Looking to get in early with your holiday travel bookings in order to save a few dollars on flights?
Many people are, and this week, Google has shared some new data on the most popular travel destinations of 2025, based on Google Search volume thus far, while it’s also provided tips on the best times to book to save the most money, in relation to pricing trends.
Which, if you’re working in the travel sector, could be highly valuable information for your campaign planning.
First off, on top destinations based on user searches. Google has provided two listings, one for U.S. domestic travel:
And the other for international destinations for Christmas and New Year’s:
So if you’re looking to pitch the best travel deals of the season, this is where people are looking to go, while retailers could also look to pitch related products based on these destinations.
I mean, it’s not rocket science to assume that beach destinations will pretty much always be a winner, but the specifics here could help you build more resonant, engaging campaigns.
In addition to this, Google has also shared some tips on when to book, and how to save the most money with your travel bookings.
First, Google notes that its new AI-powered Flight Deals tool can find the best process for you, based on when and where you want to travel.
While Google has also provided some general guidance, based on current market trends, as to when the best time to book might be:
- Domestic flights – Lowest prices have been 39 days before departure (23-51 days is the low price range).
- International flights – Lowest prices have been 49 days or more before departure.
- Thanksgiving – Lowest prices have been 35 days before departure (24-59 days is the low price range).
- Christmas – Lowest prices have been 51 days before departure (32-73 days is the low price range.
- Spring break – Lowest prices for trips in March or April have been 43 days before departure (28-61 days is the low price range).
- Summer vacation – Lowest prices for trips in July or August have been 21 days before departure (14-43 days is the low price range).
- Trips to Europe – Lowest prices for trips to Europe have been 48 days or more before departure.
Google is careful to note that these are general guides, and they don’t account for last-minute deals being offered for key destinations.
But as a general planner, these tips could help you find the best prices for your upcoming holiday, while again, travel-related marketers could glean valuable insight from these notes for their own offers and promotions.
