Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer, the last long weekend before fall, and most likely the weekend you want to sneak out of town for one last summer adventure. If you’re thinking of last-minute Labor Day weekend getaways to squeeze out a little bit more fun in the sun, you’re probably wondering how you’re going to pull it off. As the holiday weekend approaches, flights have filled up and available hotel rooms are sparse, and whatever is left out there is getting pretty pricey.
If you don’t want to pay way too much for your Labor Day vacation, you have to do a bit of strategizing. Luckily for you, we’ve done the legwork, so you can have all the fun!
Avoid the Popular Labor Day Spots
Certain cities tend to shine in the Labor Day spotlight, but you can save more and ditch the large crowds by thinking just a little outside the box. Rather than looking for big cities, try smaller towns and communities where there are still main attractions that you can enjoy without breaking the bank on flights, hotels and restaurants.
Consider such non-traditional Labor destinations as Park City, Utah; Gulfport, Florida; and New Braunfels, Texas. Other off-the-beaten-path locations include Roswell, New Mexico; Knoxville, Tennessee; Huntington Beach, California; Mystic, Connecticut; and Camden, Maine. The Labor Day Road Less Traveled might also lead you to Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina; Sandbridge, Virginia; Black Hills, South Dakota; and the New York Finger Lakes.
Look for Local Festivals or Events
Again, smaller towns and regions may offer their own hidden gems during Labor Day weekend in the form of local festivals, fairs, or special events. Instead of heading to the usual tourist-packed destinations, check for towns near you that are hosting something special for the holiday. These lesser-known celebrations often come with smaller crowds, lower costs, and a more laid-back atmosphere. Whether it’s a local food festival, an arts and crafts fair, or a live music event, these gatherings can provide plenty of entertainment while keeping your travel and accommodation costs more reasonable.
Consider Traveling Before or After Labor Day
Ever heard of those people who celebrate the winter holidays after they’ve taken place? There’s something to be said for shopping and traveling after the holidays, when almost everything is marked down. Well, why not apply that philosophy to Labor Day?
If you have a bit of flexibility with your travel dates and you want to ditch the crowds and save some cash, it might be worth it to celebrate Labor Day before or after the actual weekend. Prices tend to take a big leap for Labor Day weekend in terms of hotels, car rentals, and flights. If you’re looking to save some cash, you can always travel before Labor Day or the weekend after the holiday. Rates are a bit lower than the official holiday weekend, leaving you with a little more in your pocketbook.
Try the Three-Hour Test
For procrastinators, going to far-flung places for Labor Day isn’t always possible, and it can be expensive. Flights are costly, hotels are booked, and longer trips come with more expenses like gas and meals. However, you can still make last-minute Labor Day weekend getaways happen without breaking the bank by using the Three-Hour Test. Pull out a map and calculate destinations that are within three hours of your home. By sticking to nearby locations, you can save money on flights and lodging while avoiding the added costs of long-distance travel. Plus, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your mini-vacation without spending too much of your budget on getting there.
Do Your Research Before Clicking Purchase
You might have scored a great last-minute Labor Day flight to a destination you’ve never heard of because it was affordable. While this kind of travel can be exciting, it can also turn disastrous. Labor Day weekend is short; you only really have about three to four full days to spend in a destination without factoring in travel time. If it takes several flights or long car rides to reach the destination, it might not be worth the cheap ticket. You’ll have very little time to actually spend on vacation if you have to make several connections.
Also, you don’t want to be stuck in a destination with no attractions. Or maybe the city or town has seen better days. In some cases, there’s a reason why cities are so cheap to travel to. Do your research in advance before clicking purchase. Sometimes it’s worth spending a bit more to be where you want to be and when you want to be there!
Consider Vacation Rentals Over Hotels
With hotels often booked or charging steep rates for last-minute stays, vacation rentals can be an attractive alternative. Platforms that offer short-term rentals often have last-minute availability in desirable areas, even on busy holiday weekends. Vacation rentals also give you more space and the flexibility to prepare your own meals, which can be a major cost-saver, especially in high-priced dining areas. You may even find properties that offer a more local experience, allowing you to feel like a temporary resident rather than just a visitor.
Embrace the Staycation
If the idea of battling crowds, paying inflated prices, or dealing with travel logistics isn’t appealing, there’s always the option of a staycation. If all else fails, Labor Day is the perfect time to explore your own backyard, visiting those local spots you’ve been meaning to check out. Whether it’s hiking a nearby trail, dining at that new restaurant you’ve heard so much about, or taking a day trip to a local museum, a staycation can offer just as much relaxation and adventure as a trip out of town — all without the added stress of travel.
FAQs:
Q: What are some budget-friendly ways to book last-minute travel?
A: Look for flash sales on travel websites, use fare alerts, or consider using points and rewards from your credit cards. Check vacation rentals or consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or motels. Traveling by bus or train may also offer cheaper last-minute options than flying.
Q: How can I save money on dining during a last-minute trip?
A: Choose vacation rentals with kitchens so you can cook some meals. Pack snacks for road trips or flights, and research affordable local restaurants or food trucks. Many areas have local markets where you can pick up fresh and inexpensive meals or ingredients.
Q: What are some alternative transportation options to save money?
A: Consider taking public transportation, using rideshare services, or renting bikes to get around your destination. If you’re driving, carpooling with friends or family can cut costs. Avoid renting a car unless necessary, as rental fees and gas prices are often higher during holiday weekends.
Q: How do I find last-minute activities or events at my destination?
A: Check local tourism websites, social media, or apps like Eventbrite to find events and activities happening during Labor Day weekend. Many cities and towns host festivals, fairs, and other events that may not be widely advertised but can be affordable and entertaining.
Q: Is it possible to cancel a booking if I find a better deal later?
A: Some airlines, hotels, and vacation rental platforms offer flexible booking options or free cancellations within a certain window. Always check the cancellation policy before booking. Booking with points through credit cards may also give you more flexibility to change plans without fees.
Q: How do I avoid high parking fees in busy areas?
A: Look for public transportation options to avoid parking altogether. If driving is necessary, research free or low-cost parking lots, or check if your accommodation includes free parking. Apps like ParkWhiz can also help you find cheaper parking in popular areas.
Q: Can I still book tours or excursions last-minute?
A: Yes, many tour companies offer last-minute availability, especially during holiday weekends. Use apps or websites that specialize in bookable tours and experiences with availability close to your travel dates. Some activities may also have discounted rates for last-minute bookings.
Do you have any tips on how to snag deals on last-minute Labor Day weekend getaways? Post them in the comments below!
I’ve read about a million articles on how to get cheap travel and they all have the same “hacks”, however this article actually thought me some new tricks! Thanks so much!