THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
Thanksgiving and the Holidays are usually times of the year when Americans around the world travel to see loved ones, family and friends. According to Airlines for America, 2019's Thanksgiving was forecast to see 31.6 million passengers take to the skies with US airlines, a rise of 3.9% from 2018. Even more Americans were expected to use US airlines to travel for the 2019 Holiday season, with an estimated 47.5 million passengers, a 3% rise from the previous year. But with travel regulations, quarantine rules and other complications in play this year, it's important for those Americans looking to travel to plan ahead.
Anticipating the complexities, travel firm Expedia has published a useful set of tips and hints for Americans planning to travel during November or December. Although a 14 day quarantine still exists for Americans traveling to the UK, it is still possible to travel to Britain from North America. US Citizens and green card holders also remain able to travel back to the US.
Nisreene Atassi, Sr. Director at Expedia, explained that the firm are publishing the advice because "So many people rely on travel during the holidays and winter months – for relaxation, recreation, or as a time to reconnect with loved ones. Like so many other things this year, the holidays may not look the same. But for those who want or need to get away, we don't want the uncertainty and planning process to be a source of stress."
One of the main takeaways from the advice is that in 2020, planning and booking airfare early could help. Expedia report that "In past years, it wasn't unusual for those who booked holiday airfare more than 90 days out to pay more, not less than average. However, average ticket price trends this year indicate that getting an earlier start could potentially pay off."
The firm's advice goes on to say that "Looking at average ticket prices for the fall and holiday timeframe, airfare prices dip down in September before beginning to climb in early October through the end of the year. However, average ticket prices overall are still lower than last year, particularly over Thanksgiving. That means early birds will likely see some really great fares compared to last year."
Expedia's tips also include suggestions on booking accomodation and car rental.
To see the full list of tips, go to newsroom.expedia.com/2020-09-08-Everything-you-need-to-know-about-holiday-travel-in-2020