As the festive season approaches, new research by KAYAK, the leading travel search engine, reveals that British travellers seeking long-haul flights outside of Europe could save up to 28% by choosing to depart on New Year’s Eve. The study, titled Travel Check In: Christmas and New Year 2024, analysed roundtrip economy flights from the UK for the Christmas and New Year holiday period, defined as 14 December 2024 to 6 January 2025.
For those planning long-haul trips to destinations like Buenos Aires or Singapore, flying on 31 December is expected to be the quietest and most economical option during the festive period. KAYAK’s data suggests that travellers opting for this date could benefit from significantly lower fares compared to other times.
In contrast, December 20 is anticipated to be the busiest travel day, with flights on this date costing an average of 24% more than on other days. For those returning after the holiday, travelling on Boxing Day can offer savings of around 24%, while flying back on January 4, 2025, could lead to a steep 30% increase in prices due to the return to work and school schedules.
For European travel, the best day to depart is 16 December, where savings of 22% on average can be found. Conversely, flights on 28 December are expected to be 21% higher than average. The quietest day for flying within Europe will be 15 December, while the busiest day is predicted to be 21 December.
BEST AND WORST VALUE DATES TO DEPART FROM THE UK THIS FESTIVE PERIOD
| Destination type | KAYAK’s best value departure date | Savings vs average day | KAYAK’s worst value departure date | Spendings vs average day |
| Domestic | 30th December 2024 | -11 % | 20th December 2024 | +19 % |
| Europe | 16th December 2024 | -22 % | 28th December 2024 | +21 % |
| International outside Europe | 31st December 2024 | -28 % | 20th December 2024 | +24 % |
Domestic travellers also have opportunities for savings this festive season. According to KAYAK’s analysis, flights on 30 December are 11% cheaper than on other dates. However, travellers should avoid 20 December, when fares could rise by 19%. The quietest day for UK domestic flights will be 29 December, offering a more relaxed airport experience.
KAYAK has provided an overview of the best and worst value departure dates for various travel types. For domestic flights, the best date is 30 December, while the worst is 20 December. For European flights, 16 December is the best choice, while 28 December is the worst. For international flights outside Europe, the best date remains New Year’s Eve, and the worst is 20 December.
The research also indicates a slight decrease in average flight prices this year, with the overall cost expected to drop by 3% to £826 compared to £851 in 2023. This presents an opportunity for travellers to allocate some of their savings towards festive indulgences during their trips.
Rachel Mumford, a travel expert at KAYAK UK, emphasised the importance of flexibility in travel planning. She noted, “While it can be lovely travelling during Christmas and New Year, there are considerations to avoid adding to an already expensive time of year. Flexibility with your departure and return dates can lower your airfare and help you avoid longer travel times.”
For those unsure about their holiday destination, KAYAK offers an explore page to assist in finding budget-friendly options to suit various tastes. This festive season, with thoughtful planning and the right timing, travellers can enjoy significant savings on their holiday flights.
