As summer rolls on with pool parties and barbecues in full swing, savvy travelers are already turning their attention to pumpkins and fall foliage. Now is the prime time to plan those autumn vacations, securing the best deals before the rush begins.
Travel experts advise that the sweet spot for booking domestic flights, to avoid the inevitable spike in fares, is between 30 to 60 days before departure. For international trips, the window is even longer. Popular destinations like London and Paris can sometimes offer decent deals as close as three months out, but generally, the most attractive foreign fares are snagged five to six months ahead of travel.
A report from business consultancy McKinsey suggests that by the end of 2024, travel will have fully bounced back from the dramatic 75 percent drop seen in 2020. This rebound means a return to more familiar travel patterns. High travel seasons, which drive up prices, often align with school calendars, making the back-to-school season a relatively quiet and budget-friendly time for those who can take advantage.
“Fall is the second-best time of year to travel,” says Hayley Berg, an economist at the travel booking app Hopper. She notes that the cheapest time of year for airfare and hotel prices is January. “In fall, you typically save about 30 percent off peak summer prices. There are fewer crowds, and airports aren’t as busy, which helps reduce travel disruptions.”
In addition to lower costs and fewer hassles, fall often brings favorable weather. The combination of these factors makes autumn an ideal time to travel for those looking to avoid the high prices and crowded conditions of the peak summer months. As a result, now is the perfect time to start planning your fall vacation to ensure you get the best deals and the most enjoyable travel experience.
