Expedia’s Fall Travel Outlook Reveals Shoulder Season Pricing is Harder to Find This Year, But Travelers Can Still Save on Select Getaways
Fall lodging prices are 20% higher and flight prices are 2% higher on average in the top 10 U.S. destinations compared to summer
SEATTLE, August 17, 2026--Expedia's Fall Travel Outlook finds that travelers may need to be more strategic to score a seasonal deal this year. Summer demand has spilled into fall, with prices in the top 10 U.S. destinations averaging 20% higher for lodging and 2% higher for flights when comparing fall to summer. [1] [2]
As a result, traditional shoulder-season savings are harder to find in many popular destinations. Despite the trend in pricing, Expedia® identified six destinations where travelers can still save, whether they're looking for a cozy mountain getaway or a sun-and-sand escape.
For travelers who are not ready to fully embrace fall just yet, there is still value to be found in warm-weather escapes. 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.
For travelers ready to lean into crisp air and mountain scenery, Anchorage, Aspen and Bozeman offer even stronger value, with average combined savings for lodging and flights of about 30% in fall compared to summer.
"Shoulder season is not a given this year, but value is still out there if travelers know where to look," said Melanie Fish, head of public relations for Expedia Group Brands. "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."
Where can travelers still find fall savings? [3]
If you are still hanging on to summer: Beach Vibes
Fort Walton Beach, Florida: warm Gulf weather, quieter shores, and relaxed sunsets with 30% combined savings for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer
San Diego, California: golden beaches, warm evenings, and lighter crowds with about 15% combined savings for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer
Honolulu, Hawaii: endless-summer energy, trade winds, and easy beach days with about 10% combined savings for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer
If you are ready to jump into fall: Mountain Vibes
Aspen, Colorado: peak mountain drama, cool weather, and a polished alpine feel with about 45% combined savings for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer
Anchorage, Alaska: golden foliage, crisp air, and dramatic northern landscapes with about 40% combined savings for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer
Bozeman, Montana: rugged scenery, laid-back downtown energy, and early fall color with about 5% combined savings for lodging and flights in fall compared to summer