In reviewing travel booking data from 2019 through 2021, AAA found most Thanksgiving travelers book flights a month or two before the holiday and get an average price. But flyers who wait to book less than a month before Thanksgiving get the best deals.

Those savings quickly evaporate for those who wait until Thanksgiving week to book, when the average ticket price shoots back up.

A traveler who books 28-60 days before Thanksgiving will pay an average of $543. That average decreases to $501 if booked 21-27 days ahead of the holiday. But the cheapest time to buy is seven to 14 days ahead of Thanksgiving, when the average ticket costs $474.

The week of Thanksgiving, the average ticket price rises to $525.

However, by waiting longer to book, you could be dealing with limited inventory and your ideal times or nonstop flights may be sold out.

Another factor to consider when looking for the best deal is what day to travel.

The Sunday before Thanksgiving is the most expensive day to travel, according to AAA data, with an average ticket price of $643. Thanksgiving itself is the cheapest day to fly, with an average ticket price of $475.

The average ticket prices rises as the holiday week goes on. On average, a Monday flight will cost $523; $577 on Tuesday; and $656 on Wednesday.

AAA booking data also found Tuesday is the busiest travel day during the Thanksgiving travel season. Given the current volatility of air travel, it’s a great time to consider working with an experienced AAA South Jersey travel agent (https://www.southjersey.aaa.com/search/agent?f%5B0%5D=field_agent_type%3A1476&f%5B1%5D=field_agent_type%3A2904) to guide you through the chaotic Thanksgiving travel period.

Don’t sweat a thing with a AAA Exclusive TripAssist travel insurance plan (https://www.southjersey.aaa.com/travel/protection). You can relax knowing you are protected in case of unexpected cancelations, travel delays, lost luggage and more