The rich colors of autumn are inspiring more tourists to book fall getaways. In fact, fall is becoming a travel season of its own rather than an off season. With the first holiday weekend of fall upon us, many people are looking to travel. 

According to a recent AAA Travel survey, more than half (55%) of American adults are planning a vacation of at least one overnight stay before the end of next year. One-third (31%) of U.S. travelers say they are more likely to purchase travel insurance for their trips planned between now and the end of 2022, specifically due to the pandemic. 

Recent AAA Travel bookings have increased 11% over 2019 levels, though many travelers are now booking in advance or using travel credits from disrupted trips. Travel has greatly improved from one year ago when travel for New Yorkers was limited due to a quarantine requirement. 

Here are the top trends for travel this holiday weekend based on AAA bookings and requests for maps and tour books: 

• Orlando theme parks
• Adirondacks region 
• Finger Lakes
• Vermont 
• New Hampshire 
• Wine Trails (Niagara, Chautauqua, Finger Lakes)
• Snowbirds are beginning to make their way down south to Florida and other warmer destinations
• State Parks (Niagara Falls State Park, Letchworth State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, Allegany State Park)

New York State Parks offer beautiful views, the opportunity to social distance and travel safely. To predict the best time to view fall foliage, AAA WCNY recommends Leafpeepers or I Love New York websites.

The AAA Travel survey also found that six in 10 Americans (60%) see the benefit of working with a travel agent to plan their upcoming trips. When it comes to international travel, AAA travel experts are up to date on the latest safety protocols from each country and can guide travelers in today’s complex travel environment. Here are the top three reasons that travelers say they currently want to use a travel advisor:

• To save time when researching or planning a vacation (40%)
• For help with complicated new travel restrictions/requirements (34%) 
• To find the best deals (33%)

Gas Prices: Oil prices are driving up gas prices this week. Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.24, up $1.06 from last year. The New York State average is $3.32, also up $1.06.

Safety: The pandemic is ongoing, and travelers should remember to pack masks and hand sanitizer, and beware that rules vary depending on the destination. Use AAA’s Covid-19 Travel Restrictions Map at TripTik.AAA.com for the latest state and local travel restrictions. AAA Travel Consultants are on standby to assist travelers in-person, over the phone, or with virtual travel planning meetings. Learn more at www.AAA.com/Travel.