As the 2025 holiday season approaches, travelers are planning their trips with new priorities in mind—seeking more meaningful, sustainable, and personalized experiences. According to Google’s holiday travel trends report, key trends are shaping how people prepare for holidays this year, including popular destinations for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
Early Planning and Local Travel on the Rise
Based on Google Flights data for 2025, more travelers are booking their trips earlier to secure the best deals and choices.
For Thanksgiving, flights tend to have the lowest prices when booked about 35 days in advance, slightly earlier than last year’s 45-day recommendation. Christmas travel requires even more advance planning, with the ideal booking window around 51 days ahead. This shift toward earlier booking helps avoid last-minute stress and often results in significant savings.
Domestic flights should ideally be booked roughly 39 days in advance, while international trips require booking at least 49 days ahead for the best rates. Choosing flights with layovers can save travelers approximately 22% compared to nonstop flights, and flying on Monday through Wednesday is around 13% cheaper than weekend travel, according to Google Flights data.
Alongside smarter timing, many travelers are opting for regional and domestic destinations, favoring experiences closer to home to reduce their environmental footprint and support local economies.
Focus on Wellness and Authentic Experiences
Holiday travel in 2025 is increasingly about wellness and meaningful, immersive experiences rather than just sightseeing. Travelers prioritize getaways that nurture physical and mental well-being, such as nature retreats, wellness-focused vacations, and deep cultural connections, aiming to create lasting memories while boosting personal health.
Sustainability Influences Travel Choices
Sustainability is now a key factor affecting travel decisions. According to Google Flights data, about 40% of travelers filter for eco-friendly travel options, reflecting the growing demand for responsible tourism. Many seek accommodations, transport, and activities that respect local ecosystems and communities.
Trending Holiday Destinations
Google reports that certain cities and regions are gaining popularity this season due to their festive appeal or unique offerings around Christmas and New Year’s. Popular domestic Thanksgiving destinations include Columbia (SC), Bozeman (MT), Spokane (WA), Detroit (MI), and Omaha (NE). International hotspots gaining traction are Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), St. Lucia, Marrakech (Morocco), Tel Aviv (Israel), and Curaçao.
For travelers seeking to celebrate with a lower environmental impact, consider destinations and accommodations that prioritize sustainability and positive community engagement. For ideas, explore Dyme’s top picks for new travel experiences in 2025, featuring eco-friendly stays and authentic activities.
In 2025, holiday travel is driven by growing awareness, thoughtful planning, and a desire for meaningful connections with people and places. Staying informed about the latest travel trends can help make trips more enjoyable and responsible. For expert insights and sustainable travel options, Dyme provides guidance to help travelers make choices that benefit both themselves and the planet.
