That’s the spirit.
Between scoring touchdowns, goals and last-minute gifts, there’s no shortage of things to celebrate this month. Like our top price hacks to get the most out of your holiday car rental and great gifts to give the traveler in your life. Scroll for stories that’ll get you in the (travel) spirit.
The pre-check
The week’s latest travel stories and news.
- REALly though.
Remember last week when we talked about the Real ID deadline approaching? Well, scratch that – the DHS has postponed it to 2025.
- Face it.
By “it” we mean some new tech – TSA has been testing facial recognition software at 16 US airports to see if it could simplify and streamline security.
- Go with the (lava) flow.
Hawaii’s slow travel season was reignited when the world’s largest volcano in Hilo erupted for the first time in nearly 40 years.
- Do you have service?
EU regulators recently made it so travelers could use their phones while in flight – here’s why the FAA still prefers using airplane mode.
- Trains over planes.
France is cutting flight emissions – the EU Commission approved banning domestic flights where train alternatives are available.
Trending travel
Dashing through the roads
Pro of driving to your holiday destination: not having to deal with the airport. Con: figuring out where to get a car… and having to actually drive. While we can’t help you with the driving part, we can help you find a rental and ways to save some money. Based on our recent data, here’s what to expect* if you’re renting a ride to your holiday celebrations:
- Expect lower prices.
It doesn’t matter if you’re staying local or going abroad, rides will cost less than they did last holiday season. When comparing prices year over year, international rentals are 6% cheaper and domestic rental prices are 17% cheaper.
- Best domestic rental dates.
For non-New Years holidays, the sooner you drive the better – our numbers show that the cheapest day to start your rental is on 12/19 with a median price of $64 a day. For New Year’s road trips, the cheapest day to rent a car is on New Year’s Eve.
- Best international rental dates.
For those leaving the country to celebrate, the best day to book your rented ride is on 12/23 for a median price of $58 a day. Need a way to get around before then? Car rentals starting between 12/17 and 12/21 will probably cost less than $60 a day.
- Bottom line: Drivers get deals.
With many travelers opting to fly this season, interest in driving to holiday destinations has declined. Overall, searches for domestic rentals are down 26% and searches for international rentals are down 8% – resulting in savings for those who choose to drive.
Tricks of the trade
What to get the traveler in your life
Know someone who’s always “just heading to the airport”? We asked our team what’s been their favorite items from this past year, so you know what to get the traveler in your life. Check out our 2022 holiday gift guide.
Social shoutouts
In honor of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we recently partnered with @annieelainey to learn her tips for traveling with a disability – check out her video for the full details.
Links in this Newsletter are for informational purposes only, and there is no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by or with KAYAK Software Corporation whatsoever.
*Methodology: KAYAK US considered rental car searches for 7/1-12/3/2022 for travel dates 12/1-12/31/2022. For comparative data, the same search and travel dates were used in 2021.
