Travelers increasingly shift major vacations to autumn shoulder season

Travel patterns are shifting as more people opt for autumn vacations over the traditional summer peak. This trend, often referred to as the “shoulder season,” is driven by a desire for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and more competitive pricing.

Data from Deloitte’s 2026 summer travel survey indicates that 20% of major trips now occur after Labor Day, a significant increase from 12% in 2022. Luxury travel network Virtuoso has reported a 59% year-over-year increase in fall bookings, while Airbnb reports that 60% of surveyed travelers are planning short fall trips for 2026.

Industry experts note that destinations remain active well after August, and the availability of lower airfares—historically about 10% cheaper than summer rates according to Expedia—continues to attract travelers. However, as more people adopt this trend, there are questions regarding whether the shoulder season will eventually transition into a new peak season.