Awesomely Affordable Fall Vacation Ideas

Inexpensive autumn adventures

Are your fall vacation dreams giving your wallet nightmares?! Coming between summer vacation and holiday expenses, you guys might be thinking that an autumn escape is out of your budget. But it’s not! With off-peak pricing, an affordable fall vacation is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the season without breaking the bank.

Ready to travel without overspending? Now’s the time to plan your autumn adventure and savor the best of fall!

• Head to the beach

  The weather might be cooler, but the ocean view is just as relaxing!

  Beach towns might be out of reach during the summer, when peak season = peak pricing. But once fall arrives, hotels and Airbnbs will lower their prices. Plus, less crowds means less wait at that delicious waterfront restaurant you’ve been dreaming of!

  As for the beach itself, you might not want to swim, but you can still go shelling, walk along the shore, and even catch a gorgeous sunset. And if you’re brave enough, an early afternoon dip might still be doable.

  Budget-Friendly Fall Beach Destination: Laid-back, family-friendly Gulf Shores, Alabama, which stays warm-ish through early fall

• Camp at a national park

  If you’re a fan of The Great Outdoors, then you’re in luck. Camping is a totally affordable fall vacation, and one of our national parks is just the place to do it.

  Along with cheaper campsites, you guys will also have the benefits of fall camping. Cooler weather for outdoor recreation, fewer bugs, and less crowded campsites. And don’t forget the chance to see the stunning fall foliage!

  If you don’t want to sleep outdoors, many of the parks offer small rental cabins or lodges. Still cheaper than hotels, and (almost) as outdoors-y!

  Budget-Friendly Fall Camping Destination: Shenandoah National Park, just outside of D.C., with 4 campgrounds, popular hiking trails, and panoramic views

• Hit the town

  The college town, that is!

  College towns, which are ghost towns during the summer, are an absolutely budget-friendly blast in the fall. Bars, restaurants, and local attractions gear their prices toward the college crowd. And affordable accommodations are easier to find than in typical autumn hot spots.

  And if you really want to feel the school spirit, make sure you pick a football weekend. College games are just as fun as an NFL game, and waaaay less expensive. Wear the school colors and have fun cheering for the home team!

  Budget-Friendly Fall College Destination: Ann Arbor, Michigan—home of the Wolverines—is filled with (free) outdoor activities. Just dress warmly!

• Get woodsy

  Breathtaking scenery. A cozy fire. And sweet, sweet silence. If that sounds like your ideal affordable fall vacation, look into renting a cabin for a peaceful retreat.

  Rental cabins can be found for a much better price during the shoulder season (between summer and holiday travel). Plus they offer a quiet, nature-filled getaway that a hotel just can’t provide. And although the evening temps might be on the chilly side, you can spend your days outside in the comfy fall weather.

  Bonus: cabins make the perfect home base for hiking, fishing, and—our fall favorite—leaf-peeping.

  Budget-Friendly Fall Cabin Destination: Sisters, Oregon, a quaint mountain town nestled at the foot of the Cascade Mountains

• Go big

  Big cities are such classic destinations, all year round. But there’s nothing budget-friendly about gourmet restaurants, star-studded shows, or trendy rooftop bars.

  Luckily, those same big cities also have plenty of cheap—or even free—activities to fill your time. And, they’re often less crowded and just as fun, making them perfect for an affordable fall vacation.

  Check out free urban gardens such as New York City’s Central Park, an iconic fall destination filled with vibrant red and gold leaves. Museums are another great, and inexpensive option. The Art Institute of Chicago, for example, offers free admission to Bank of America cardholders on certain weekends.

  Budget-Friendly Fall Big-City Destination: Sighhhhh… There’s nothing like fall foliage in Central Park!

Whatever your preference, there’s an affordable fall vacation spot waiting for you. Pick your favorite, and enjoy the season without breaking the bank!

And to save even more money, ship your bags to your final destination with LugLess. For less than the cost of the average checked bag, we’ll make sure that your flannels, hiking boots, and the rest of your fall gear arrive safely. You’ll be relaxed and happy while you travel—and so will your wallet!