In this series, Lonely Planet writers and editors answer your travel questions and provide tips and tricks to help you plan an easy trip. Chris Zeiher, one of Lonely Planet’s best correspondents in Australia and a brand ambassador, explains the high prices for flights during the holiday season and offers tips on how to save money.
Chris Zeiher Australian domestic flight prices tend to rise during December, as Aussies travel to see family and friends for the Christmas holidays – also the peak summer season. Domestic flight prices were high throughout the year. This makes the annual spike even more noticeable as we approach year-end.
Three factors are at play in the recent price increases.
1. Pent-up demand. This is the first holiday period since 2019 without any internal border closures. Australians love to visit family and friends, so they travel far.
2. Reduced capacity. Australia now has fewer domestic flights than it did before the pandemic. This is unlikely to change for another 12-18 months. Prices will remain high.
3. Soaring fuel prices. Fuel prices have risen around the globe. The airlines pass these increases on to the travelers via higher prices.
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But all is not lost. Here are some tips to reduce these costs.
1. Many Australians have airline vouchers or credits with Qantas or Virgin Australia. These credits were earned, for instance, when flights were canceled due to the pandemic. Check the expiration date of these vouchers and redeem them. This is money that you have already spent and can save.
2. You should try to avoid early morning or late evening flights if you can. If you are able to work remotely, consider traveling before the Christmas and New Year holidays.
3. Consider postponing your travel until January. Book your flights for mid-late January when domestic airfares are more affordable. It is the peak of summer in Australia and the middle of the school holidays.
4. As far as possible, book your trip. Australia’s cheap travel days are long gone (alas!) The further in advance you book, the better for your wallet.
5. Get in the car and go. The Great Aussie Summer Road Trip is a great way to discover the country. Sharing driving duties and costs with family and friends can help you save money.
6. Book your tickets for the bus or train as soon as you can.
7. Check out every airline. It’s important to compare fares across all major airlines. If a layover can lower the cost, consider it. Qantas JetStar, Virgin Australia, Rex Airlines, and other airlines offer services between Australian capitals and regional centers.