Fall Travel Prices Are Rising, But 6 Destinations Offer Big Savings

Fall travel may be especially popular this year, but it will be no bargain.

Summer demand is apparently spilling into fall, according to a new Expedia report, and prices in the top 10 U.S. destinations are averaging 20% higher for lodging and 2% higher for flights when comparing fall to summer.

As a result, traditional shoulder-season savings are harder to find in many popular destinations. But don’t despair entirely. Expedia researchers have identified six destinations where it may still be possible to save.

“Shoulder season is not a given this year, but value is still out there if travelers know where to look,” said Expedia’s Melanie Fish. “Expedia’s latest data shows that the biggest fall savings are showing up in a small set of destinations where travelers can choose between beachy, summer-like escapes and mountain getaways with a more classic autumn feel.” 

For travelers who are not ready to fully embrace fall yet, there’s value to be found in warm-weather escapes, says the report. Honolulu, Fort Walton Beach and San Diego deliver summer-style beach energy with average combined savings for lodging and flights of about 15% in fall compared to summer. 

But what about those of us who are more than ready to lean into crisp air and mountain scenery? There are some less pricey options as well.

Expedia research suggests places like Anchorage, Aspen and Bozeman offer strong value, with average combined savings for lodging and flights of about 30% in fall compared to summer.

Read on for additional fall travel insights.

Autumn colors on hillside just outside Bozeman, Montana (Photo Credit: Courtesy AdobeStock)

Fall travel will be a mixed bag

Fall will not be cheaper across the board this year. Here's what to know about the bargains to be had.

• Among the six standout value destinations identified by Expedia, the average combined savings for lodging and flights is about 25% in fall compared with summer. 
• For beach travelers, the average combined savings for lodging and flights is about 15% in fall compared with summer across Fort Walton Beach, San Diego, and Honolulu.  
• For mountain travelers, average combined savings for lodging and flights is about 30% in fall compared with summer across Aspen, Anchorage and Bozeman. 
• The strongest individual savings story in the set is Aspen at about 45% combined for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer. 
  
  

Expedia's data is based on average daily rates and average ticket prices for travel between September 7, 2026 – November 26, 2026 compared to travel between May 25, 2026 – September 7, 2026.

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