What's Happening?
KAYAK has released data indicating a notable increase in holiday travel interest for 2025, with airfares and travel-related costs either stable or declining. Flight search data reveals a 10% increase in holiday trip interest compared to 2024, with international flight prices decreasing by 7% and domestic flight prices dipping by 1%. Eastern Europe has emerged as a popular destination, with cities like Warsaw and Prague experiencing significant increases in flight searches. The introduction of new flight routes and Romania and Bulgaria's inclusion in the Schengen Area have made this region more accessible to U.S. travelers seeking affordable, culturally rich winter escapes.
Why It's Important?
The increase in holiday travel interest and the decline in airfares present
opportunities for travelers to secure affordable trips. Eastern Europe's popularity highlights the region's appeal as a culturally rich and accessible destination. The data suggests that travelers can find deals if they remain flexible with travel dates and destinations. The trend of declining airfares, coupled with increased interest, indicates a positive outlook for the travel industry, potentially boosting tourism and economic activity in popular destinations.
What's Next?
As holiday travel interest continues to rise, travelers are encouraged to take advantage of Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday for the lowest fares of the season. KAYAK has identified cost-effective departure days, such as November 24 for Thanksgiving and December 24 for Christmas, offering quieter airports and lower prices. The travel industry may see further developments in flight routes and pricing strategies to accommodate the growing demand for affordable holiday travel.
