News you can use: Holiday travel does not have to break the bank

The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it can also be a challenging period for air travel due to high ticket prices. Garrett Scott, an assistant professor of economics at the University of Mississippi, explains that November through early January is a peak travel season, leading airlines to charge significantly more for tickets than during other times of the year.

According to Scott, the ticket prices peak in November and December, and the airlines price the tickets well for the demand that exists. However, smart travelers can still find bargains during this period by booking as early as possible, which is typically two or three months in advance. Booking earlier ensures that the ticket price accurately reflects the demand for the flight.

While prices may drop close to the departure date if demand doesn't meet the airline's expectations, it is more common for prices to rise as seats fill up. Scott advises against booking flights on "irregular days" such as the Wednesday or Tuesday before Thanksgiving, as well as avoiding flying on December 24. He also suggests considering staying a few extra days to potentially find better prices.

Flight times can also impact ticket prices, with earlier flights often being cheaper than later ones. Scott recommends avoiding booking tickets during business hours and instead trying to buy the ticket later in the evening or early in the morning when business travelers are less likely to be shopping.