Spending $800 to see my family this Thanksgiving is a financial burden. How can I push for a cheaper flight?

A MarketWatch “Dollar Signs” advice column tackled a reader’s frustration about spending about $800 each Thanksgiving to visit family because relatives choose cheaper destinations. The writer said their concern gets dismissed as a money problem, despite being financially independent. The columnist advised focusing on a direct conversation about travel planning and not letting others define the narrative. It noted that holiday airfare is typically expensive, and that experts recommend booking Thanksgiving and Christmas travel early. Kayak data showed September airfare prices were nearly 36% higher than at the start of the year—$394 vs. $290. The column also highlighted that flying on the holiday itself can be cheaper than surrounding days, and cited NerdWallet analysis suggesting less crowded travel days can bring lower prices or better nonstop options. Jet-fuel costs were described as elevated.