Amazing airfare deals during the holiday dead zones

This time of year, most travelers are focusing on holiday trips. But it’s also the perfect time to think about “me” trips, thanks to a couple of major deal zones just around the corner. These windows bracketing the upcoming holidays offer some incredibly cheap flights both to nearby cities and trip-of-a-lifetime destinations.

Finding the deals

For November, look during the first two weeks of the month, before Thanksgiving travel begins. Ditto for December, where the best deals are found from the beginning of the month through the 15th (when the Christmas/New Year’s crowds start flying).

Here are some basics to finding the cheapest deal zone fares:

1. Always compare prices. Don’t forget a quick visit to Southwest, the only airline that doesn’t share fare data.

2. Try to fly at least one midweek day or a Saturday. Other days of the week can be significantly more expensive.

3. Use a tool that finds cheapest days of a month or season. My site has such a tool, but there are other booking sites with a similar function.

Deep discounts to great destinations

The following round-trip fares were found Oct. 19 for travel in either early November or early December.

Deals under $75

• Chicago to Houston, $71
• Dallas to Denver, $48
• Fort Lauderdale to Denver, $69
• Los Angeles to Las Vegas, $65
• New York to Cincinnati, $69

Deals under $150

• Chicago to San Diego, $117
• Dallas to Miami, $111
• Fort Lauderdale to Boston, $125
• Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, $137
• New York to Dallas, $139

Deals around $350

• Chicago to Berlin, $353
• Dallas to San Jose Cabo, $303
• Fort Lauderdale to Paris, $353
• Los Angeles to Stockholm, $318
• New York to Zurich, $377

Might be a good time to start shopping.

FareCompare CEO Rick Seaney is an airline industry insider and top media air travel resource. Follow Rick (@rickseaney) and never overpay for airfare again.