Do you want to plan a trip this summer or fall but are worried about the cost? Keep scrolling to check out my tips for saving money on travel during these seasons!
This list tips for saving money on travel during summer and fallwas written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Are you dreaming about your next vacation but worried about the cost?
Guess what? You don’t need a treasure map to find amazing travel deals. With a little planning and some insider tips, you can save big bucks and still have the trip of a lifetime.
While our family loves visiting theme parks and going to Europe, those trips add up FAST. So, we like to balance those with more affordable options.
Whether it’s a summer beach vacay or a cozy fall getaway, I’ve got the secrets on when to book and where to go to make the most of every dollar. Let’s explore the world of seasonal travel savings!

Summer Savings: Sun, Sand, and Splendid Deals
1. Timing is Everything
The best time to book your summer vacation is either really early or somewhat late.
Here’s the scoop: airlines and hotels often offer the lowest prices about four months before the peak travel season begins, which means booking in early spring can lead to substantial savings.
Missed that window? No worries! Another great time to snag deals is about three weeks before your travel date. This is when companies reduce prices to fill up remaining spots.
2. Choose Less Popular Travel Days
Did you know that flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday is usually cheaper than the rest of the week? Most people travel on Fridays or Mondays, so mid-week flights can be a real money-saver.
Also, taking flights early in the morning or late at night can cut costs significantly.
3. Go Where the Crowds Aren’t
Instead of hitting the hot spots like Miami Beach or Disneyland during their busiest times, why not explore some less crowded destinations?
Places like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, or the lesser-known theme parks in Pennsylvania offer all the fun at a fraction of the cost. Plus, accommodations in these areas are often much cheaper during the summer.

Fall Into Savings: Autumn Escapes at Unbeatable Prices
1. Reap the Benefits of Shoulder Season
Fall is what travelers in the know call the “shoulder season.” This magical time after the summer rush and before the holiday hustle is perfect for catching great deals.
In early September, many summer destinations like Cape Cod or the California coast still have beautiful weather but with fewer tourists and lower prices.
2. Watch for Last-Minute Deals
Hotels and airlines are eager to fill their unsold spaces as the high season winds down, making late September and October prime times for last-minute deals.
Keep an eye on travel sites and sign up for alerts to get notifications on price drops.
3. Embrace the Great Outdoors
Nature’s display of fall colors comes with a bonus—free admission!
Destinations known for spectacular autumn foliage, like the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee or the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, offer affordable accommodations and a wealth of inexpensive outdoor activities.
Hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping are practically free entertainment!
4. Take Advantage of Kids Free San Diego
I think one of the best fall travel deals is Kids Free San Diego that takes place during the entire month of October.
Not only are there awesome hotel deals, but families can save a lot on attractions like LEGOLAND California, Sea World, and the San Diego Zoo.

Year-Round Tips for Scoring the Best Travel Deals
1. Be Flexible with Your Plans
The more flexible you are, the more you can save. If you’re open to different destinations and dates, you can take advantage of the best offers available.
Use travel search engines that allow you to compare prices across multiple destinations and time frames.
2. Use Rewards and Points
If you have a credit card that offers travel rewards, use it to your advantage. I personally use my Chase Sapphire card to earn points throughout the year.
Accumulate points by using your card for daily purchases and then redeem them for flights, hotels, or rental cars. Joining airline and hotel loyalty programs can also lead to upgrades and discounts.
3. Bundle and Save
Booking your flight, hotel, and car rental together can lead to better discounts than booking them separately.
Many travel sites offer additional savings when you create a package, which can also be more convenient. I’ve found some great deals through Costco Travel this way.
Wrap-Up: Smart Planning = Big Savings
Whether you’re soaking up the summer sun or enjoying the crisp fall air, traveling doesn’t have to break the bank.
By booking at the right time, choosing less popular destinations, and utilizing rewards, you can make your travel dreams come true without emptying your wallet.
So, start planning your next adventure today—your bank account will thank you later!
With these tips, you’re all set to become a savvy traveler who knows when to book and where to go for the best deals. Happy travels and happy savings!
Looking for more fall travel tips? Check out 7 Must-Visit European Spots for Family Adventures This Fall, 11 Best Fall Destinations in the US Worth Checking Out, 10 Epic Fall Travel Destinations for Families on a Budget, and Amazing Pacific Northwest Weekend Getaways for Fall!
