Cheap holidays in October: Package deals, last minute, weekend trips etc.

Cheap October holidays – How to find autumn’s best travel deals

As summer’s last rays fade and leaves start to turn, a golden opportunity opens up for the savvy traveller. October, a month often overlooked for holidays, offers a unique chance to explore the world without emptying your piggy bank. Let’s dive into how you can find budget-friendly trips in October and discover exciting destinations at affordable prices.

Why travel in October?

October sits snugly between the intense summer high season and the winter ski holidays. This gap in the travel calendar creates a perfect storm of benefits for the wise traveller:
Lower prices: With decreased demand, prices for both flights and accommodation often drop.
Fewer tourists: Popular destinations catch their breath after the summer rush, giving you more space to explore in peace.
Pleasant climate: In many parts of the world, October offers mild temperatures – perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Autumn beauty: From New England’s vibrant maple leaves to Europe’s wine regions at harvest time, October offers a visual feast.

Destinations for cheap trips in October

Europe

Lisbon, Portugal

October offers lower prices on package holidays to Portugal as the summer season is over, but the weather is still pleasant. Hotels and flights are often significantly cheaper than during peak season, and you can enjoy the city’s charm without the crowds from the summer months.

Crete, Greece

After the summer rush, prices drop markedly on package holidays to Greece in October. Airlines and hotels lower their prices to attract visitors during the low season. The weather is still warm enough for swimming, but without the intense heat of summer, making it a perfect time for both beach life and sightseeing at an affordable price.

Prague, Czech Republic

October is a shoulder season in Prague, which means lower prices on accommodation and fewer tourists. The city doesn’t have as many visitors as during the summer or Christmas time, so hotels often offer good deals to fill their rooms. This makes it possible to experience the city’s beauty and culture at a fraction of the summer price.

Asia

Bali, Indonesia

October marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the low season in Bali. This results in significantly lower prices on accommodation and activities compared to the popular summer months. Many luxury hotels offer substantial discounts, making it possible to enjoy a premium level at a budget price.

Kyoto, Japan

While autumn leaves start to change colour in Kyoto, prices haven’t yet reached their peak as they do in November. October offers a chance to experience the beginning of autumn at more affordable prices, before the big rush of “momijigari” (autumn leaf viewing) tourists arrive.

Africa

Marrakech, Morocco

October is a transition period in Marrakech, between the hot summer and the winter season. This results in lower prices for both flights and accommodation. Riads (traditional Moroccan houses) and hotels often offer special deals to attract visitors during this period, making it possible to experience the city’s luxury at a more affordable price.

America

New England, USA

While New England is famous for its beautiful autumn colours, prices can be high during the peak of the leaf season. By travelling at the beginning or end of October, you can often find better prices on accommodation and car rentals, while still experiencing the spectacular autumn splendour. Additionally, many smaller towns and villages offer special packages to attract visitors outside the most popular weeks.
By choosing these destinations in October, you can take advantage of low season prices while still enjoying good weather and unique seasonal experiences. It’s a perfect balance between affordability and travel quality.

Strategies for finding a cheap trip in October

Be flexible with dates

Flexibility is key to finding the best prices. Use search functions that show prices for a whole month to identify the most affordable days to travel. Often, you can save significant sums by moving your trip a few days forward or backward.

Compare prices carefully

Use price comparison sites like Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kayak to get an overview of prices from different airlines and travel agencies. But don’t stop there – also check directly on the airlines’ and hotels’ own websites. Sometimes you can find exclusive offers or loyalty discounts that don’t appear on comparison sites.

Consider package holidays

All-inclusive package holidays can often provide more value for money, especially if you’re travelling with family or in a group. Tour operators like TUI, Jet2, and easyJet Holidays can offer attractive packages that include flights, accommodation, and sometimes even meals and activities. However, always compare with the cost of booking everything separately to ensure you’re really making a saving.

Use bonus programmes smartly

If you travel regularly, make sure to collect points through airline and hotel loyalty programmes. October can be a strategic time to use these points for upgrades or free nights, as demand is lower than during peak season. Be alert for special offers where your points may be worth more than usual.

Timing is everything

When it comes to booking, there are two schools of thought: book early or wait for last-minute deals. For flights, it’s generally best to book 2-3 months in advance to get the best prices. For hotels and package holidays, you can often find good last-minute deals, especially if you’re flexible with your destination. Keep an eye on prices and be ready to strike when you see a good offer.

Explore alternative airports and routes

Sometimes it can be cheaper to fly to a nearby airport and then take a train or bus to your final destination. This can not only save money but also give you an opportunity to see more of the country you’re visiting. Also consider flights with layovers – even if the journey takes longer, the savings can be worth it.

Follow airlines and travel agencies on social media

Many companies advertise flash sales and exclusive offers via their social media channels. By following them on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, you can be among the first to take advantage of time-limited offers.

Use credit cards with travel benefits

Some credit cards offer generous travel benefits such as points on purchases, free travel insurance, or access to airport lounges. If you travel often, it may be worth investing in such a card to maximise the value of your spending.

Things to consider when travelling in October

Pack smart: Weather can be unpredictable in October. Bring layered clothing and a rain jacket to be prepared for all weather conditions. A light down jacket, a waterproof outer layer, and comfortable walking shoes are often good investments.
Research local events: Many cities have exciting festivals and events during autumn. In Munich, Oktoberfest concludes at the beginning of the month, while Edinburgh celebrates its international science festival. Check what’s happening at your destination – you might stumble upon a unique cultural experience.
Be aware of school holidays: In some countries, schoolchildren have autumn breaks in October, which can affect prices and availability. In the UK, “half term” is often at the end of October, while many European countries have breaks in the middle of the month. Plan your trip around these dates if you want to avoid potential price increases.
Vaccinations and travel insurance: Always make sure you have the right vaccinations and comprehensive travel insurance. This is especially important if you’re travelling to more remote destinations or planning to participate in adventure activities.
Book activities in advance: Although October is generally quieter, popular activities and restaurants can still be fully booked. Secure your spots by booking in advance, especially for unique experiences like wine tastings in Tuscany or hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia.

Hidden gems to discover in October

For those seeking something out of the ordinary, October offers several exciting opportunities:

Transylvania, Romania

Experience Halloween in Dracula’s homeland. Visit medieval villages and castles nestled in misty forests. Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend, is particularly atmospheric this time of year.

Douro Valley, Portugal

Enjoy grape harvest time in this beautiful region. Participate in wine tastings, help with the harvest at a vineyard, and enjoy spectacular views over the terraced slopes. Take a cruise along the Douro River to see the valley from a different perspective.

Cappadocia, Turkey

See the fantastic rock formations from a hot air balloon. October offers stable weather and crystal-clear visibility, perfect for admiring the surreal landscape from above. Explore the underground cities and stay in a unique cave hotel for an unforgettable experience.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Hike between the charming villages along the Ligurian coast without summer’s oppressive heat and crowds. October offers perfect conditions for exploring the picturesque fishing villages, enjoying fresh seafood, and hiking along the spectacular coastal trails.

Finding a cheap trip in October is easy!

Travelling in October gives you a unique opportunity to experience the world from a different perspective. You can enjoy popular destinations in calmer conditions, often at lower prices, while also getting the chance to see places transform in autumn’s captivating colours.

With a bit of planning, flexibility, and an openness to new experiences, you can find fantastic deals that let you discover the world without emptying your savings. Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural city break, or an adventure in nature, there’s something for all tastes and budgets in October.

So start planning your trip today. Explore flight options, compare hotel prices, and be open to unexpected destinations. Remember that the best trip is often the one that surprises you, and October is full of opportunities for just such surprises. Pack your bag, open your mind, and set off on an autumn adventure you won’t soon forget. October might be your key to an unforgettable and affordable experience!