Thanksgiving Travel: How to Find Cheap Airfare

By RICK SEANEY (@rickseaney) , CEO of FareCompare

Sept. 21, 2012

PHOTO: Expect a lot of competition for the

Expect a lot of competition for the "best" flights, particularly if you plan on traveling the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (Nov. 21) and the Sunday or Monday afterwards (Nov. 25, 26). (Getty Images)

There is a distinct advantage to middle-age: People come to you for the holidays. At this stage of your life, you've got the space and the kids so you suck in the grandparents and don't forget all those college students heading for home. Sure, you'll fuss over the bird, but no stressing over the cost and chaos of flying.

As for the rest of us who must fly this Thanksgiving, some practical advice:

PHOTO: Expect a lot of competition for the "best" flights, particularly if you plan on traveling the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (Nov. 21) and the Sunday or Monday afterwards (Nov. 25, 26).

Getty Images

Expect a lot of competition for the "best"... View Full Size

Getty Images

Expect a lot of competition for the "best" flights, particularly if you plan on traveling the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (Nov. 21) and the Sunday or Monday afterwards (Nov. 25, 26).

For more travel news and insights view Rick's blog at farecompare.com

First, don't just sit there - shop! If you're picky about flights, meaning you must travel certain days and/or certain times of day, you should have bought your tickets yesterday. Okay, a slight exaggeration, but you really must get on this.