As the calendar flips to October, there's a strong case to be made that this is the very best time of the year to travel.
Whether you're searching for peak fall colors in some of the most sought-after destinations or a die-hard football fan looking to watch your favorite team in a new city, there are endless opportunities to get away this fall.
Perhaps you want to embrace the spooky season by touring haunted sites or keep the spirit of summer alive in a laidback sun-kissed locale. The possibilities are endless this time of year.
What's more, with kids back in school, the summer vacation crowds are long gone and travel suppliers such as hotels and airlines are looking to drive bookings by offering discounted stays and flights, respectively, for flexible shoulder season travelers.
Indeed, the holiday travel booking window is quickly closing, with Thanksgiving less than two months away. However, those with some PTO left to use would be wise to plan a trip for this travel sweet spot we currently find ourselves in.
There are still two months left in the 2025 hurricane season, sure, but the weather is turning across much of the country, making it an ideal time for a quick domestic getaway.
What's more, travelers can look forward to free admission to national wildlife refuges and other U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands on the first Sunday of National Wildlife Refuge Week this October 12.
Buffalo Bills tailgate. (Photo Credit: Visit Buffalo Niagara)
Whether looking to check a destination off your travel bucket list or venture off the beaten path this autumn, taking a trip should be at the very top of your to-do list.
The holiday commercials are already starting, and a U.S. government shutdown threatens to make the hectic end-of-year travel period even more tedious, so why wait?
October is arguably the best time of the year to travel.
Splurge on that all-inclusive weekend getaway to the Caribbean. Take a day trip to a nearby state park. Go camping. Cheer on your alma mater in person, check out that festive fall event and see that band live in person at a music festival.
Whatever it is you have in mind, now is the perfect time.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
