Christmas in July: Why summer is the best time to book holiday travel

AAA travel advisers say nonstop flights and desirable destinations sell out fast

By AAA of Western and Central New York

The weather outside is frightful … with heat. Cold temperatures may seem far off in the distance but, in the travel world, now is the time to think about those cooler days and year-end holidays! AAA travel advisers say even though most people book holiday travel in September and October, summer is the best time to make holiday plans.

Nonstop Flights Fill Up Quickly

Most travelers want to skip layovers and get right to their destination. That means nonstop flights, especially those going cross-country and internationally, will fill up fast.

“Sometimes travelers wait to book airline tickets to get a better deal, but prices fluctuate, and the longer they wait, the fewer options they’ll have for nonstop flights and premium seats,” said Jodi Abata, AAA travel adviser, who frequently books international trips for AAA members.

Book Now Before Most Families Do

With summer vacations and camps in full swing, most families aren’t thinking about the holidays. That’s why you should be!

“Beat the rush and start planning for the holidays now! Many families with kids wait to book until early fall, when schools resume and they’re back into their routine,” said Cady DeBlois, AAA travel adviser, who books many theme park vacations for AAA members. “But ideally, they should start getting their holiday trips on the books now to get the best selection.”

More People are Gifting Experiences Instead of Presents

AAA travel advisers say they’re seeing more people gift travel experiences to loved ones instead of presents.

“I just booked travel for one family who’s surprising their children on Christmas morning with a trip to Disney World, leaving later that same day! That family was sure to book early to get exactly what they wanted,” DeBlois shared.

YOLO (You Only Live Once) is Replacing Bucket Lists

After three years of a pandemic, many travelers are tackling their bucket lists now!

“I’ve had travelers tell me, ‘I don’t know what my health will be in five or 10 years, let’s go abroad this year,’ ” Abata said. “There seems to be a sense of adventure from more people now. They don’t want to delay travel any longer.”

Europe, Cruises and Theme Parks Sell Out in Advance

European travel is booming this year, and the holidays will be no exception. AAA travel advisers say touring Christmas markets in Europe is extremely popular and itineraries sell out in advance. River cruises are also in high demand during the holidays, along with Caribbean cruises. Theme parks are a holiday favorite for families when students are on winter break.

For holiday travel ideas and vacation bookings, reach out to a AAA travel adviser or browse Trip Canvas for inspiration and top trending destinations. Check out AAA Diamond hotels and restaurants for the best places to stay and dine during your trip.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 862,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.