October has become one of the most attractive months for international travel. Booking data published by Advantage Travel Partnership in July 2025 showed a 20% increase in September-October bookings year-on-year, with this expected to grow again in 2026, as travellers increasingly seek better value beyond the summer peak. Recent data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) highlights the growing popularity of shoulder-season travel as holidaymakers look to avoid overtourism and reduce costs.
Europe Shines During the Autumn Shoulder Season
For airlines, the shift toward shoulder-season travel is creating strong demand outside the peak summer months. Expanded air connectivity across Europe, Asia and long-haul leisure markets means travellers can access more destinations with greater flexibility than ever before. Airfare analysis from travel platforms such as Expedia and Skyscanner also consistently shows that autumn can offer lower average ticket prices than in July and August on many international routes, making October one of the best times to secure cheap autumn flights and travel deals.
As peak summer crowds disperse and temperatures become more comfortable across many regions, travellers can enjoy lower prices, fewer queues and more authentic experiences. Whether seeking Mediterranean sunshine, cultural city breaks or long-haul adventures, October offers one of the strongest combinations of affordability, accessibility and favourable weather conditions.
Airfare analytics from several global travel platforms also show that October often delivers lower average flight prices compared with July and August, particularly across Europe and parts of Asia. For travellers seeking warm weather, cultural discoveries or natural spectacles, the month offers an ideal balance of favourable conditions and affordability.
The Istrian coast of Croatia © Valery Collins
Airlines Benefit from the Rise of Shoulder-Season Travel
The growth in October travel reflects broader trends across the aviation industry. UN Tourism reported that international tourism remained highly resilient throughout 2025, with global arrivals increasing by 4-5% year-on-year and surpassing 1.5 billion international travellers worldwide. Improved air connectivity and expanded route networks were identified as key drivers behind this growth.
Europe, which remains the world’s largest tourism region, welcomed approximately 793 million international visitors in 2025, a 4% increase on the previous year. Strong aviation demand across Mediterranean destinations has encouraged airlines to extend summer schedules deeper into autumn, providing travellers with more flight options and competitive fares throughout October.
UN Tourism also reported that around 690 million tourists travelled internationally during the first half of 2025, demonstrating continued momentum for leisure travel despite economic pressures. Industry experts suggest this sustained demand is helping airlines maintain high levels of connectivity outside traditional peak periods.
Why October Travel Continues to Grow
Industry research indicates that shoulder-season travel is becoming increasingly popular among international tourists. Lower accommodation costs, improved flight availability and more comfortable weather conditions are driving demand across Europe, Asia and long-haul destinations. UN Tourism expects international travel demand to remain resilient as travellers continue to seek value-driven experiences and alternative travel periods.
For travellers seeking a balance between value, climate and authentic experiences, October remains one of the strongest months on the travel calendar. Whether exploring Rome’s ancient streets, sailing Croatia’s coastline or watching whales in Australia, the month offers opportunities that rival those available during the traditional summer holiday season.
What do you think are the best October holiday destinations for avoiding crowds and finding great value? Let us know in the comments below.
