑week return flights.

In long trips that also include the New Year's holiday, prices are expected to rise again after January 2, potentially exceeding $560.

Hotel prices have also risen.

It's not just airfare that strains holiday budgets. Accommodation costs, especially during the Christmas season, are also rising sharply.

During Thanksgiving, the average nightly rate for hotels across the U.S. sits around $170, a figure close to last year's level.

In the Christmas period, the average nightly hotel price reached $197, an increase of 18% compared to last year.

Thus, if a family of four stays for four nights during the Christmas season and buys flights at average prices, the total cost for airfare and lodging comes to about $2,596.

New York and Florida are among the most popular destinations

Despite high prices, Americans' interest in holiday travel continues

According to the study, during Thanksgiving and Christmas, New York, Miami, and Orlando are the most popular destinations within the United States

In international travel, major cities such as London, Paris, Tokyo, and Bangkok stand out

Price hikes are also noticeable on international flights. During the Christmas period, airfare to Mexico and Central America rose 23% compared to last year, while flights to Europe increased by 15%

In contrast, prices for some long‑haul destinations such as Africa, Asia, and Oceania are said to be close to or slightly lower than last year

Those waiting for last‑minute tickets may end up paying more

Travel experts point out that last‑minute bookings during holiday periods do not always offer an advantage

In particular, airlines’ use of constantly shifting pricing models based on demand during peak travel periods can make tickets more expensive as the flight date approaches

Therefore, passengers who find a ticket that fits their budget are advised not to delay their reservations too long by comparing prices across different airlines

Dates are crucial for a more affordable trip

Faced with high prices, experts emphasize that passengers should focus not only on the ticket fare but also on the overall cost of the trip

Particularly by being flexible with departure and return dates, comparing fares across different airports, and avoiding busy travel days when possible, travelers can achieve significant savings.

Additionally, frequent flyer miles accumulated in airline loyalty programs and credit card travel points can be used to reduce ticket costs.

While flight cancellations and delays during peak holiday periods can lead to larger problems, travelers are advised to prefer early morning and non-stop flights when possible. Research shows that flights departing after 9.00 have approximately twice the delay risk of those departing between 5.00 and 8.00.

As the countdown begins for Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays in the U.S., rising travel and accommodation costs can prompt millions to reconsider their travel plans. Choosing the right travel dates is especially important for large families, as it can create a difference of hundreds of dollars in holiday budgets.