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Looking at Travelocity's Thanksgiving travel data, I can tell you that the average domestic airfare is $361, but taking a deeper dive into the number reveals a much more informative story for travelers who are trying to save a buck. A day-by-day analysis of flight bookings from Nov. 22 thru Dec.1 shows a dramatic swing in airfares, going from $280 to $459 depending on what days you fly.

Check out average domestic airfares on the chart below to determine which travel days may be cheapest for you.

Thanksgiving Airfare Analysis
The most expensive days to take a return flight are the Sunday and Monday after Thanksgiving, when costs have been inflated by major airlines implementing holiday surcharges. The costliest flight itineraries a passenger can purchase ($459 on average) are for departure on Nov. 22 and return Nov. 29 or for departure on Nov. 25 and return on Nov. 29. Adjust plans to depart Nov. 26 and return Dec. 1, staying just one extra day, and the average fare drops to $280.

Thanksgiving Airfare

 

Thanksgiving Hotel Rate Analysis
While average hotel rates don't change greatly around the holiday weekend, they are down 16 percent from last year. Unlike Thanksgiving airfares, which have increased substantially when compared to fall travel costs, average nightly hotel rates are on par with rates this fall, averaging $131 for the duration of the holiday.

 

Money Saving Tricks

  • Be flexible on dates. When you fly is one of the most important money-saving factors. Start your search by figuring out the smartest days to travel. It's easy.
  • Consider surrounding airports. In major metropolitan areas there are often several airports, and prices can vary dramatically at each. Follow these steps.
  • Bundle everything together and save. Buy a Flight + Hotel or even Flight + Hotel + Car package and save $315 on average per person.

For more money saving tricks, visit Travelocity's Insider's Guide.

Find me on Twitter @jenngaines, or follow @windowseatblog.