“Travel Tuesday,” the Tuesday after Cyber Monday, prime time for travel deals, is a golden ticket for your next post-Thanksgiving trip. If you are looking for ways to save on airfare, this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Travel Tuesday, how to take advantage of it, and if it’s really worth waiting for. Let’s explore the best ways to secure affordable flights on this often-overlooked holiday!

Holiday trip essentials to carry with you during the holidays — Anete Lusina

When is Travel Tuesday?

Travel Tuesday falls on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, typically the first Tuesday following Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Timing is key here, as many airlines and travel companies release their best flight deals and discounted tickets around this time. Travel Tuesday is part of the extended post-Thanksgiving sales period, which also includes Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but with a hyper-focused offer for travelers seeking budget-friendly flights. Airlines often offer deals on international and domestic flights, as well as last-minute travel deals.

Is Travel Tuesday Real?

Yes, Travel Tuesday is very much real! It has grown in popularity over the years, with many major airlines and travel booking websites announcing special promotions and discounts specifically for this day. While not every airline participates, most of the big names in the industry – including American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest – offer discounted ticket prices.

The competitive nature of the airlines prompts carriers to capitalize on the shopping frenzy following Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Keep in mind that these travel prices might be limited, so it’s a good idea to act quickly if you see a fare that fits your travel plans.

How Does Travel Tuesday Work?

Travel Tuesday is the day airlines and travel agencies typically release discounted fares that are often up to 30% cheaper than regular prices. Travel Leisure reports American Airlines has dozens of flights under $200. The deals tend to focus on domestic flights, but you’ll have the opportunity to find international airline tickets as well, particularly to popular destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.

Here’s how you can make the most out of it:

Set alerts: Sign up for email alerts from airlines or travel websites to get the latest updates.
Compare fares: Use flight comparison tools to compare prices from multiple airlines.
Book early: Travel Tuesday deals often have a limited window, so book your tickets fast once you find a good price.

Is It Worth Waiting for Travel Tuesday?

If you’re hoping to secure the cheapest flight following Thanksgiving, here is a great opportunity. However, remember that not every fare will be the best available. Sometimes, flights on Travel Tuesday might still be more expensive than what you could find with other sales or by booking in advance.

To maximize savings, be flexible with your dates. Travel Tuesday deals are often for specific travel dates, so flexibility can help you score better discounts. As well, it pays to book in advance. While last-minute deals are great, booking ahead of time can sometimes save you more.

When Do Travel Tuesday Deals Start?

Travel Tuesday deals typically start at midnight, so be prepared to grab discounted flights as soon as the clock strikes twelve with a cup of coffee in hand. Some airlines may release deals earlier in the day, or even as early as the night before, so it’s always productive to be on the lookout early. If you’re serious about getting the best deal, it’s a good idea to set a reminder to start looking for flights as early as possible. This will ensure you don’t miss out on time-sensitive airfare savings.

Most airlines will offer deals for 24 hours or until supplies run out, but there may be flash sales or price drops throughout the week. This travel holiday often focuses on specific destinations, so if you’re flexible with your itinerary, you can take advantage of even more options.

Final Travel Tuesday Thoughts

If you’re looking to book cheap flights for your next Thanksgiving trip, Travel Tuesday is an excellent day to snag a deal. Set those price alerts and be ready to act fast. The best deals do not last long. Safe travels and happy booking!