October might be my favorite month to travel, and I’ve got proof! While everyone else is back at their desks, I’m finding ridiculous flight deals to places that still feel like summer. After obsessing over prices and weather patterns (yes, I’m that person), I’ve discovered some seriously amazing spots that won’t make your wallet cry.
These are hands down the best places in October for travelers who love a good deal. I just scored tickets to Porto for less than I spend on coffee each month, and the weather is perfect for exploring with a glass of port in hand. Ready to discover 12 incredible destinations where your money actually goes the distance? Let’s make your fall travel dreams happen!
#1 tip to find cheap flights in October
Want to slash your airfare costs by up to 50% this October? The smartest move you can make is signing up for Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). Here’s how it works: enter your departure airport, set your destinations, and they’ll send you email alerts the second crazy-cheap fares pop up. We’re talking mistake fares, flash sales, and deals airlines don’t exactly want you to know about.
I’ve personally saved thousands this way. Just last October, I scored a $299 roundtrip from Boston to Barcelona. That one deal alone paid for years of membership. The free version is great, but their Premium plan ($49/year) is a total steal…one discounted flight and it pays for itself. And if you’re into flying business or first class, their Elite plan is next level. I saved over $5,000 on flights last year alone.
Here’s a bonus: use my coupon code JON25 and you’ll get 25% off your membership. Honestly, there’s no better way to travel smarter for less. Now let’s jump into the 12 cheap destinations you can fly to this October 2025.
Affordable Places to Fly to in October 2025
Looking for affordable places to fly to in October 2025? Visit Kinosaki-Onsen, Japan for its peaceful hot springs, Antalya, Turkey for beautiful Mediterranean beaches, New Orleans, USA for lively jazz music and historic charm, and Cancun, Mexico for stunning coastlines and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer great travel experiences in October 2025.
1. Kinosaki-Onsen, Japan ($750–$1,000 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 12-16 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines, United (usually with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Hot spring lovers 🧖♀️, culture seekers 🏮, fall foliage enthusiasts 🍁, food adventurers 🍜
Kinosaki-Onsen is a peaceful hot spring town that feels far removed from Japan’s busy cities. October brings cool weather, vibrant fall colors, and a quiet window between tourist seasons that makes this one of the best-value times to visit.
This charming little town is basically built for Instagram with its willow-lined canals, traditional wooden buildings, and locals strolling around in yukata robes between bath houses. The seven public onsen (hot springs) each have their own unique vibe and healing properties, and your ryokan stay typically includes a pass to visit them all.
To get there, roundtrip flights to Osaka typically range from $750 to $1,000, especially on ANA or Japan Airlines. From there, take the scenic train to Kinosaki in about two and a half hours. Booking three to four months in advance and flying midweek often brings the lowest fares.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Japan
- For more reading: Top Experiences in Kansai Region
- Keep reading: Beautiful Places in Japan
- Also worth reading: Cheapest Airports to Fly into Japan
2. Antalya, Turkey ($500–$750 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 12-15 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Emirates (usually with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, history buffs 🏛️, adventure seekers 🧗♂️, budget travelers 💰
Antalya is where you can swim in turquoise waters in the morning and explore 2,000-year-old ruins by afternoon. In October, the weather stays warm, crowds disappear, and hotel rates drop by up to 50 percent.
The old town (Kaleiçi) feels like stepping into another century with its narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman mansions, and ancient Roman harbor. Just outside the city, the ruins of Termessos sit dramatically on a mountain plateau with zero crowds and panoramic views that make basic European ruins look boring. Beach day? Kaputaş Beach has that unreal turquoise water you’ve seen on social, and Lara Beach stretches for miles with perfect sand and water still warm enough for swimming.
Roundtrip flights usually range from $500 to $750, with Turkish Airlines offering the best deals through Istanbul. Book three to four months in advance and travel midweek for the lowest fares.
For Mediterranean beauty without the tourist crowds or summer heat, Antalya is hard to beat in the fall.
- Read next: Stunning Places to Visit in Turkey
- You may also like: Hidden Gems in Turkey
3. New Orleans, USA ($150–$300 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 1-5 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, Delta, American (usually nonstop from many cities)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Food lovers 🍽️, music enthusiasts 🎷, history buffs 🏛️, party people 🍹
New Orleans in October finally cools down, with sunny days in the 70s and way fewer crowds. It’s the sweet spot between summer swelter and winter festival chaos, and flight prices drop with the humidity.
The French Quarter is actually enjoyable when you’re not sweating through your clothes, with street performers on every corner and historic buildings sporting those iconic wrought-iron balconies. Frenchmen Street offers better live jazz than touristy Bourbon, where locals actually hang and musicians kill it nightly. There’s also the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 which gets extra atmospheric in fall, or City Park where massive oak trees draped in Spanish moss create the perfect October vibe.
Getting to the Big Easy is ridiculously affordable from almost anywhere in the US. Southwest Airlines connects New Orleans with most major cities, frequently dropping October deals below $200 roundtrip. Delta and American frequently match prices through hubs in Atlanta or Dallas.
- Read next: Things to Do in the French Quarter
- You may also like: Things to Do in New Orleans at Night
- For more reading: Gorgeous Places in New Orleans
- Keep reading: Unique Restaurants in New Orleans
INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $139 roundtrip fare from Boston to New Orleans with Delta. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.
4. Cancun, Mexico ($250–$450 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 2-5 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Spirit, American (usually nonstop from many cities)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, water sports fans 🏄♀️, cenote explorers 🌊, party seekers 🍹
Cancun is a Caribbean hotspot that delivers on white sand beaches, turquoise water, and nightlife that won’t quit. It’s especially perfect in October when prices nosedive but everything stays warm and gorgeous.
The Hotel Zone beaches are actually enjoyable when you’re not playing human Tetris with other tourists, and you can snag beachfront loungers without waking up at dawn. Venture to nearby Isla Mujeres for those transparent waters you keep seeing on Instagram, or dive into the refreshing cenotes (natural sinkholes) that are scattered throughout the region. Chichen Itza is way more impressive when you’re not standing in a 2-hour line or melting in 100-degree heat.
Roundtrip fares often fall between $250 and $450, with JetBlue and American offering solid deals. Spirit may dip under $200 from select cities, but watch out for add-on fees.
For warm water, easy adventure, and lower prices, Cancun is the perfect fall beach break before sweater season starts back home.
- Read next: Must-See Places in Yucatan Peninsula
- You may also like: Beautiful Places to Visit in Mexico
- For more reading: Best Places to Live in Mexico
- Keep reading: Cheapest Airports to Fly into Cancun
- Also worth reading: Unique Places to Eat in Mexico City
5. Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ($275–$500 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 3-6 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, American, United (usually nonstop from East Coast)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, adventure seekers 🧗♀️, budget travelers 💰, kitesurfers 🏄♂️
Puerto Plata offers all the tropical vibes without the Punta Cana price tag. October is the sweet spot, with warm ocean temps near 84°F, smaller crowds, and resort rates up to 50 percent lower than peak season.
The stunning Playa Dorada offers that golden sand beach experience with way fewer resorts than the country’s more famous destinations. Take the cable car up to Mount Isabel for insane views of the coastline that’ll rack up likes on your feed. For adventure, Damajagua Falls lets you slide down 27 natural water slides through the jungle, while the beach town of Cabarete is literally world-famous for kitesurfing with perfect October wind conditions.
Flights to paradise are surprisingly affordable in fall. JetBlue often runs direct flights from New York and Boston with October deals sometimes dropping below $350 roundtrip. American Airlines and United catch up with connecting specials through Miami and Newark.
- Read next: Scenic Places to Live in the Dominican Republic
- You may also like: Airlines to Fly to the Dominican Republic
- For more reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic
6. Lisbon, Portugal ($425–$700 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 7-9 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: TAP Air Portugal, United, Delta (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Culture lovers 🏰, food enthusiasts 🍷, photography buffs 📸, budget travelers 💰
Lisbon is a city of colorful hillside neighborhoods, vintage trams climbing impossibly steep streets, and centuries-old tiles that turn ordinary buildings into works of art.
The Alfama District is where you’ll find the most authentic vibes. It’s a maze of narrow streets where old ladies hang laundry from balconies and tiny hidden bars play traditional Fado music. Hit up São Jorge Castle for killer views of the city. When you’re hungry, you’ve gotta try Time Out Market where they’ve basically collected all the best local food under one roof so you don’t waste meals on tourist traps.
If you visit in October, the summer crowds have vanished, but the weather stays surprisingly pleasant with temps in the high 60s and plenty of sunny days. Plus, October brings harvest season, making it prime time for wine tasting in nearby regions like the Douro Valley.
TAP Air Portugal runs nonstop flights from major US cities, with October fares sometimes dipping below $500 roundtrip. They also offer a free stopover option, letting you explore Lisbon for a few days before continuing elsewhere in Europe.
- Read next: Best Cities to Move to in Portugal
- You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Lisbon
- For more reading: Landmarks and Attractions in Lisbon
- Keep reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in Portugal
7. Vancouver, Canada ($250–$450 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 2-6 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Air Canada, Alaska, United (usually nonstop from many cities)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🌲, foodies 🍜, urban explorers 🏙️, outdoor adventurers 🚵♀️
Vancouver delivers big city energy with instant access to the outdoors. In October, the leaves turn gold and red, crowds thin out, and hotel prices drop by up to 30 percent.
Stanley Park is bigger and better than Central Park, with a 5.5-mile seawall path where you can bike with ocean on one side and forest on the other. The Capilano Suspension Bridge lets you walk 230 feet above a forest canyon for those epic Instagram shots. For food, Granville Island Public Market is packed with local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to artisanal chocolates, and the Asian food scene in Richmond is literally better than most places in Asia.
Scoring cheap flights to Vancouver is super easy in fall. Roundtrip flights usually range from $250 to $450, with deals often dipping below $300 from California. From Seattle, you might snag Alaska Airlines fares under $200.
With mountains, markets, and mild fall weather, Vancouver is an easy and unforgettable fall getaway.
- Read next: Prettiest Spots in Vancouver
- You may also like: Unique Winter Experiences in Vancouver
- For more reading: Family-Friendly Experiences in Vancouver
- Keep reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Vancouver
8. Tenerife, Spain ($500–$800 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 9-13 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Iberia, Air Europa, TAP Portugal (usually with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, volcano hikers 🌋, star gazers 🌠, winter escapers ☀️
Tenerife is literally Europe’s Hawaii but nobody talks about it. This volcanic island off Africa’s coast keeps summer vibes going all through October with 75°F temps and beaches that stay swimmable while the rest of Europe starts freezing.
Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak with this otherworldly landscape that looks like Mars. You can take a cable car up or hike if you’re feeling extra, and the stargazing here is insane (they literally have laws against light pollution). Playa de las Teresitas has imported Saharan gold sand and palm trees that’ll make your friends think you’re in the Caribbean. And Los Gigantes cliffs are these massive rock walls that drop straight into the ocean, perfect for boat trips or cliff-jumping if you’ve got the guts.
Roundtrip flights typically run between $500 and $800, with Iberia offering solid October fares through Madrid. TAP Portugal sometimes undercuts them with Lisbon stopovers that you can extend for free.
- Read next: Stunning Places to Visit in Spain
- You may also like: Prettiest Places in the Canary Islands
- For more reading: Budget Airlines for Cheap Flights to Europe
EXPERT ADVICE: If you’re planning a trip to Europe, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Going (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I was notified of a $280 roundtrip fare from the US to Spain with LEVEL. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year. And if business class is more your speed, then upgrade to the Elite Version, where I’ve spent under $1,200 on international flights abroad!
9. Mexico City, Mexico ($250–$450 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 3-5 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Aeromexico, United, American (usually nonstop from many cities)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Culture seekers 🏛️, food obsessives 🌮, art lovers 🎨, budget travelers 💰
Mexico City serves up Paris-level culture and food at a fraction of the price. October is ideal, with clear skies, 70°F days, and the city buzzing with Day of the Dead preparations. Expect altars, marigolds, and papel picado banners lining the streets.
Frida Kahlo’s Blue House is way cooler than any stuffy European art museum, with her actual paintings and personal items in the home where she lived. The ancient Teotihuacan Pyramids let you climb structures older than anything in Europe, and the view from the top is absolutely worth the burn in your legs. For food, skip the tourist spots and hit the Mercado de San Juan where you can sample everything from grasshopper tacos to exotic fruits you’ve never even heard of.
Flights to Mexico’s capital are ridiculously affordable year-round. From Texas hubs, you can sometimes score Aeromexico or American deals below $250 roundtrip.
Mexico City’s unbeatable mix of art, ancient ruins, and food makes it a fall getaway that’s anything but basic.
- Read next: Best Places to Live in Mexico
- You may also like: Must-See Places in Mexico City
- For more reading: Cheapest Places to Fly from Mexico City
10. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ($650–$900 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 18-24 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: EVA Air, Korean Air, Japan Airlines (usually with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Food adventurers 🍜, history buffs 🏛️, coffee lovers ☕, bargain hunters 💰
Ho Chi Minh City (still called Saigon by locals) is sensory overload in the best possible way, where your daily food budget can be under $15 and still be the best meals of your life. October is ideal when monsoon season wraps up, bringing sunny days with temps in the 80s instead of the usual steam bath.
The city is this crazy mix of French colonial buildings next to sleek skyscrapers, where you’ll see luxury cars dodging hundreds of motorbikes carrying everything from families of four to live pigs. Ben Thanh Market is retail chaos in the best way, where you can haggle for literally anything. Take a break from the urban intensity at Giac Lam Pagoda, the city’s oldest temple dating back to 1744.
Flights often range from $650 to $900, with the best deals on EVA Air or Korean Air through Taipei or Seoul. October is a great time to find 5-star hotels under $100 and enjoy the city without the crowds.
For a wild, rewarding, and affordable adventure, HCMC delivers far more than you’d expect for the price.
- Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Vietnam
- You may also like: Must-See Places in Ho Chi Minh City
- For more reading: Top Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City
- Keep reading: Best Places to Live in Vietnam
- Also worth reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Vietnam
11. Barcelona, Spain ($450–$700 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 8-11 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Iberia, American, Norwegian (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Architecture fans 🏛️, beach lovers 🏖️, nightlife seekers 🌃, foodies 🥘
Barcelona is that rare city where you can check out mind-bending architecture in the morning, hit the beach after lunch, and still have energy for clubs that don’t even get started until 2AM.
La Sagrada Familia is otherworldly, and in October you can actually book timed entry without planning months ahead. Park Güell feels like stepping into a Dr. Seuss book with its colorful mosaics and twisty structures. The beaches? Barceloneta is still totally doable in this month and you can actually find space to lay your towel down unlike summer when it’s just a sea of sunburned Europeans.
Flights typically range from $450 to $700, with Iberia and American offering solid fall deals out of East Coast cities. Norwegian also drops prices from select hubs if you’re fine with fewer frills.
For a fall trip that blends beach days, food, and architecture with real savings, Barcelona checks every box.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Barcelona
- You may also like: Things to Do for Young People in Barcelona
- For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Barcelona
- Keep reading: Prettiest Spots in Barcelona
- Also worth reading: Budget Travel in Barcelona
- Readers also enjoyed: Unique Restaurants in Barcelona
- Don’t miss this: Things to Do in Barcelona at Night
12. Auckland, New Zealand ($800–$1,100 roundtrip)
- ✈️ Flight Time: 13-17 hours (from major US cities)
- 🛫 Airlines: Air New Zealand, United, Qantas (usually with 1 stop)
- 🔥 Perfect for: Nature enthusiasts 🏞️, adventure seekers 🧗♀️, wine lovers 🍷, Lord of the Rings fans 🧙♂️
October is spring in New Zealand, which means blooming gardens, perfect 65°F weather, and far fewer tourists than in summer.
The city is built on 48 dormant volcanoes with Mount Eden giving you those jaw-dropping 360° views, where you can literally see both harbors at once. Need beach vibes? The black sand beaches at Piha are just 30 minutes from downtown and have these insane waves that hardcore surfers travel across the world to catch. If you’re more into wine than wiping out, hop the ferry to Waiheke Island where you can day-drink at vineyards with views so good they make Napa look basic, all while spending way less.
Flights typically cost $800 to $1,100 roundtrip, with the best deals popping up 4 to 5 months out from West Coast cities. Air New Zealand runs frequent shoulder-season sales, and one-way routes into Auckland and out of Christchurch help you explore more without backtracking.
- Read next: Best Places to Live in New Zealand
- You may also like: Prettiest Places to Visit in New Zealand
- For more reading: Cheapest Airports to Fly into New Zealand
- Keep reading: Hidden Gems in New Zealand
FAQs about the Cheapest Places to Fly in October
Got questions about cheap travel in October? Our FAQ section has all the answers you need to plan your budget-friendly getaway.
Where is the cheapest to fly to in October?
In October, places like Cancun, Mexico, and Lisbon, Portugal become cheaper to fly to. Airlines offer lower prices as the peak season winds down. This makes it a great time to explore these destinations without spending a lot on flights. Look for special promotions and last-minute deals to save even more.
Where is the best vacation spot in October?
The best vacation spot in October depends on what you enjoy. For beach lovers, Cancun offers warm, sunny days. If you prefer city tours and mild weather, Lisbon is perfect. Nature enthusiasts will find Auckland’s springtime ideal for outdoor activities. Each place has its unique charm in October.
Is it cheaper to fly in September or October?
Generally, it’s cheaper to fly in October. September still catches the tail end of the summer travel season, meaning higher prices. By October, demand drops, and so do flight prices. This makes October a great month for finding flight deals.
Is October a good month to fly?
Yes, October is a good month to fly. The weather is still pleasant in many parts of the world, but the crowds have thinned out. Airlines and hotels lower their prices to attract travelers. This combination of good weather and lower costs makes October ideal for flying.
What are some tips for finding where to fly cheap in October?
To find where to fly cheap in October, start by searching for flights in incognito mode to get fresh deals. Use flight comparison websites to compare prices across different airlines. Be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Often, mid-week flights are cheaper. Signing up for airline newsletters can also alert you to flash sales and exclusive deals.
How can I get the best flight deals in October?
For the best flight deals in October, book your flight well in advance. Keep an eye on price trends to know the best time to buy. Use fare alert tools on travel websites to notify you when prices drop for your desired route. Consider flying out from and returning to different airports if it saves money.
Where is the cheapest place to fly in October for a beach vacation?
For a beach vacation, Cancun is one of the cheapest places to fly in October. The weather is still suitable for the beach, and resorts offer off-season rates. Other affordable beach destinations include Tenerife, Spain, where the climate remains warm and welcoming.
What destinations offer cultural experiences at low cost in October?
Cities like Mexico City and Lisbon offer rich cultural experiences at a low cost in October. Museums, historical sites, and cultural festivals are less crowded, providing a more intimate experience. Public transportation and affordable dining options make these cities great for travelers looking to immerse themselves in local culture without overspending.
- Looking for the cheapest places to travel in October? Don’t forget to sign up for Going to get the best possible deal on airfare this year! Happy Travels! -Jon
