The holidays are one of the busiest times of the year for travel. Crowded airports, delayed flights, and last-minute hotel bookings can quickly turn festive plans into a nightmare. However, with a little planning and some savvy tips, you can navigate holiday travel like a pro. Whether you're booking a flight, finding a discount hotel, or arranging last-minute accommodations, these 12 ways will help you sleigh your holiday travel!

1. Plan Ahead and Stay Flexible

One of the best ways to avoid holiday travel headaches is to plan ahead. Start your planning as early as possible, especially when it comes to booking tickets to fly. Flight prices tend to increase closer to the holidays, so securing your ticket in advance will save you a significant amount of money. That being said, staying flexible with your travel dates can also help you find great deals. Consider flying a few days before or after the major holidays to avoid peak travel times and secure air fare discounts.

2. Use a Travel Booking Site Like Travel Fika

When it comes to app booking for flights and hotels, choosing the right platform can make a huge difference. Travel Fika is an excellent choice for both flight and hotel bookings, offering some of the best prices and customer service. If you're unsure about using the app, you can always call their travel experts directly at (855) 650-FIKA to get personalized assistance. This way, whether you're booking flights or securing a last minute hotel reservation, you have professionals helping you along the way.

Read More: Traveling with Kids: Tips for a Stress-Free Family Vacation

3. Score Deals with Last-Minute Bookings

Procrastinators rejoice! Sometimes waiting until the last minute can pay off when it comes to last minute hotel reservations and flight deals. Many airlines and hotels lower their prices to fill unsold spots, meaning you can snag a good deal just before your trip. If you're traveling on short notice, apps that specialize in finding a discount hotel or book hotel tonight services can help you save big. Keep an eye out for those last-minute deals, but be cautious — waiting too long can sometimes leave you with fewer options.

4. Consider Alternative Airports

Major hubs like JFK, LAX, and O’Hare get incredibly congested during the holidays. If possible, consider flying into smaller, nearby airports. Not only can this save you time (since smaller airports tend to have shorter security lines), but you might also find better deals on flights to book. Smaller airports sometimes have lower demand, which could translate into air fare discounts that aren’t available at larger airports.

5. Stay Organized with Travel Apps

The holiday rush can be overwhelming, but staying organized can help reduce stress. Use a travel app to manage your flights, hotels, and car rentals all in one place. If you're searching for the best app for cheap hotels, Travel Fika is a reliable option. It allows you to book flights and hotels effortlessly, and even offers customer support in case anything goes awry. Apps can also keep you updated with real-time notifications about flight delays, gate changes, and more, helping you stay on top of your travel itinerary.

6. Book Directly for Better Deals

While travel apps and third-party booking sites are convenient, sometimes booking directly with the airline or hotel can result in better deals. Many hotels and airlines offer best hotel discounts or perks such as free Wi-Fi, upgrades, or flexible cancellation policies if you book directly through their websites or customer service. Always compare prices across platforms, and don’t hesitate to call the hotel or airline to ask about special offers or unadvertised discounts.

Also Read: Discovering London on a Budget: A Journey of Thrift and Wonders

7. Travel Light to Save Time and Money

Checking bags not only adds extra costs to your travel but also increases the chances of your luggage being delayed or lost — especially during the holiday rush. Try to fit everything into a carry-on, which will allow you to skip the baggage claim and head straight to your destination. This strategy also makes it easier to switch flights last-minute if there's a cancellation or delay. In case you need more luggage, be prepared for extra fees and consider booking a discount hotel that offers luggage storage.

8. Be Prepared for Delays

Winter weather can be unpredictable, leading to flight delays and cancellations. Prepare yourself mentally for the possibility of these disruptions. Download your airline’s app so you can get real-time updates on your flight status and be ready to adjust your plans if needed. Some travel apps also allow you to book airline tickets or change reservations with just a few clicks, which can be a lifesaver in the event of a last-minute change.

9. Sign Up for Loyalty Programs

Frequent travelers can benefit greatly from signing up for airline and hotel loyalty programs. These programs often provide exclusive offers, upgrades, and early access to air fare discounts and best hotel discounts. Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, some loyalty programs offer perks like free checked bags or seat upgrades just for signing up. Make sure to check if your travel booking site, like Travel Fika, partners with these programs to provide you with even more benefits.

10. Use Credit Card Rewards and Points

If you’ve been racking up credit card points, now is the perfect time to cash them in. Many credit cards offer travel rewards, allowing you to use points for tickets to fly, hotel stays, or car rentals. Check to see if your credit card has any special holiday promotions, such as extra points or cashback on travel purchases. Combining these rewards with discount hotel deals or air fare discounts can help you save even more on your holiday travel.

11. Stay Close to Home with a Staycation

If the thought of braving holiday crowds and flight delays is too stressful, consider staying closer to home this holiday season. A staycation can be just as relaxing as a trip far away. You can book a last night hotel in a nearby city for a quick getaway without the hassle of long-distance travel. Many hotels offer special holiday packages that include meals, spa treatments, or excursions — all at a discounted rate. Look out for last minute hotel reservations deals to make your local escape even more affordable.

12. Book Flights and Hotels Together for Bundled Savings

Bundling your flights and hotels together can often lead to significant savings. When you book hotel tonight alongside your flight, you might be eligible for discounts that wouldn’t be available if booked separately. Travel platforms like Travel Fika often provide better deals when you bundle your travel plans. This also simplifies your itinerary, making it easier to manage everything in one place. Be sure to compare options before booking to ensure you're getting the best value for your holiday travel.

Conclusion

Holiday travel doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, using smart booking strategies, and being flexible, you can make your trip a breeze. Whether you're looking for the best app for cheap hotels, scoring a discount hotel, or securing tickets to fly, these tips will help you sleigh your holiday travel plans.

When you’re ready to book your next trip, be sure to check out Travel Fika for the best rates on flights and hotels. You can book directly through their app or speak to their travel experts at (855) 650-FIKA for personalized assistance. Happy travels, and may your holiday journey be as smooth as possible!

12 Ways to Sleigh Holiday Travel - FAQs

1. What are the best strategies for finding last-minute hotel reservations during the holidays? For last-minute hotel reservations, use travel apps like Travel Fika to quickly locate available rooms and take advantage of special deals. Booking late can sometimes result in discounted rates as hotels look to fill empty rooms.

2. How can I find cheap flights and airfare discounts for holiday travel? Start by booking early or staying flexible with your travel dates. Use platforms like Travel Fika to compare prices across airlines and search for bundled deals on flights and hotels.

3. Is it better to book flights and hotels separately or together? Bundling your flights and hotels together through travel platforms like Travel Fika can often lead to better discounts. Compare prices before booking to maximize your savings.

4. What’s the best way to stay organized during holiday travel? Using a travel app is a great way to manage your itinerary. Apps like Travel Fika can help keep track of your bookings, provide real-time updates on flight status, and notify you of any changes.

5. How can I get the best hotel discounts for a holiday stay? Booking directly with the hotel or using travel platforms that offer promotions like Travel Fika is a great way to find best hotel discounts. Look out for holiday specials and bundle deals to maximize savings.