Delta's short-term booking rate increased 35 points over the same period in 2012.

WSJ: Frequent-Flier Miles: Best Airlines for Cashing In

She said she also got a better rate by booking a seat on one of the earliest trains to Washington, where she was going to spend the holiday with her family and attend her 20th high school reunion.

NPR: Americans Take Off for Thanksgiving

Unlike rival HotelTonight, Booking.com Tonight has a rate guarantee.

BBC: A boom in same-day hotel booking apps