A study by Deloitte reports an increase from 12% in 2022 to 17% in 2024 of post-Labor Day vacations in September. This trend reverberates season-long, with the amount of fall travel rising more than 8% in 2024, according to Squaremouth.
Once considered a reliable off-season, fall’s rise in popularity as a time for family vacations reached a palpable level this year. Such an increase in demand leads to longer lines at airports and the final destination.
This rise in fall travel largely revolves around the academic calendar. Most schools offer a break around the Thanksgiving holiday, but numerous states also now provide extra time off earlier in the season in October. These breaks range from a long weekend to a week off from class.
Lower airfare entices travelers to take vacations, but the proliferation of fall breaks at schools also contributes to these rising numbers.
With more crowds appearing in the fall, travel experts offer their best tips for maintaining a successful family vacation. Treating the fall like any other peak holiday time includes anticipating the need for extra time at the airport and knowing how to navigate crowds at popular destinations.
Allow for Extra Travel Time
Like other popular school breaks, families must pack their patience when traveling in the fall. Crowds will not reach levels akin to major holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, but travelers must no longer associate the season with quiet. Gavin Doyle, founder of Mickey Visit and bestselling author of Disneyland Secrets, warns travelers, “Fall breaks at schools are a relatively recent phenomenon that has already impacted crowd levels at popular tourist destinations.”
Regardless of the destination, travelers will encounter more crowds at airports and on the roads in the fall. “These travel days can be busy. Be sure to allow extra time at the airport and for transportation,” says Doyle. Heading to the airport earlier than usual allows more buffer time than racing to the gate at the last minute.
The extra time also applies to booking reservations and preparing for an upcoming fall vacation. Marjolein Dilven, founder of Spark Nomad, warns that “accommodations can fill up quickly.” Dilven suggests, “Book your flights, hotels, and any special activities or dining reservations as early as possible to secure the best options and prices.”
With an active hurricane season lasting through much of the fall, allowing as much time as possible at the airport will benefit travelers. Booking flights with more extended layovers helps to combat potential delays. Also, travelers must stay alert in the event of cancellations and never book flights the same day as essential itinerary items, such as nonrefundable activities or cruise departures.
Prepare for Crowds at Family Destinations
Due to the rising popularity of fall breaks, family destinations like Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort experience increased crowds around October. The demand for seasonal events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom and Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure draws even more tourists to the parks this time of year.
Doyle suggests families spending fall breaks at amusement parks make the most of that day’s operating hours. He shares, “Make sure to arrive early to take advantage of the least crowded part of the day.” For Dilven, this comes easier when staying at a Disney-owned hotel, which provides extra in-park time exclusive to hotel guests. She recommends, “Certainly take advantage of the early entry and extended hours at night to experience fewer crowds and shorter wait times.”
As lines increase in the afternoon, a midday break at the hotel will recharge the group. “When you have the luxury of being close to your accommodation, plan a possible midday break if the family is tired,” Dilven adds. Return in the evening as crowds dissipate and wait times decrease.
Using available free tools helps guests maximize a day in the parks. Dilven notes, “I like to use the Disney app to check real-time wait times or make reservations while you’re in the park.” Disney guests can trim wait times by using park apps to order meals.
