December 23 revealed as cheapest day to fly from UK at Christmas

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 12:01 · Archive

Travel search engine KAYAK found December 23 offers the best value for international flights from the UK over Christmas 2026.

Travel search engine KAYAK has analysed flight data to identify the cheapest times to depart the UK for Christmas 2026. December 23 emerges as the sweet spot for international departures, with average return economy fares at £615. This represents a 36% saving compared with December 19, which is both the most searched and most expensive day to leave during the festive period.

Booking patterns show that securing flights six weeks before Christmas offers the best value, with prices rising by 15% in the final week before the holiday. Timing of departures plays a key role in securing cheaper fares. Those willing to fly on Christmas Eve could save even more, with average return fares dropping to £584.

For travellers departing after Christmas, New Year's Eve offers the lowest fares of the entire festive period at an average of £275. Rachel Mumford, UK travel expert at KAYAK, advised that flexibility over travel dates and destinations can help maximise savings. She suggested comparing nearby departure and return dates, and checking accommodation, transfers and baggage costs alongside airfares to establish the true total cost of travel.

December 23 revealed as cheapest day to fly from UK at Christmas — Image: Malvern Gazette

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How it is being reported

The best day to fly out from the UK this Christmas revealed by travel expertsThe travel search engine KAYAK has revealed the best day to fly out from the UK for Christmas 2026 in terms of costMalvern Gazette · 26 Oct, 11:29
The best day to fly out from the UK this Christmas revealed by travel expertsThe travel search engine KAYAK has revealed the best day to fly out from the UK for Christmas 2026 in terms of costWorcester News · 26 Oct, 11:29

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