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Did you know that Friday marks National Cheap Flights Day? As we bid farewell to summer, the upcoming autumn months present a prime opportunity for affordable travel, especially for those who can be flexible with their plans.

Historically, the timeframe from September (after Labor Day) through mid-November (before the Thanksgiving rush) sees a dip in travel demand. While the shift towards remote work since the pandemic has slightly altered this trend, the next few months are still expected to offer better deals.

Here’s a look at pricing trends if you’re planning an off-peak trip.

Airfare Trends for Fall

As per data from Expedia, airfare during the fall is usually about 10% cheaper than summer rates. The travel booking platform suggests that travelers could save as much as 15% by choosing to fly on Mondays or Saturdays.

“No matter where you’re headed, fall is a wonderful season for travel, and there’s still plenty of time to plan a short trip. The week right after Labor Day offers the best domestic airfare deals, while October 20 is prime for booking international adventures—and a perfect time for leaf-watching,” noted Melanie Fish, head of public relations for Expedia Group Brands.

Hopper’s analysis indicates that average domestic airfare in September is around $240, which is an 8% drop compared to September 2023. International flight prices to numerous areas remain attractive as well.

Travel expert Gemma Jameison from Skyscanner suggests that now is also an excellent time to secure flights for the upcoming summer.

Hotel Pricing Insights for Fall

While hotel prices have seen a slight increase since 2019, the average nightly rate remains reasonable at $161, according to Hopper.

Expedia mentions that several popular destinations both domestic and international boast great deals this fall. Notable U.S. locations include Seattle, Honolulu, and Denver for budget-savvy travelers, while Toronto, Santo Domingo, and London are excellent choices for those looking abroad.

Rental Car Pricing for Fall

According to Hopper, gas prices have decreased by nearly 10% since August 2023, and rental car prices have remained stable or slightly lower, making road trips during this fall more economical.

Fall Travel Savings Tips

Expedia advises travelers to adopt certain strategies to maximize their money spent. Here are some effective recommendations:

• Set price alerts for flights you’re interested in.

• Opt for morning flights, which are generally cheaper and less likely to experience delays or cancellations.

• Choose refundable hotel bookings. Though it might cost a bit more, the flexibility will be beneficial if your plans change.

• Consider bundling your flight and hotel bookings for potential savings.