Flying on Christmas Day – The Pros and Cons to Air Travel on December 25th
The holiday season is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Airports are packed, flights are full, and delays seem almost inevitable. But what about flying on Christmas Day itself? While most people prefer to be at home with family, some travelers find themselves taking to the skies on December 25th.
For our Christmas vacation we traveled from Sacramento, California to Austin, Texas, and our flight home was on December 25th, Christmas day. We did this because it was WAY cheaper than flying home the next day. And with four of us in the family (two adults and two kids), flying all of us can get expensive. In fact, I think it was such a bargain that I might just make it an annual tradition since the kids are already out on school winter break.
Whether you’re flying for a holiday getaway, visiting loved ones, or just happen to have a travel schedule that places you on a plane that day, there are both benefits and drawbacks to air travel on Christmas Day.
Booking Your Ticket for Christmas Eve vs Christmas Day
When deciding whether to book your ticket for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, timing can make a big difference in cost, crowd levels, and overall travel experience. Christmas Eve tends to be one of the busiest travel days of the year, with packed airports, higher ticket prices, and a rush of last-minute travelers trying to reach their destinations before the holiday celebrations begin.
On the other hand, Christmas Day often sees lighter crowds and lower fares, as fewer people choose to fly on the holiday itself. However, traveling on Christmas Day might mean missing part of the festivities with family or friends. If cost and a smoother travel experience are priorities, Christmas Day could be the better option, while those wanting to arrive early for holiday gatherings might prefer the trade-off of a busier Christmas Eve flight.
The Pros of Flying on Christmas Day
Here are some great reasons why flying on Christmas Day might be a smart choice:
Lower Airfares
One of the biggest advantages of flying on Christmas Day is the potential for cheaper airfare. Airlines often price Christmas Day flights lower than those on the days leading up to and following the holiday. Since most people aim to reach their destination before Christmas, demand for December 25th flights tends to be lower, leading to cost savings for those who choose to travel on the day itself.
Less Crowded Airports
Airports can be chaotic during the holiday season, especially in the days before Christmas. However, on Christmas Day, many travelers have already reached their destinations, meaning fewer people in the terminals. Security lines are shorter, baggage claim is less congested, and navigating the airport can be a much more pleasant experience compared to the holiday travel rush.
Fewer Flight Delays
Since there are fewer flights scheduled on Christmas Day, air traffic is significantly reduced. This can lead to fewer delays and cancellations compared to peak holiday travel days like December 22nd or 23rd. With less congestion both in the air and on the ground, flights are more likely to depart and arrive on time.
Quieter and Less Crowded Flights
If you’ve ever traveled during peak holiday season, you know that flights can be loud and crowded, especially with families traveling with young children. On Christmas Day, however, flights tend to be quieter since there are fewer passengers overall. You might find yourself with extra space or even an empty seat next to you, making for a more comfortable journey.
Unique and Festive Atmosphere
Flying on Christmas Day can have a unique charm. Airlines often add festive touches, such as holiday-themed snacks, decorations, or even flight attendants wearing Santa hats. Some airlines go the extra mile by offering complimentary holiday treats or playing Christmas music onboard. It can create a warm and cheerful atmosphere, making your journey feel a little more special. We told our kids to keep a lookout for Santa and his reindeer pulling the sleigh in the sky outside our airplane window!
Last-Minute Travel Flexibility
If you suddenly decide to travel over the holidays, finding a flight on Christmas Eve or earlier can be challenging and expensive. However, Christmas Day flights are often easier to book last-minute, giving travelers more flexibility in their plans.
The Cons of Flying on Christmas Day
While flying on Christmas Day has its perks, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
Limited Flight Options
While fewer travelers on Christmas Day can be a plus, it also means that airlines operate a reduced flight schedule. If you have specific travel plans, you may find fewer direct flights or limited departure times. Layovers might be longer, and connections might be more difficult to find.
Potentially Limited Airport Services
Many airport shops, restaurants, and lounges operate on reduced hours or close entirely on Christmas Day. If you rely on grabbing a meal at the airport or picking up some last-minute gifts, you might be out of luck. Even some airline lounges may have limited hours, so if you were planning to relax in one before your flight, be sure to check ahead of time.
Missing Out on Christmas Traditions
For those who love to celebrate Christmas, traveling on December 25th means missing out on family traditions, gift exchanges, and festive meals. While some travelers might not mind, others may feel the absence of being with loved ones. Even if you’re visiting family, spending a large portion of the day in transit can cut into your holiday celebrations.
Unpredictable Weather
Winter travel always comes with the risk of weather-related delays, and Christmas Day is no exception. Depending on where you’re flying from and to, snowstorms, ice, or other adverse conditions could impact your travel plans. While there are fewer flights in the sky, which can help reduce congestion-related delays, bad weather can still throw a wrench into even the best-laid plans.
Fewer Airport and Airline Staff
Since Christmas is a major holiday, many airport and airline employees have the day off, leading to smaller staffing numbers. While operations still run, there may be fewer customer service representatives available to assist with issues, and baggage handling may take longer. If there are unexpected delays or cancellations, getting assistance might take more time than usual.
A Less Social Atmosphere
While some people enjoy the peace and quiet of a less crowded airport and plane, others might find it a bit lonely. If you thrive on the social aspect of holiday travel—meeting fellow travelers, sharing stories, and engaging in festive cheer—the subdued atmosphere on Christmas Day flights might feel a bit isolating. During or layover on Christmas Day, it felt like we had the entire airport for ourselves. There was hardly anyone in the seating areas or walking around.
Tips for Flying on Christmas Day
If you do decide to travel on December 25th, here are a few tips to make the experience smoother and more enjoyable:
- Book Early: While Christmas Day flights can be cheaper, availability is still limited. Booking in advance ensures you get the best flight times and connections.
- Check Airport Services: Look up what shops and restaurants will be open at your departure and arrival airports so you can plan accordingly.
- Bring Snacks and Entertainment: Since food options may be limited, pack snacks and bring something to keep yourself entertained.
- Dress Comfortably: Whether you’re traveling short or long distances, comfortable clothing will make your journey more pleasant.
- Plan for Weather Delays: If you’re traveling through winter-prone areas, keep an eye on the weather forecast and have a backup plan in case of disruptions.
- Embrace the Holiday Spirit: Bring along a festive book, watch a holiday movie, or even wear a Christmas sweater to keep the holiday cheer alive while you travel.
Worst Travel Days of the Year
The worst travel days of the year are typically those surrounding major holidays, when millions of people hit the roads and airports at the same time. The days before Thanksgiving, particularly the Wednesday before, and the Sunday after are notorious for heavy traffic and flight delays.
Similarly, the days leading up to Christmas, especially December 22nd and 23rd, see packed airports and expensive tickets as travelers rush to reach their loved ones. Summer holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day weekend also bring intense congestion, with travelers heading to vacation spots.
Additionally, Fridays during peak vacation season and long weekends can lead to gridlocked highways and overwhelmed airports. If avoiding stress and delays is a priority, it’s best to steer clear of these high-traffic travel days or plan well in advance.
What About Flying on New Years Day?
Flying on New Year’s Day can be a smart choice for travelers looking to avoid the chaos of holiday crowds. Unlike the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, which are often packed with people heading to celebrations, New Year’s Day tends to be quieter at airports, with fewer travelers and shorter security lines. Additionally, ticket prices are often lower compared to peak holiday travel days, making it a budget-friendly option.
However, early morning flights may be less appealing for those who stayed up late ringing in the new year. If you’re looking for a smooth and potentially more affordable travel experience, flying on New Year’s Day could be a great choice.
Can You Get Deals for Traveling on Halloween and Thanksgiving Day Too?
Yes you can! Alaska Airlines used to have a crazy deal where I could fly from San Francisco to NYC for $30… if you flew on Halloween day! I did this deal twice and it totally worked. And even despite the crazy low prices, the airplane was super empty. This was before I had kids and so there was no trick-or-treating happening in the family. I’m sure there’s also big deals for flying on Thanksgiving day too. The secret to finding these super low prices is signing up for the airlines’ email newsletters. When you see the deals come in, book as quickly as you can because the seats fill up.
Final Thoughts: Is Flying on Christmas Day Worth It?
Flying on Christmas Day comes with its own set of pros and cons. For those looking to save money, avoid crowds, and enjoy a quieter travel experience, it can be a great option. However, limited flight options, reduced airport services, and the potential for missing out on family traditions can be downsides to consider.
Ultimately, whether flying on December 25th is the right choice depends on your personal preferences and travel needs. If you’re flexible and prepared, it can be an easy and even enjoyable experience. But if Christmas Day traditions are important to you, it might be worth planning your travels around the holiday instead.
No matter when you choose to fly, safe travels and happy holidays!
