7 Travel Destinations To Visit Now Before Prices Skyrocket This Winter

According to a USA Today and Talker Research survey, the average traveler spends over $1,742 on vacation, and 10% of respondents admitted to spending more than $3,500 on a trip. The amount you spend on a trip will always depend on personal factors, but the time of the year may be crucial if you want to save money.

If you plan on going on a trip before the colder weather arrives, you’ll want to consider some of these locations. These destinations are cheap to visit in the late summer and early fall but considerably more expensive in the winter months. And if you’re still on the fence on taking a trip soon, here are five budget-friendly reasons to take a fall vacation.

“Aspen is a fantastic destination during the fall, especially with the stunning display of autumn foliage,” said Duncan Greenfield-Turk, CEO of Global Travel Moments. Until Oct. 1, you can still use the Elk Camp Gondola to go up Snowmass Mountain on weekends to explore 50 miles of trails and soak in the changing of the season.

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

Greenfield-Turk noted that when the winter sets in and the ski season begins, prices skyrocket, as Aspen can be one of the most expensive travel destinations in the U.S. According to him, accommodation prices are relatively moderate until the winter, with average rates around $200 to $300 per night. The average nightly rates easily exceed $600 to $800 during peak ski season​.

“Visiting Hawaii in September or October can be surprisingly affordable, as it’s considered the off-season for tourism,” said Greenfield-Turk. If you’re looking for a sunny beach vacation, you can also get it here, as September is one of the year’s warmest months, and you may notice fewer crowds with children returning to school.

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

Based on his experience, the average hotel rates can be around $250 to $350 per night, depending on the island and location. Greenfield-Turk shared that during the winter months, particularly around Christmas and New Year’s, there’s a significant spike in demand, with average nightly rates soaring to $500 or more. 

“Orlando, home to Walt Disney World and other major attractions, tends to be more affordable in early fall, especially after the summer crowds have dissipated,” Greenfield-Turk said.

Orlando is known for offering plenty of activities for families, so if you can swing some time off before the winter months, you can treat your family to a reasonable trip.

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

Greenfield-Turk noted that hotel rates are around $150 to $200 per night during summer. However, prices can nearly double as families flock to the theme parks, making December particularly expensive, with rates often exceeding $300 per night​.

Greenfield-Turk pointed out that San Diego enjoys mild weather year-round but is more budget-friendly in late summer and early fall. If you want to catch a beach vacation before the colder temperatures arrive, you could try to fit in a trip to San Diego.

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

Greenfield-Turk noted that travelers can find hotel rates averaging around $175 to $250 per night until the winter months. When those looking to escape colder climates start booking travel accommodations, hotel prices in San Diego rise to around $300 to $400 per night during the holiday season​.

“The soaring peaks of Sun Valley are renowned for their incredible snow conditions, but this destination is just as special to visit in the summer or early fall,” said Dean Van Es, the founder and CEO of Fast Cover Travel Insurance. “If you’re looking for excitement, you’ll find awesome mountain biking trails spanning Bald Mountain.”

You can also enjoy the hiking routes, golf courses and fly fishing before the winter. 

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

“On average, a standard hotel is about $100 cheaper per night, while an abundance of free or low-cost summer activities means this season is much more budget-friendly,” Van Es said.

With fewer tourists flocking to the region at this time of year, you can expect lower prices for accommodation, activities and dining. 

“Although the mountains of Vail, Colorado, remain popular in summer, the lower tourism demand compared to winter means visitors can enjoy a more affordable vacation,” said Van Es. “You can soak up peaceful experiences fly fishing along Gore Creek or hike through lush aspen forests to reach Booth Falls.”

With fewer visitors to the region, you can save on car rental costs, flights and even restaurants before the busy winter season kicks in.

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

Based on Van Es’ experience, booking accommodations is often significantly cheaper in summer, with a 3-star hotel costing around $250 per night compared to about $610 in winter.

“[Big] Sky is a celebrated ski resort, with crowds descending on its famous slopes throughout winter,” Van Es said. “Yet it remains a thrilling destination for outdoor enthusiasts when the weather heats up, as visitors discover everything from scenic hiking trails to whitewater rafting adventures and horseback riding.”

With the ski resort now more popular than ever, the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce is asking tourists to consider visiting during the summer or early fall, since there are 3,000 visitors off-season compared to the 15,000 during busy times.

Average Pricing in Winter vs. Off-Season

A hotel costs about $415 per night in winter, which drops to around $330 in summer. Van Es pointed out that lower demand also means cheaper dining and outdoor activities.