Expedia Has Revealed the Single Best and Worst Days to Fly This Fall

Travel in the fall follows a different beat, and 2025 fits the pattern. Airfares and hotel prices shift from week to week, so timing matters. With summer over and the holiday season still ahead, this stretch offers a chance at lower costs and fewer crowds for those who plan carefully.

Expedia’s Autumn Travel Outlook lays out which dates are worth booking and which will test your patience. Some stand out for cheaper fares and lighter airports, while others come with packed terminals and higher bills. Paying attention to those details can mean the difference between a trip that feels smooth and one that wears you down.

The Cheapest Days to Fly and Stay

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Expedia’s data calls out the exact days that come with lower prices:

Cheapest international flights: September 12 and September 26
Cheapest domestic stays: October 26 and November 2
Cheapest international stays: November 4 and November 10

For hotels, the savings can be especially impressive. The online travel agency reports show that some properties have dropped rates by up to 50% compared to peak summer highs. Late September and early November are golden opportunities to score deals without skimping on comfort.

Busy Travel Days to Avoid

Not all fall dates are peaceful. Some line up with Labor Day and back-to-school travel, which means crowded airports and busy hotels:

Busiest domestic flight days: September 1 and September 19
Busiest international flight days: September 5 and September 6
Busiest domestic stays: September 5 and September 12
Busiest international stays: September 4 and September 6

Crowds on these dates mean longer waits and fewer options. Shifting your plans by even a day or two can ease the trip and cut the cost.

The Most Expensive Days of Fall

Some dates are clear red flags for prices. Is your goal to avoid overpaying? Watch out for these dates:

Most expensive domestic flights: November 5 and November 23
Most expensive international flights: November 2 and November 11
Most expensive domestic stays: September 28 and November 29
Most expensive international stays: October 18 and October 19

They fall around mid-October weekends and the Thanksgiving rush, both of which push demand sky-high. Steering clear of them can save a good chunk of money.

Tips for Smarter Fall Travel

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Beyond the calendar, there are simple tricks that make fall travel easier on your wallet. Setting up price alerts helps you grab lower fares at the right moment. Bundling flights with hotels or activities often adds more savings on top. Free-cancellation options and reserve-now-pay-later choices make plans less stressful if something changes. And for those who book often, Expedia’s One Key program offers extra perks, like special rates at VIP Access properties.

Overall, fall 2024 is shaping up to be a season of deals for travelers who plan smart. With the right dates, you can stretch your budget further and avoid the biggest crowds. This way, you can enjoy the shoulder season at its best!