Last-Minute Fall Getaways: Top Destinations for 2024 Travelers

Fall is upon us, and there’s still time to plan an autumn getaway at budget-friendly prices. The period after summer, known as the shoulder season, offers excellent travel deals, making it an ideal time for last-minute trips. Hayley Berg, Lead Economist at Hopper, noted that this fall window between Labor Day and the holiday season features some of the best offers available. Popular destinations include major U.S. cities like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Orlando. Internationally, travelers are flocking to Cancun, Mexico City, London, and Rome. Expedia’s recent data echoed these trends, highlighting Las Vegas, New York, and Orlando as top domestic choices, while Paris and London lead the way for international travel. Additionally, round-trip flights to cities like Charleston, Nashville, and San Diego are still available for under $100, ensuring travelers can enjoy an affordable autumn escape.

Travelers can find incredible international deals this fall while avoiding the summer rush. Hopper reports round-trip fares as low as $400 to popular destinations like Paris, Dublin, Barcelona, and London. Notably, prices have dropped significantly compared to summer, with airfares to Seattle and Oslo falling by 36%, while Brussels and Berlin saw decreases of 34% and 33%, respectively. Expedia also noted that average ticket prices for Seattle were nearly 20% lower this fall compared to the summer months, with similar trends for Honolulu and Houston.

In addition to flights, hotel rates are averaging $231 per night, with some rooms available for as low as $126, while daily rental car rates have decreased by 20%, now averaging $34. Hayley Berg suggests setting price alerts for airfare and recommends booking within the next two weeks. Mid-week travel can lead to significant savings, with departures on Tuesdays or Wednesdays potentially cutting costs by over 30%. For domestic flights, Monday is recommended, while Saturday is ideal for international travel based on recent trends.

Nathan Diller serves as a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY and is based in Nashville. You can contact him via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Nathan Diller provides valuable insights into consumer travel trends and tips, helping readers navigate their travel options effectively. His expertise and accessible communication make it easier for travelers to plan enjoyable and budget-friendly getaways. For personalized inquiries or further information, readers can reach out to him directly via email.