CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WHKY) — Waiting for a better travel deal could leave holiday travelers paying more. AAA says a new survey found 51% of North Carolina respondents had delayed booking a trip and later paid more than they would have by booking earlier.

In a September 28 news release, the organization encouraged travelers to begin planning Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s trips while more options remain available.

Budget concerns were the most common reason for delaying a booking, cited by 47% of respondents, followed by waiting for lower prices at 38%. Another 24% were waiting for family or friends to commit, while 20% cited concerns about weather or travel disruptions.

Among respondents who reported paying more after waiting, the survey’s overall breakdown showed 16% paid significantly more and 35% paid somewhat more.

AAA spokesperson Tiffany Wright said travelers do not need to book the first itinerary they find, but should begin researching options and comparing prices before choices become more limited.

Nearly one-quarter of respondents, 24%, said they begin planning holiday trips in September or October, while 8% wait until November or December. Staying within budget and finding the best price were the biggest sources of planning stress. Overspending was the most common regret, followed by waiting too long to book.

AAA recommends setting a budget, comparing travel dates, using fare alerts and considering trips before or after peak holiday weeks. Among travelers who prefer those off-peak periods, 53% cited fewer crowds, 51% lower prices and 38% less travel stress.

The online survey included 400 North Carolina adults and was conducted August 5–13, 2026. AAA reported a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percentage points for results covering all respondents.