As the festive season is fast approaching, we ask, are you flying this Christmas – perhaps from the diaspora to visit family and friends back home? Read this before you book your season’s flight.
Nigerians love to travel, especially during Christmas, New Year, Easter, and summer. But these peak holiday seasons often bring stress, inflated prices, and crowded airports. If you plan to travel, you must prepare smartly.
Peak season travel can be exciting but also overwhelming. “Flights get sold out faster, queues become longer, and costs rise sharply,” a travel consultant in Lagos explained. To avoid disappointment, book your tickets early. Airlines usually release the cheapest seats months in advance.
Plan and Book Early
Waiting until the last minute is risky. Flight prices can double within weeks. Hotel rooms also vanish quickly in popular cities like Dubai, London, or Accra.
By booking at least three months ahead, you save money and secure your preferred times.
Travel During Off-Peak Hours
Choosing flights on weekdays or at night can cut costs. Many Nigerians rush to travel on Fridays and Sundays, driving prices up.
If you can, fly midweek. The same applies to buses and trains in other countries.
Check Visa and Passport Validity
Immigration officers in Lagos and Abuja have turned back travelers with expired documents. Always confirm your passport has at least six months’ validity.
Apply for visas early; embassies delay more during peak months.
Stay Aware of Hidden Costs
Peak season often means higher baggage fees, expensive airport meals, and costly transfers.
Nigerians travelling abroad should budget extra. Sometimes, local transport at your destination doubles in price during holidays.
Consider Travel Insurance
Many ignore insurance, but peak travel brings higher risk of lost luggage and delays. Travel insurance protects you from paying out of pocket.
Premiums are affordable, starting from ₦10,000 depending on coverage.
Expect Delays and Crowds
Be patient. Long queues at Murtala Muhammed International Airport are common during Christmas. Arrive at least three hours early for international flights.
“Rushing into the airport 30 minutes before departure is asking for trouble,” one airline staff warned.
Alternative Destinations Can Save You
Instead of fighting for tickets to top destinations like Dubai, there are many other options to explore, such as Accra, Kigali, or Zanzibar.
Africa has plenty of underrated gems. You’ll save money and still enjoy a memorable holiday.
For official travel advisories, see updates from the U.S. State Department and International Air Transport Association.
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