With summer officially behind us, travelers are shifting gears, embracing fall as the new peak season for travel. Tourists are trading sun-soaked landscapes for vibrant autumn hues, and this change is reshaping travel dynamics across the globe.
Surprisingly, recent booking trends are showing more vacationers are booking trips for September and October than ever before. A look at the data reveals why this is happening: travelers are eager to dodge high summer prices and overcrowded destinations, opting instead for beautiful spots with fewer tourists and pleasant weather.
Luxury travel agency Scott Dunn Private is noting this shift, particularly with its clientele. Clients are showing increased interest in fall vacations, often making plans to visit classic European destinations like Tuscany, Paris, and even London, with many bookings happening well before the usual peak seasons. According to travel manager Jackie Roth, September has become a wildly popular month, surpassing traditional summer months like June and July.
But it's not just affluent travelers leading the charge. Although fall has historically been considered shoulder season due to families resuming school routines, this year is different. Travel booking company Hopper highlights the trend, noting 23% of its European vacation bookings were for September and October.
Notably, destinations like Italy reported significant increases as well, with foreign visitor numbers climbing 15.5% from September to November compared to the previous year. "People are willing to trade going to the beach for their umbrella so they can experience some of the popular destinations without quite the crowds," commented Julie Durso from Scott Dunn Private.
While autumn is synonymous with cooler weather and transforming foliage, it also presents unique travel opportunities through less crowded sites, breathtaking natural landscapes, and significantly lower costs for accommodations. A study by Airbnb found vacation rentals are typically the cheapest from September to November, making this period attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
The booking patterns also highlight travelers seeking out experiences like leaf-peeping trips. There's been a notable spike, with AirDNA reporting October demand for fall foliage hotspots up by 19.7% from 2023. Locations such as Maine and rural New York have become go-to spots for avid leaf watchers.
Speaking of budgets, travelers are realizing the financial benefits of postponing vacations. A recent survey from Squaremouth indicated the average trip cost for fall has skyrocketed to $7,600 this season, with international trips averaging around $8,100, which is 38% higher than fall 2023. Yet, the good news is many are gravitating toward affordable destinations. For example, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Mexico are listed among top choices, thanks to their lower-than-average trip costs.
Interestingly, the industry is seeing Baby Boomers at the forefront of this fall travel boom, with nearly half of this demographic planning trips, up from just 34% the previous year. Gen Z travelers are showing less interest this season, with only 9% planning getaways, reduced from 18% the prior year. Meanwhile, the Silent Generation is surprisingly on the rise with 44% more travel bookings compared to last year.
Travel agencies have discovered travelers are not only seeking recreational journeys this coming season. The rise of niche activities like apple picking, wine tasting, and scenic rail trips has surged as fall festivities take center stage. Users of platforms like Wanderboat have shown heightened interest, with searches for apple picking climbing by 241% compared to summer.
Domestic travel remains incredibly hot this fall, with the majority of travelers planning American vacations during September, October, and November. Especially favored destinations include Salem, Massachusetts, Bar Harbor, Maine, and North Dakota. These trends reflect what consumers are craving: convenience, affordability, and enjoyable experiences without the usual tourist rush.
Returning to international travel, there’s still strong interest centered on Japan. Insight from Airbnb confirms Tokyo and Osaka are leading all international search trends, showcasing travelers are still hungry for cultural experiences abroad, even during this shoulder season. Enthusiasm for distinctive city adventures remains resolute.
The desire for quality experiences is also echoed through booking windows shrinking; luxury travel agency Embark Beyond found significant dips—from 129 days to 57 days for long-haul flights. This reduction may imply travelers are becoming more spontaneous or adaptable to changing travel landscapes.
So what can travelers expect this fall? Higher prices are undoubtedly on the table, but savvy vacationers can enjoy incredible deals as they explore where to embrace the season’s splendors. More than just autumn leaves, it’s about capturing rich cultural experiences with fewer crowds and unique local events.
Meanwhile, for those who enjoy slightly warmer weather, destinations such as Madeira, Portugal are waiting for adventurers. The island boasts temperatures averaging 21.7°C and is far quieter than during peak summer, making it perfect for exploring the beautifully rugged cliffs and indulging in the local cuisine without following the waves of tourists.
Madeira welcomed over 1.53 million tourists last year with the majority being domestic travelers, presenting the option for visitors to enjoy the peaceful ambiance the island provides. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore its myriad hiking trails, take coastal dips, or taste the famed Madeiran wines.
So, as this fall travel trend continues to rise, it looks set to redefine how many approach their vacations, transforming the seasonal travel playbook. Excitement is buzzing among travel agents urging people to take advantage of these hidden gems during this uncharted territory of autumn adventure. Expect fewer crowds, enhanced experiences, and possibly the best travel you’ve had yet because fall is not just for leaf-peeping anymore.
