Don't wait any longer to book your July 4 flights, advises travel expert.

It's time to take the plunge and book a July 4 travel deal if you've been waiting until the last minute.

As Independence Day nears, it's unlikely that prices will improve. According to Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going, waiting for a super-cheap flight may not be the best strategy.

"She says that it's more likely the case that the flight actually goes up by 50% instead of waiting for a magic cheap flight to drop in price by 50%."

The TSA reported that Sunday, June 23 was its busiest travel day ever, and it anticipates screening more than 32 million domestic travelers between June 27 and July 8 during the ongoing record-breaking travel season.

Airlines typically do not reduce their prices before a busy travel day, as there is often no incentive to do so. In fact, prices may even increase.

She suggests taking advantage of the fact that you need a ticket, particularly during the July 4 holiday, which is expected to be one of the busiest on record.

Instead, now is the time to be forward-thinking about your travel plans.

""During the Goldilocks window, it's recommended to look and book for winter holiday flights at a better price than for the July 4 holiday," she advises."

When booking a last-minute flight, it's important to consider a few factors.

1. There's no 'right' place to search for flights

It is not true that there exists a website that offers lower prices than any other.

"Nastro states that it doesn't matter whether one uses Google Flights, Skyscanner, or the airline website directly; it all comes down to personal preference."

Nastro recommends travelers use whichever flight search service they feel most comfortable with, as she herself prefers Google Flights due to its flexibility in adjusting search criteria.

2. One-way flights are your friend

One way to save money when traveling is to search for one-way flights instead of focusing solely on round trip deals, according to Nastro.

Booking a round-trip flight through your preferred airline could lead to higher costs.

Nastro says that being tied to one airline restricts your flexibility to explore other options.

Your miles program status may not benefit from searching for one-way flights and considering various airlines, but your wallet will appreciate it.

She advises prioritizing affordable flights over status.

3. Try to avoid checking a bag

"If possible, avoid checking a bag to save money and avoid waiting in another long line, advises Nastro."

To avoid long lines at the airport during record-breaking travel days, Nastro suggests traveling with only a carry-on bag.

To avoid any potential headaches caused by issues with your trip, this strategy will protect you.

"If your connecting flight or next part of your itinerary gets cancelled or significantly delayed, your bag will still arrive at your final destination, providing an added layer of stress you don't want to deal with."

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