AAA says if you’re looking to travel this holiday season, book now

The holiday season of 2022 is finally upon us and if you’re looking to book holiday airline travel for these next three months, according to WPVI, AAA suggests the time to do it is now.

As we all know, it’s been a stressful summer travel season marred with delayed and cancelled flights, along with skyrocketing prices. With those issues in mind, travel experts have a playbook to follow if you want to save money and avoid travel headaches.

The thing is, if you’ve traveled lately, then you’re well aware of airline prices being at record highs and the inventory is low.

But, according to the news outlet, that’s not going to change heading into the busy holiday season, unfortunately.

So, the time to book is now.

“Inventory is plentiful now and you have a better chance of getting what you want, the seats that you want and the flights that you want,” says Jana Tidwell, a spokesperson for AAA. “Right now, there’s much better pricing than if you wait closer to the holidays.”

Regarding the delays and cancellations that have plagued travelers all summer, per WPVI, AAA suggests padding your vacation if you can, meaning flying out a day or two earlier if you have an appointment or event, like a cruise, on the other end.

According to the news outlet, travel experts also suggest taking the first flight out in the morning.

“If you get on that flight and get to your destination early, then you’re ahead,” Tidwell says. “But if something were to happen with that flight, then you have the rest of the day and increased chances of getting out to your destination on that same day.”

But on the other hand, if you’re on a later flight and it gets canceled, it could be a day or two before you get re-booked.

AAA says right now we should always get travel insurance, it’s paying for itself when it comes to lost baggage, delays and other expenses, WPVI reported.

Additionally, not only should we download the airline’s app, but we should also always check in 24 hours before a flight.

“It sounds silly because when you have a ticket, they should know that you’re coming,” Tidwell says. “But many flights are still overbooked, so check in at least 24 hours in advance to officially reserve your seat.”

Read more via WPVI.