Weekend Getaway Guide

With inflation and economic concerns tightening most Americans’ wallets, the weekend getaway can be a bridge to sneaking in one more vacation without the expense (and time off work!) that comes with a week-long trip.  75% of Hopper users plan to take a weekend getaway sometime in the second half of this year, with most planning to fly (84%) and stay in a hotel (82%) or vacation rental home (34%). Surprisingly, 60% travelers are flexible when it comes to planning getaways, focused on finding the best deals rather than particular dates or destinations. We’ve rounded up the ultimate guide to getting the most for your money when planning a weekend getaway this year!

Where to go?

Whether it’s a bachelorette party, a romantic weekend away or a trip with friends, it can be hard to fit everyone’s budget when you’re planning a weekend getaway. We’ve rounded up the top destinations for weekend getaways this year that won’t break the bank. 

Airfare to these top domestic destinations will average less than $250 per round trip ticket from major US cities, with some offering airfare under $100 per ticket. Even if your group is joining from around the US, these destinations will be budget friendly!

Airfare to these top international destinations will average less than $500 per round trip ticket from major US cities, with some offering airfare under $100 per ticket.

*Based on average airfare for fall 2023 from Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York city and Phoenix. 

When to fly?

For travelers planning a budget friendly getaway, going at the right time is key to getting the best prices. The lowest prices will be available for trips in January, September and October. Not only will travelers get significantly lower prices traveling in these months, they’ll also avoid the crowds at airports and destinations that come with peak holiday or summer travel! 

Why are these months so much less expensive? January falls immediately after the holidays, when most Americans have traveled to spend time with friends and family, and spent on gifts, parties and more. Similarly, September and October fall right after the peak summer months, when travelers typically spend on larger bucket list vacations and have more flexibility given school vacations. When demand for travel is lower in these “in between” months, prices also drop. Meaning travelers can get incredible deals on getaways around the world. 

For those unable to travel right after the holidays or as school restarts in early fall, there is a short window of opportunity for trips the first two weeks of May. May falls after the spring break surge, and before the summer travel surge, and will offer some deals to travelers flexible on destination. 

When to buy?

Planning ahead and using price monitoring are key to getting the best prices for your getaway. For domestic trips, start monitoring prices 3-4 months in advance of your trip dates and expect to book 1-2 months in advance. For international trips, especially those to the Caribbean and Mexico, start monitoring prices 6 months in advance, and expect to book 3-4 months before your trip dates. Use a price monitoring tool like Hopper so you’re getting real time notifications of price, and when it’s the best time to book. 

How to Hack the Long Weekend

Many travelers planning a getaway will stretch out the weekend by tacking Thursday, Friday or Monday onto the trip. Extending the weekend doesn’t just give you more time to vacation, but can also help travelers find even better deals. 

Domestic

The most expensive long weekend will be departing Thursday and returning Sunday, averaging $281 per ticket this fall. Shifting travel to depart saturday and return tuesday will save travelers an average of 15% or $43 per ticket for a getaway. Traveling Friday to Monday can save travelers about 6% on airfare as well. 

Keep in mind, airfare for one night trips departing Saturday and returning Sunday will cost about the same as a 3 night trip starting on Thursday. If calendars are flexible, extend the trip for the same price, or shift dates to save!

International to Caribbean & Mexico

Mexico and the Caribbean Islands sit just a few hours flight from most major US airports, making them the ideal destinations for long weekend getaways. As with domestic trips, it pays to shift travel to off peak dates to save on airfare.

For trips to the Caribbean, fly Friday or Saturday and return Monday or Tuesday to save up to 8% or $35 off airfare. For trips to Mexico, save up to 10% or $45 per ticket by making the same shift!

Returning on a Sunday from any trip will typically come with a premium, so shift travel to end Monday or Saturday to ensure the best prices.

Accommodations

Where you stay on a trip can be one of the most important parts of having a great experience. There are so many options for travelers these days, it can be overwhelming to know what is right for your budget and your trip preferences. We’ve broken down three of the most common accommodation related debates to help you plan your next trip. 

The great accommodation debates: 

All inclusive package or not?

There is no right or wrong answer here! Whether an all inclusive package is right for you comes down to how you like to vacation. Always do your homework to understand what is included in a package (especially for those 21+ planning to enjoy the bar!) and reflect on how you expect to spend time during your stay to help make the right choice for your trip. 

Are you a foodie who will want to try a new restaurant every night? An adventure seeker who will spend most of their days outside of the property doing activities or exploring new sights and beaches? If so, an all inclusive package may not be worth it if you don’t plan to be eating, drinking and relaxing on the property for your stay. 

Looking to sit by a pool, have a drink or a snack at the drop of a hat and enjoy all of the amenities the property has to offer you? Then an all inclusive package could be a great way to save on both cost, and inconvenience! 

Vacation Rental or Hotel/Resort?

Booking a hotel, resort or vacation rental can be a huge decision when you’re planning a trip with a group. When it comes to where you stay, much of the decision should come down to what amenities you need and where you’re going. 

Travelers will pay about a 20% premium on average for a rental home (higher in some popular beach destinations), but for many travelers the premium is well worth it. For larger groups, vacation rentals can offer more space and privacy than traditional hotel rooms. For those traveling with children who may nap during the day or go to bed early, having a separate room for kids can be a lifesaver. Travelers looking to bring furry friends along typically appreciate pet friendly stays with yards or outdoor spaces for pets to enjoy. 

Hotels are typically less expensive than vacation home rentals, and can offer many amenities that make the stay worthwhile. Hotels often offer airport shuttles, onsite food and drink at hotel restaurants and daily housekeeping for fresh sheets and towels. Resorts and beachfront hotels will often also offer private beach access or a range of pools for families and adults only. Though hotels are typically less expensive than entire vacation rentals, keep in mind waterfront resorts in markets like Honolulu or San Juan, Puerto Rico can end up being pricier than a vacation rental stay. 

Getaway or Staycation?

The weekend getaway is a great way to sneak in a short trip or vacation into a busy school, work and life schedule. Most travelers look at destinations accessible by flight or a road trip, but can overlook the best deals and experiences right at home. The Staycation is a great way to save on travel expenses and unlock incredible deals. 

Oftentimes hotels and resorts will offer lower rates to customers who are local. Whether it’s a discount for residents of the state, county or town, these discounts can be substantial - and right outside your front door. Check out nearby hotels on the Hopper app and we’ll show you all of the best rates available to you as a local. Your best getaway yet might be right around the corner! 

Hopper Pro Tip: Make sure nothing gets between you and your dream celebration. Add Leave for Any Reason when booking your hotel – that way if you get to the hotel and it’s not perfect, you can rebook another hotel of the same star category in the app for free!

Keep in mind when planning your trip, Saturdays are the most expensive day of the week to spend at a hotel in the US. Anticipate paying a bit of a premium if your weekend getaway includes Saturday night. Able to skip the Saturday night stay? If you’re only traveling for one night, stay Friday to Saturday to save at least 10% off your nightly rate in the US.