As Christmas break approaches, airports near college towns are seeing a major spike in student travel. With the semester wrapping up, thousands of students are heading home to spend the holidays with family, creating one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Many students say ticket prices have risen as the break gets closer, especially for flights leaving at the end of finals week. Travel platforms report that holiday airfare is higher than last year, and students who waited to book flights are feeling the pressure.
At the same time, local airports and surrounding businesses are preparing for the rush. Shuttle services, rideshare drivers, and regional bus lines say the week before Christmas is consistently their busiest time.
“I booked my flight two months ago, and it was already expensive,” said sophomore Lauren Markus. “Everyone leaves on the same few days, so the prices go up fast. But it is worth it to go home and spend Christmas with my family.”
Administration at the university says the campus becomes quiet almost overnight. Dorms empty, parking lots clear out, and the student population drops as soon as finals end. Local restaurants and coffee shops also see slower business during the break.
Travel experts advise students to plan ahead, arrive early at airports, and consider traveling on less popular days. Midweek and late-night flights often cost less and move faster through security.
Weather is also a concern. December storms can cause flight delays across the country, especially in northern and midwestern regions where many students are traveling. Airlines encourage passengers to check flight status frequently and sign up for alerts.
Despite high prices and busy airports, most students say they look forward to the break. After months of classes, exams, and campus life, Christmas provides a chance to rest, reconnect, and reset before the spring semester begins.
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