As we move into the latter part of 2024, it’s the perfect time to plan your upcoming trips around the remaining public holidays. By leveraging these holidays, you can maximize your vacation time and explore new destinations without using too many of your precious leave days. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trips from September to December 2024.

September

Labor Day (September 2, Monday): Labor Day provides a three-day weekend, ideal for a short trip. This is a great time to visit popular tourist spots that may be less crowded than during the peak summer months. Think about exploring the scenic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest or enjoying the vibrant culture of cities like Chicago or New Orleans.

October

Columbus Day (October 14, Monday): Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the U.S., but it’s not observed in all states. In some places, such as California and Texas, it’s not recognized, while others celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead. Whether you’re observing Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, it’s still a great opportunity for a three-day weekend. Use this time to explore historical destinations like Washington D.C. or Boston. The fall foliage will be at its peak in many parts of the country, making it a perfect time for a road trip through the New England states.

November

Veterans Day (November 11, Monday): Veterans Day offers another long weekend. Consider visiting national parks like Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon, which are less crowded in the fall. It’s also an excellent time to explore the cultural and historical sites in cities like Philadelphia or San Antonio.

Thanksgiving (November 28, Thursday): Thanksgiving is one of the most significant holidays in the U.S., and it offers a four-day weekend for most people. If you’re looking to avoid the holiday rush, consider traveling internationally. Destinations in Europe, such as Paris or Rome, can be less crowded and offer a unique holiday experience. Alternatively, a relaxing beach vacation in the Caribbean could be the perfect way to unwind before the hectic holiday season.

December

Christmas (December 25, Wednesday): With Christmas falling mid-week, you have the option to take a few extra days off to extend your holiday break. This is a fantastic time for a winter getaway. Consider visiting ski resorts in Colorado or Vermont for a snowy holiday experience. If you prefer warmer climates, destinations like Florida or Southern California can offer a sunny escape from the winter chill.

Tips for Planning Your Trips

Book Early: Public holidays are peak travel times, so it’s wise to book your flights and accommodations as early as possible to secure the best deals. Popular destinations like Miami for a winter beach escape can fill up quickly.

Be Flexible: If possible, be flexible with your travel dates. Flying a day before or after the holiday can often save you money and reduce travel stress. For example, flying to Los Angeles a day early for Thanksgiving can help you avoid the holiday rush.

CFAR: Consider purchasing the “Cancel for any reason” option on justfly.com to protect your trip against unexpected cancellations. This is particularly useful if you’re planning a trip to international destinations like Paris for Christmas or Tokyo for a unique cultural experience.

Explore Alternatives: If popular destinations are too crowded or expensive, consider exploring lesser-known alternatives or national spots. These can offer similar experiences at a lower cost and without the crowds. Instead of visiting the crowded beaches of Hawaii during Labor Day, consider the tranquil shores of Puerto Rico. Similarly, instead of a bustling city trip to Chicago, explore the charm of Milwaukee.

Combine Holidays: If you have the flexibility, combining multiple holidays can create extended vacation opportunities. For example, by taking additional days off around Christmas and New Year’s, you can plan a longer trip to explore Europe, with destinations like London, Amsterdam, or Barcelona.

Local Festivals and Events: Research local festivals and events that coincide with your holiday travel dates. Attending events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October or the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival in November can add unique experiences to your trip.

By incorporating these tips into your travel planning, you can enjoy stress-free and memorable trips for the holidays, whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of New York City, relaxing on the sunny beaches of Florida, or being more adventurous with international travel.