Ah, fall—the season of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and the perfect travel opportunities. If you’ve been itching for a getaway but dread the chaos of summer or the high prices of winter holiday travel, it’s time to reconsider your plans. From mid-September through November, fall travel offers a sweet spot of affordability, fewer crowds, and some jaw-dropping natural beauty. Let’s dive into why you should pack your bags this season, with a few insider tips and a sprinkle of humor to keep things fun!
Advertisement
1. Affordability: Travel Like a VIP on a Budget
You’ve heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for,” but during fall travel, you’re actually getting way more for less. While everyone else is back at work or school, you’ll be snagging deals that make you feel like you’re pulling a fast one on the airline industry. According to Hopper’s lead economist Hayley Berg, airfare and hotel prices drop significantly as soon as Labor Day weekend is over.
In fact, domestic airfare sees its steepest drop during the week following Labor Day. If you’ve got international travel dreams, mark your calendar for October 20—statistically the best time to find those elusive budget-friendly flights. Don’t you love when math works in your favor?
2. Fewer Crowds: Your Personal Space Matters
Remember that beach vacation last summer where you spent more time people-dodging than relaxing? That’s why fall travel is a game-changer. Fewer crowds mean more room to breathe, stroll, and enjoy without bumping into selfie sticks or waiting 45 minutes for a half-decent meal. And it’s not just beaches; this rings true for national parks, major cities, and even Europe’s charming towns.
Fewer crowds also mean a more relaxed atmosphere. So, if you’re someone who prefers hiking through nature rather than pushing through a mob of tourists, fall is your time to shine—literally, because the weather’s still nice but not sweltering.
Advertisement
3. Leaf Peeping: A Natural Masterpiece Awaits
Here’s something that fall has that no other season can offer—gorgeous, fiery foliage that’ll make you wonder if Mother Nature went to art school. If you're a fan of stunning views and Instagram-worthy shots, fall is prime time for “leaf peeping,” the not-so-technical term for gazing at colorful leaves like it's your job.
New England, particularly Vermont, is a hotspot for fall foliage. From mid-September to mid-October, the Green Mountains turn into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold, transforming your casual nature walk into something worthy of a Bob Ross painting.
Pro tip: pack a thermos of hot cider and turn your leaf-peeping stroll into a full autumn experience.
4. Holiday Shopping: Shop Till You Drop (in Price)
If you're looking for an excuse to start your holiday shopping early—and let’s be honest, who isn’t—fall travel has you covered. September, October, and November are great months for hitting up shopping destinations before the chaos of the holiday season kicks in. You’ll find fewer crowds (see point #2), less stress, and maybe even early-bird sales that will have you patting yourself on the back for being so prepared.
5. Whale Watching and Hiking: Nature's Best Side
Two words: whale watching. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing these majestic creatures in person, fall is your last chance in places like New England, where whale-watching season ends in late October. It’s a bucket-list experience that’ll leave you with stories to tell at every future dinner party.
Not into whales? How about hiking? Fall offers cooler temperatures, making it the perfect time to hit the trails without melting into a puddle of sweat. Plus, with the fall foliage as your backdrop, every hike feels a little more magical.
Packing for Fall Travel: What You Need to Know
Okay, so now you’re convinced fall is the best time to travel. But what should you pack? Layering is key.
Temperatures can swing from brisk mornings to warmer afternoons, so bring versatile pieces like lightweight sweaters, comfortable shoes, and a scarf that can double as a blanket.
Don’t forget a jacket that can handle a little rain—you don’t want a drizzle to ruin your leaf-peeping adventures. And for those of you who like to travel light, consider packing compression bags for your clothing. These handy little space-savers allow you to stuff your luggage with all the fall essentials without bursting the seams of your suitcase. Just make sure you leave some room for souvenirs (and perhaps a few early holiday gifts!).
Advertisement
Final Thoughts: Why Fall Travel Reigns Supreme
So, what are you waiting for? Between lower prices, fewer crowds, stunning scenery, and plenty of things to do, fall is the perfect time to plan that much-needed getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore nature, or snag some deals, autumn delivers on all fronts. Just be sure to book soon—those cheap flights aren’t going to last forever, but the memories you make definitely will.
Happy travels, and may your suitcase always close on the first try!
Comments