As the holiday season approaches, travelers are contending with some of the highest travel costs seen in the last decade. CNBC reports that rising fuel prices are the primary driver behind the increased expenses for both air travel and road trips. To mitigate these costs, travel experts are advising consumers to adopt more strategic planning methods.

For those flying, experts suggest being flexible with travel dates to secure lower fares, as specific days remain significantly cheaper than others. For those driving, the focus is on finding relief at the pump through fuel-saving apps and route planning. The core advice across the board is to avoid last-minute bookings and to utilize digital comparison tools to track price fluctuations. While the report highlights the financial strain on the average American household, it emphasizes that careful preparation can help manage the impact of current economic conditions on holiday plans.