How to get a good deal on airline tickets during the holidays

My wife recently loacted relatives on her father's side that she hasn't seen since she was a child. So, she's decided that she wants to fly to Mobile, Alabama for Christmas. I got online and compared airfare from several sites and most of the tickets were around $400.

Anyway, I was just wondering if anyone has any tips on how we could get a better deal on airfare during the Christmas rush? 

Back in August I decided to take a spontaneous trip to see my Mom in Florida. On only 2 days notice I booked 3 round trip tickets for $289 each. I booked through Hotwire.com and since you have a bit more notice, you might do fairly well still.

Are there better days to travel on? I mean, is it cheaper to travel on the 22nd than the 24th?

Are there better days to travel on? I mean, is it cheaper to travel on the 22nd than the 24th?

No but it is cheaper if you stay past a Saturday. For example it's cheaper to go Friday and come back Sunday, than if you flew out on a Tuesday and came back on a Thursday.

I compared the rates to fly during the holidays with regular rates and there seems to be about a $75 increase for the trip. Whats really funny is the rate to travel by air during the holidays was around $400 and the cost to take a bus was $350.

Would it be wrong for me to put my wife on a bus for 18 hours to save $50?      I wouldn't really do that but the thought of it was amusing.

Would it be wrong for me to put my wife on a bus for 18 hours to save $50?

Not at all. Round trip that's about 30 hours more of peace and quiet for you versus her flying. The $50 saved is just an added bonus.