Many people are already thinking about their holiday travel in 2025, and it could shape up to be a busy and expensive travel season. Airlines have raised fares compared with last year, and carriers have increased baggage fees and cut back routes this year.
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To see what pitfalls travelers should be watching for, GOBankingRates asked ChatGPT to list the biggest holiday travel mistakes. Its answers matched many of the warnings experts are giving this year.
Also see four tips for financially smart travel in 2025.
Waiting Too Long To Book Flights
ChatGPT put procrastination at the top of the list. Holiday airfare is already running higher in 2025, with ticket prices up about 6% year over year, as reported by ABC News.
Prices tend to spike sharply within 50 days of departure, leaving little chance of last-minute deals. Booking closer to eight weeks in advance is the safest way to avoid paying a premium.
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Forgetting How Expensive Fees Have Become
Finding a decent fare is only half the battle. Baggage fees can turn a “cheap” holiday ticket into a budget buster.
In 2025, many airlines rolled out higher baggage fees, with many carriers moving to a $40 charge for the first checked bag. That may not sound like much, but multiply it across a family of four heading home for Christmas, and you’re adding hundreds of dollars to the trip.
ChatGPT flagged this as one of the easiest holiday mistakes to avoid. Travel light with carry-ons or budget the fees in advance so you’re not blindsided at the airport.
Skipping Travel Insurance
Holiday travel is stressful enough without the risk of getting stranded. Yet, many people still skip travel insurance to save a few dollars.
In 2025, that decision looks riskier than ever. Reuters reported demand for premium travel insurance is rising as more travelers brace for flight cancellations, delays and extreme weather.
ChatGPT said that with winter storms and crowded airports making the holidays especially vulnerable to disruptions, a $30 to $50 policy can provide peace of mind, as long as you read the fine print to understand what’s covered.
Looking Only at Major Airports
Big hubs like the John F. Kennedy International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport are always hectic. However, during the holidays, they can become gridlocked.
In 2025, some airlines have trimmed some schedules, which means fewer available seats and longer wait times at major airports. Secondary airports could be a lifeline.
ChatGPT said that flying into secondary airports might save you both money and hours of stress when traveling for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Hoping for Last-Minute Deals
Finally, ChatGPT was clear: Holiday bargains don’t work the same way as off-season travel.
According to ChatGPT, analysts say advanced bookings are no longer optional. With strong demand and fewer routes in 2025, waiting almost guarantees higher fares.
The Bottom Line
ChatGPT’s advice lines up with what travel experts are warning for 2025: This holiday season will be crowded, costly and unforgiving for procrastinators.
The best way to save isn’t a secret deal. It’s avoiding these mistakes by booking early, staying flexible and budgeting for fees. Skip the pitfalls, and your holiday trip might actually feel like a vacation.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked ChatGPT for the Biggest Holiday Travel Mistakes To Avoid in 2025
