BUSINESS: Research + Stats Fall Travel Season Hits New Records, AAA Reports By Staff Wednesday, September 18, 2024 12:02 PM Summer may be over, but Americans are still making travel plans. According to a new report from the Automobile Association of America (AAA), Americans plan on traveling in record numbers for the fall season. New booking data shows that travel rates are up by 1 percent for domestic flights and 3 percent for international flights. The data noted that travelers are still paying the same costs to travel as they did last fall. A domestic roundtrip ticket averages $660, while an international roundtrip is approximately $1,315, according to the report. AAA vice president of travel Stacey Barber said that the fall is a great time for travelers to check out new destinations. She added that Europe, in particular, is a popular spot due to fewer crowds. “This time of year is known as shoulder season in travel, which means mild weather, fewer crowds and better prices,” said Barber. The most popular domestic travel spots this fall are Orlando, Boston and Seattle. Meanwhile, the most popular international destinations are Rome, Paris and London. Many Americans are choosing to see the world by taking a cruise. Domestic cruise bookings have risen 19 percent compared with last fall, and international cruise bookings are up 6 percent. The average cost to cruise from domestic cities is similar to last fall at $2,355, while the average cost of international cruises is up 1 percent to $3,560. “AAA booking numbers show more people are flying this season, both domestically and internationally, and many travelers are taking fall cruises to enjoy the foliage in Alaska and New England.” Barber noted that lower gas prices are also boosting travel numbers. Getting around once you reach your destination is also more affordable. The cost of renting a vehicle for travel domestically is down 5 percent, while international rentals are down 15 percent.