preloadIllustration of a newspaper with pencil and coffee next to orange text that reads:

Summer isn’t over.

While those warmer temps may not be dropping, travel costs certainly are – according to our recent numbers, traveling this fall could be cheaper than it was this summer. Want to get a headstart on your autumnal trip-planning? We see you – keep reading to know what to expect.

 

The pre-check

The week’s latest travel stories and news.

  • Drop it like it’s hot.
    To avoid flight chaos from this summer, many US airlines are continuing to cut flights from their fall schedules – more deets on that.
  • Who wrote a strongly-worded letter.
    Pete Buttigieg. He recently sent a note to US airlines re: flight issues, which could lead to new protective measures for travelers.
  • Does one size fit all?
    Most airlines fit 22” x 14” x 9” bags – here’s a breakdown of several airline policies (and you can measure your bag on the KAYAK app).
  • Satellite in my eyes.
    Royal Caribbean Cruises is the first major line to adopt SpaceX’s Starlite Maritime – a satellite service that seeks to bring cheaper, faster internet to the sea.

Things to keep in mind for fall travel.
Summer travel this year was…a lot – a lot of people were doing it, there were a lot of challenges along the way and, most importantly, a lot of travelers were happy to be back doing what they love. So how might all of this influence travel for the next season? Good question – here are some key takeaways from our recent data pulls:

  • What’s going on with flights?
    Flight prices look like they’re finally chilling out – domestic flight prices are down 19%* ($359 average price) and international flight prices are down 21%* ($856 average price) compared to summer 2022.
  • What about hotels?
    Stays in the US might be a little more pricey – domestic hotel prices are up 9%* ($290 average per night) compared to summer 2022. International hotel prices, on the other hand, are down 5%* ($262 average per night) compared to summer 2022.
  • And for rental cars?
    Rental rates are looking better, too – domestic rental car prices are down 21%* ($77 average per day) and international rental car prices are down 31%* ($70 average per day) compared to summer 2022.
  • The bottom line?
    According to our GM & VP of North America, Paul Jacobs, “Good things come to those who wait –  fall travel is looking more affordable than this past summer, especially for international travel. Now is the time to pick up the planning.”

Ready to start scheming? Head over to our Explore tool to find affordable destinations based on your local airport.

Tricks of the trade

Yet another reason to get insurance.

Though we’re always manifesting clear skies for those traveling south, the fact of the matter is that hurricane season is well underway. If your plans get rained on by an approaching storm, having insurance can help you navigate costs and other travel challenges you might encounter. 

Curious about how to find coverage that works for you? Head to our travel insurance 101 blog to learn how to find a plan for your next trip.

Social shoutouts

Our Explore tool is one of the best ways to score affordable travel. Just ask @start_travels – they know the deal.

 

 

Links in this Newsletter are for informational purposes only, and there is no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by or with KAYAK Software Corporation whatsoever.

*Methodology: To determine Fall travel demand and pricing, KAYAK considered searches from 5/1/22 – 8/21/22 for travel between 9/7/22 – 11/20/22. To compare to Summer 2022, we considered searches from 3/1/22 – 6/30/22 for travel between 6/1/22 – 9/6/22. Percentages and prices are on average.