Absolute Worst Times to Buy Airline Tickets in Illinois

If you thought holiday travel was stressful before, strap in.  It's gotten even worse since the government shut down!

Staffing shortages.  Long TSA wait times.  Record high travel demand.  Not enough air traffic controllers.  All reasons why it's the worst time to buy airline tickets right now in Illinois.  Actually, everywhere in the country.

Read More: Illinois' Favorite Airport, According To Locals

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It's been a few weeks since the government shutdown, which has led to lots of stress at airports across the country.  Whether you're flying out of O'Hare, Midway, or Rockford, it'll be equally as chaotic.

Peak travel times, like December, Thanksgiving, and spring break, are always hectic.  But right now, booking last-minute flights within two weeks of your flight is even riskier.  Not only have ticket prices skyrocketed, but delays, and cancellations are more common than ever.  You could spend hours waiting on the runway or in crowded terminals, all because airlines are stretched thin trying to manage fewer staff than usual.

Weekends, especially Saturdays, are another trap.  That's when most people book flights, so airlines raise the prices.  With the added chaos of the government shutdown, a small delay can turn into hours stuck at the airport.  NOBODY WANTS THAT.  We have places to be and people to see!

So, if you're thinking about booking a flight soon these are the worst times to book.

Absolute Worst Times to Buy Airline Tickets in Illinois

• Within two weeks of your flight
• Weekends when prices skyrocket
• Peak holiday weeks (before or after Thanksgiving)
• Early December, late March, early April
• Flight times during high-demand hours

Read More: 5 Tips To Sleeping Peacefully On A Chicago O’Hare Flight 

If you really have to travel, you can't avoid the insane airline prices.  If you're strategic enough, you can find some really good deals!