The holidays are finally here, which means the busiest travel season of the year is upon us. If you're reading this, you probably haven't booked a trip yet. Whether you're craving a last-minute escape from the snow, or simply need to get out and explore someplace new, we've got the top tips and tricks for last-minute holiday travel in 2017.

Fly on the Actual Holiday to Save Money

Naturally, booking ahead is the best way save money. That may be off the table at this point, but that doesn't mean there aren't ways to avoid steep prices.

The best way to save money? Travel on the actual holiday. Booking your flight for Christmas or New Years Day will be a better bargain than leaving on the 22nd or 23rd of December.

The Worst Days to Travel in December Are the 22nd, 23rd and 24th

Do your best to avoid December 22-24; according to Smarter Travel, these are the worst days of the month for traveling.

When it comes to New Years, avoid Friday, December 29th and Tuesday, January 2nd.

Consider Air-Hotel Packages

Sure, things will always be more expensive around the holidays. But one way to lighten the blow to your wallet is to consider air-hotel packages.

Jump on Great Deals-- Fast!

If you see a good deal, jump on it. That doesn't mean not comparing prices—do your homework, but understand that deals will come and go extremely quickly this time of year. So if you see a good one, grab it.

According to cheapflights.com, airlines are required to hold a price or cancel a non-refundable ticket at least seven days in advance for 24 hours after the purchase. Buy the ticket, and then use the 24 hours to make sure you nabbed the best deal out there.

Cheapflights.com also recommends subscribing to these newsletters. If flash sales pop up, you'll be the first to know.

If you set up a price alert to receive notifications when prices rise and fall, you'll also likely grab the best ticket prices. Click here for info on how to use and download the Skyscanner app.

Tips for next Year

Skyscanner Data reports that this year, the best time to buy a Christmas flight was October 22.

The best time to buy a New Year's flight was the week of October 29. Keep this in mind for 2018; the early bird always gets the worm.