NEW YORK — As the fall travel season approaches, travelers are looking forward to escaping the summer crowds and exploring new destinations. But with the excitement comes the need for careful planning and awareness of potential pitfalls. From choosing the right destinations to handling paperwork, here’s what travelers need to know to make the most of their fall getaways.
The Outlook for Fall Travel
Travel remains expensive and chaotic, but the fall season offers some relief. A survey by travel insurance company Faye reveals that 68% of American travelers plan to travel during the upcoming fall and winter season, a slight decrease from last year. Concerns about high prices persist, with 61% worried about inflated fares and rates.
What to Expect:
- Airfares: Mixed trends with domestic ticket prices down 11% to an average of \$257, European fares down 2% (\$813), and Asian ticket prices up 4% (\$1,417).
- Hotel Rates: The average room rate is \$183, up 11% compared to 2022 but down from summer highs.
- Car Rental Rates: A 15% decline in average rates, averaging \$45 a day, but long lines may persist at rental counters.
What Not to Do When Traveling This Autumn
1. Visit a Summer Destination in Fall
Travelers trying to outsmart crowds by booking summer destinations in fall may face closed tourist infrastructure. George Morgan-Grenville, CEO of Red Savannah, warns that many restaurants and beach clubs may shut down as towns prepare for winter.
2. Wait to Book
With high demand, last-minute bookings may not be wise. Experts like Duncan Greenfield-Turk advise against procrastination, especially for popular tourist destinations in France, Greece, Italy, and Portugal.
3. Schedule a Tight Connection
Bob Bacheler, the managing director of Flying Angels, cautions against tight flight connections. With a quarter of flights experiencing delays, connections with less than one hour can be risky.
4. Vacation in Popular Tourist Attractions
Crowded places like the Colosseum in Rome or the Eiffel Tower may remain overbooked. Nathan Heinrich, host of the “I’m Moving To Italy!” podcast, suggests less crowded places like Piedmont or the Prosecco Hills of northern Italy.
The Absolute Must-Avoid: Overlooking Paperwork
Paperwork, though seemingly mundane, can become a significant issue if overlooked. Whether it’s COVID test requirements or passport renewal, paperwork has never been more critical. The State Department takes 10 to 13 weeks to process a new passport, and many countries require at least six months of validity on the passport for entry.
Conclusion
Fall travel offers a chance to explore new horizons and enjoy the beauty of the season. However, smart planning is essential. By avoiding popular summer destinations in fall, booking in advance, scheduling reasonable flight connections, exploring less crowded attractions, and meticulously handling paperwork, travelers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
The story of Jerry Slaff, a playwright from Rockville, Maryland, who plans to travel to Edinburgh and Dublin this fall, encapsulates the spirit of the season. He promises not to complain, even if he faces long lines or crowds. Slaff’s attitude reflects a broader sentiment: Travelers are ready to embrace the adventure, mindful of the lessons learned from a challenging summer, and eager to explore the world once again.