The tried-and-true method get the best deal when you’re travelling over summer is to travel on Christmas Day, says Justin Brownjohn, operations manager at the RMIT Aviation Academy and a former network controller for major airlines.

“Domestic travel goes crazy in the days leading up to Christmas. And then international travel is popular from Boxing Day and into the New Year. If you’re looking for a relatively stress-free day of travel, and to make some savings, the sweet spot is December 25th itself, ” he says.

“For example, a one-way flight from Melbourne to London on Christmas Day with one major airline costs $1684. The same fare is more expensive across the festive season, including on Boxing Day. If you were to book in the New Year, it would cost almost 70 per cent more.

“Beyond the savings, it’s often far less stressful to travel on Christmas Day. People are in a festive mood and there’s a shared sense of community at airports for those working and travelling. There’s also a feeling of gratitude to staff who are working to keep airlines flying over Christmas.”

Dr Angel Zhong is RMIT associate professor in finance, who specialises in global financial markets, behaviour and trends, says dynamic pricing taps into the urgency and emotions of the holiday season, knowing many travellers are willing to pay more to reunite with loved ones.

“This makes it crucial to stick to a budget and avoid spur-of-the-moment purchases,” she says.

“For budget-conscious travellers, the unpredictability of airfare changes can be tough. Tools like price alerts and fare trackers can help manage costs and avoid surprises.

“Planning ahead, being flexible with dates, and considering alternative airports can also make a big difference.

“Airlines adjust prices in real-time based on demand, seat availability, and competition. Over the festive season, surging demand often leads to sharp price increases, leaving late bookers to bear the brunt.”