Most people I know are going on vacation during the summer. It is when most people take breaks from work. During the summer it is always quiet at the office. And sure, if you are still going to school, you don’t get a lot of time off during other seasons. But, hear me out: fall is hands-down the best season to travel, and I’ll tell you why. Summer vacations are fun and all, but there’s something extra special about exploring new places in the fall. Here’s why I’m obsessed with fall travel and why you should be too:
Why Fall is the Best Season to Travel
1. Fewer Crowds = More Fun
Summer is great, but let’s be real—it’s packed everywhere. Airports, beaches, tourist spots, you name it. Fall, though? It’s like the secret season where you can actually enjoy your destination without elbowing through a crowd of tourists. No more long lines for everything, no more packed beaches, and no more feeling like you’re in a never-ending game of people dodgeball.
2. Perfect Weather for Exploring
You know what’s not fun? Sweating buckets while trying to sightsee in the blazing heat. Sure, summer gives you all the sunshine, but fall weather is where it’s at. It’s cool enough to be comfortable while walking around and warm enough that you’re not shivering either. Whether you’re wandering through a city, hiking in nature, or chilling by a lake, fall weather is that sweet spot where you can do it all without melting. And in some cities, it can be still pretty warm in fall, so it doesn’t always mean it is always raining and cold.
3. Fall Foliage is Straight-Up Gorgeous
One of the biggest perks of traveling in the fall? The scenery. Everywhere you go, the trees are showing off with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. It doesn’t matter if you’re exploring a big city, a small town, or the countryside—fall landscapes are like nature’s artwork. And trust me, your Instagram feed will thank you for all those gorgeous, golden-leaf-filled shots. Fall vibes just hit differently.
4. Cheaper Everything
Let’s talk money. Traveling in the fall is usually cheaper than summer because it’s considered the “off-season.” That means better deals on flights, hotels, and attractions. You can score some serious discounts and stretch your budget further. Plus, I’m all about fewer crowds AND saving money at the same time—it’s a win-win. This can also mean you have enough money to stay at a hotel for longer than just a week.
5. Cozy Vibes Everywhere You Go
Fall naturally brings out the cozy in everything, and when you travel, it’s no different. Whether you’re snuggled up in a cabin, exploring a cozy café, or enjoying a hot drink after a long day of sightseeing, fall has that perfect chill vibe. Picture yourself wrapped up in a scarf, sipping hot apple cider, and watching the sunset over a beautiful fall landscape. It’s peak relaxation.
6. Fall Festivals and Events
There are so many fun things happening in the fall that you can only experience this time of year. Think of harvest festivals, Oktoberfest, Halloween events, and more. Every place has its own fall traditions, and it’s the perfect time to soak in the local culture. There’s just something extra charming about fall festivities, and they make traveling during this season even more special.
7. Fall Foods from Around the World
And finally, let’s not forget the food! Fall is prime time for seasonal dishes that you won’t find during the summer. Depending on where you go, you can try delicious local fall recipes, whether it’s a hearty stew, pumpkin treats, or warm, spiced drinks. Traveling is always about the food, and in the fall, everything feels a little more comforting and delicious.
So, if you’re looking to travel without the chaos of summer crowds, want better deals, and love soaking in gorgeous scenery with those cozy fall vibes, then pack your bags! Fall is definitely the best season to explore new places, and once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to the sweaty summer travel hustle.
Photo by Chris Hardy on Unsplash