Travel Tuesday could be considered commercialism’s latest lovechild, but the new holiday booking spree is also representative of consumers’ desires to spend money on experiences instead of physical belongings. An increasing number of us value experiences over materialism, seeking out new destinations instead of the latest hair dryer in a reverse of the Keeping up with the Joneses mentality.
“Studies continue to show that people are more interested in spending on experiences over things,” says Melanie Fish, vice president of global communications at Expedia Group. “That’s true in everyday life and certainly around the holidays.”
When is Travel Tuesday?
Travel Tuesday always falls on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving in the US, which is the fourth Thursday of November. This year, Travel Tuesday falls on December 3, 2024.
What are the best deals?
As with the best retail deals, it depends on what you’re looking for. Expedia is offering 30% off stays at select hotels (just be sure to book by December 4); at Booking.com, deals are as high as 50% off. On the cruise front, lines like Celebrity, MSC, Oceania, and HX are running offers, some of which extend into the first week or two of December, giving you a bit more time to finalize your plans. If you’re looking to book a tour, EF Go Ahead Tours is offering up to $800 off select packages for 2025 and 2026 trips.
Browse our list of the top Travel Tuesday sales to see even more deals on hotels, flights, cruises, packages, and tours.
The trips editors are booking on Travel Tuesday
Jamie Spain, travel bookings editor
“I’ve been looking forward to a trip to Iceland for a few years, and since this year is the best for spotting the northern lights, I’m planning on heading there during the winter months to see it in its full glory. Luckily, PLAY is offering up to 30% off flights to Iceland from New York, so I can save on airfare. Once there, I’m eyeing a few great properties with excellent Travel Tuesday deals, like Hotel Borg (one of our top hotels in Reykjavik and a 2022 Readers’ Choice Award winner).”
Emily Adler, associate social media manager
“I’m eyeing a 2025 trip to Anguilla. Booking.com and Expedia are both having really great deals on hotels, so I’m trying to book ahead for spring, ideally at the Four Seasons or Aurora.”
Kayla Brock, associate social media manager
