• AAA recommends planning holiday trips early to avoid rising airfares driven by potential fuel price increases.
• Delaying reservations often backfires, as 49% of surveyed travelers who waited later paid higher prices.
• Traveling just before or after peak holiday weeks helps reduce expenses, crowds, and travel stress.
• Working with a professional travel agent provides valuable assistance for complex, international, or multi-country itineraries

As summer comes to a close, smart travelers are already turning their attention toward upcoming holiday adventures for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. According to a recent AAA survey, starting your vacation planning right now is the best way to secure greater flexibility, wider availability, and better choices. While many people delay booking due to budget concerns or the hope of finding lower prices later, waiting often leads to higher costs and added stress. Rising fuel prices can put additional pressure on airfares, making proactive planning more important than ever.

Waiting for last-minute deals frequently backfires, with nearly half of delayed bookers ultimately paying more than they would have initially. To avoid common regrets like overspending, experts recommend establishing a clear budget, comparing multiple dates, and locking in your itinerary early. Travelers can also stretch their budgets and enjoy a more peaceful experience by scheduling trips just before or after peak holiday weeks, which helps reduce crowds and lower overall expenses.

Partnering with a professional travel advisor can further streamline the process, especially for complex international itineraries, multi-country journeys, or large family trips. Advisors have access to exclusive options and insider deals that everyday shoppers might miss entirely. By researching choices, setting price alerts, and making decisions before inventory dwindles, you can eliminate planning anxiety and look forward to a seamless holiday season. Take control of your vacation plans today and set the stage for a wonderful, stress-free getaway.