Good news! According to data from Dollar Flight Club, airfare for the 2025 Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year travel windows has dropped to its lowest level since 2022.
“We’re seeing domestic holiday fares about 19 percent lower than the average from the past three years and international prices down roughly 9 percent,” Dollar Flight Club reports. On some routes, prices are a staggering 40 percent lower than last year.
Where Prices Are Falling Fastest
The sharpest declines are showing up on popular leisure routes and sun-soaked getaways. Dollar Flight Club’s latest analysis highlights a few standout deals:
- New York City to Miami/Fort Lauderdale: As low as $98 roundtrip, down 36–41 percent. Extra capacity and airport competition are keeping prices in check.
- Chicago to Cancún: From $221 roundtrip, about 32 percent cheaper than last year.
- Houston or Dallas to Mexico City: $178 roundtrip, roughly 28 percent lower.
- Los Angeles or New York to Rome: $297–$401 roundtrip, about 30 percent lower.
- Mid-Atlantic to Orlando: Fares as low as $38 roundtrip, a 40 percent dip thanks to expanded service into both Orlando International and Sanford.
Why Airfare Is Cheaper This Season
The short version: There are finally more seats where travelers actually want to go. Airlines have bulked up winter schedules to Florida, Mexico and key European hubs, while demand is spreading across more travel days instead of peaking on just a few.
Lower jet fuel prices and fierce competition between airports are also helping. “Capacity and competition are finally where demand is,” the Dollar Flight Club team says. Flexing your travel dates by even one day, or choosing a secondary airport, can make a big difference.
The Cheapest Holiday Destinations for 2025
If you’re after a deal, Florida and Mexico are the biggest winners this year. Roundtrips under $100 into Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Tampa are popping up regularly, while Cancún and Mexico City are seeing deep discounts from major Texas and Midwest hubs.
Looking farther afield, Rome and São Paulo are the top long-haul bargains. Flights from the U.S. to Italy are averaging around 30 percent less than last year and Brazil fares are down by a third.
When to Book
Timing is still everything. Dollar Flight Club’s research suggests booking:
- Thanksgiving:
Domestic flights 3–7 weeks out
International 6–10 weeks out - Christmas & New Year:
Domestic 4–8 weeks out
International 6–12 weeks out
If your fare spikes, try shifting dates by a day or two or swapping airports, think LaGuardia vs. JFK, or Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami.
Best Days to Fly
The cheapest flights often coincide with the quietest travel days:
- Thanksgiving Day morning and the Saturday after Thanksgiving
- December 24 or 25 for outbound Christmas trips
- January 1 or 2 for returns
Early-morning departures also tend to run cheaper and are more likely to leave on time.
For the first time in years, holiday travelers have leverage again. With flexibility and a little airport strategy, 2025’s festive season could be the most affordable in recent memory.
