October holidays 国庆节 are around the corner and China is bracing itself for the much-anticipated National Day Holiday (October 1st to October 7th) and the 175 million travelers that will be on the move during that period.
If you’re still figuring out your getaway or are simply curious about this year’s trend, ASI Movers has got you covered!
Today we take an in-depth look at what to expect and where to go, even if you’re planning a last-minute trip!
Travel Trends: What to Expect during October Holidays 2024
Wendy Wei on Pexels
More Affordable
Let’s start with some good news: this year’s October holidays will see a significant drop in travel costs.
This is largely due to increased flight capacity and competition in the market. Domestic and outbound flight prices have decreased by over 5% and 20-30% respectively compared to last year. Hotel rates have followed suit, which makes this holiday budget-friendly, even for last-minute planners.
Long-Distance Travel on the Rise
A breath of fresh air, natural sceneries, and a touch of local culture seem to be exactly what travelers are craving this season!
Over 60% of travelers are expected to go on long-distance trips, particularly to enjoy scenic autumn destinations like Zhangjiajie or Jiuzhaigou, rather than short local getaways.
Family Travel Dominates but the Youth is on the Move
Over 30% of bookings are being made for parent-child trips, with families often opting for educational or culturally interesting tourist spots. Nevertheless, young travelers aged 17 to 30 are on the rise!
Where do People Go: Trending & Rising Destinations
Major Cities
Major cities still hold the top positions as travel destinations during the October holidays.
If your plans involve places like Beijing, Hangzhou, and Chongqing, expect bustling crowds as people return home to see their families and visit the country’s most iconic landmarks.
Rural & Natural Sceneries Destinations are Booming
Over the years, rural tourism and nature sightseeing have been seducing more and more holidaygoers, reflecting a growing interest in exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, with some noting a 97% increase in rural tourism booking.
Zhangjiajie 张家界
Zhangjiajie remains at the top of the list of travel destinations for the October holidays. Popular in every season, this scenic landmark attracts those in search of breathtaking landscapes eager to experience “Avatar Mountains” in their vibrant autumnal colors.
Jiuzhaigou 九寨沟
Sichuan Aba, also known as Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, is also on the top of nature lovers' to-do list. Known for its breathtaking mountains and natural lakes, it is home to the World Heritage Site Jiuzhaigou Park, a natural reserve known for its many multi-level waterfalls and colorful lakes.
Zhangjiajie 张家界
Zhangjiajie remains at the top of the list of travel destinations for the October holidays. Popular during every season, this scenic landmark attracts those searching for breathtaking landscapes eager to experience “Avatar Mountains” in their vibrant autumnal colors.
Jiuzhaigou 九寨沟
Sichuan Aba, also known as Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, is also at the top of nature lovers' to-do lists. Known for its breathtaking mountains and natural lakes, it is home to the World Heritage Site Jiuzhaigou Park, a natural reserve known for its many multi-level waterfalls and colorful lakes.
Rising Hot Destinations
Xinjiang 新疆 & Sichuan 四川
Xinjiang and Sichuan have benefitted from lowering flight fares, making these regions attractive and affordable options for travelers looking for unique experiences away from the crowds.
Shanxi 陕西
The release of the game “Black Myth Wukong,” which takes place in Shanxi and more precisely Datong, has propelled the province as a top destination this year. Its rich history and scenic views only add to the appeal of the region.
Inner Mongolia 内蒙古
Known for its vast landscapes, cultural richness, and adventurous activities, Inner Mongolia is becoming increasingly popular. Feeling like sleeping under the stars and riding on horseback? Inner Mongolia is made for you!
Xinjiang 新疆 & Sichuan 四川
Xinjiang and Sichuan have benefitted from lowering flight fares, making these regions attractive and affordable options for travelers looking for unique experiences away from the crowds.
Shanxi 陕西
The release of the game “Black Myth Wukong,” which takes place in Shanxi and more precisely Datong, has propelled the province as a top destination this year. Its rich history and scenic views only add to the region's appeal.
Inner Mongolia 内蒙古
Inner Mongolia, known for its vast landscapes, cultural richness, and adventurous activities, is becoming increasingly popular. Feeling like sleeping under the stars and riding on horseback? Inner Mongolia is made for you!
Popular International Destinations
Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is a go-to option this year, thanks to decreased flight fares and relatively short flight times. Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia offer an affordable and accessible getawayfor those looking for an exotic trip on a budget.
Japan
Japan has also emerged as a popular destination thanks to increased flight availability and new visa-free policies. The mix of autumn foliage and cultural festivals makes it a perfect destination for October.
Australia & New Zealand
Meanwhile, Australia and New Zealand have gained momentum for their stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, perfect for a hike far away from the crowds, even though less budget-friendly.
Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is a go-to option this year, thanks to decreased flight fares and relatively short flight times. Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia offer an affordable and accessible gateway for those looking for an exotic trip on budget.
Japan
Japan has also emerged as a popular destination thanks to increased flight availability and new visa-free policies. The mix of autumn foliage and cultural festivals makes it a perfect destination for October.
Australia & New Zealand
Meanwhile Australia and New Zealand have gained momentum for their stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, perfect for a hike far away from the crowds, even though less budget-friendly.
Last-Minute Travel Tips
As we are gearing up for the October holiday, many are unfortunately still scrambling to plan last-minute getaways.
Thanks to the declining prices for flights and hotels this year, there is still time to book a spontaneous trip without breaking the bank. Here are our best tips:
- Go Off the Beaten Path
-
Look for Ticket Sales
-
Early Birds Catch the Best Deals
Many flight and hotel deals refresh early in the morning. We recommend you check multiple platforms like Trip.com, and hotel websites at the start of the day to catch the best offers.
Popular cities and major scenic spots are likely to already be fully booked, but there are still plenty of lesser-known locations to explore.
Consider regions like Yili (Xinjiang), Panzhihua (Sichuan), or Shangrao (Jiangxi), they offer stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences while remaining under mass tourism’s radar.
Flights from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are seeing significant discounts.
If you are in for last-minute booking, we recommend you check flight deals within 2-3 days before departure, as airlines often lower prices further to fill remaining seats. We recommend you use the very reliable Trip.com flight comparison tool for some insights on the most budget-friendly flights, trending destinations, and best deals.
- Travel Mid-Week or Extend your Trip
If you are flexible with your vacation dates, departing just before or after the holiday rush can help you save up to 50%. Not only will you avoid the busiest travel days, but you’ll also score cheaper accommodations.
Whether you're escaping to China’s scenic rural destinations or heading to Southeast Asia coasts, or still figuring out the details of your upcoming trip, ASI Movers' teams wish you happy holidays!
For the past 15 years, ASI Movers has been accompanying individuals, families and companies in their relocation journey. No matter the origin, the destination, the volume, or the project, we design the most adapted moving solution to fit your needs and requirement!
Sources:
- 国庆出游热潮来袭：探秘"十一"假期最佳目的地_旅游_旅行社_游客. Sohu. (2024, September 14).
- 国庆去哪儿？“黑马”目的地大预测. 关注森林网. (2024, September 3).
- 国庆长假近了！去哪儿玩？有这些小众打卡地. Baidu. (2024a, September 23).
- 携程发布"十一"预测报告：旅游双循环特点明显 这些地区值得捡漏. Baidu. (2024b, September 10).
Pictures Credits:
- Wendy Wei on Pexels.
- 征宇郑 on Pexels.
- Robs on Unsplash.
- ys .YANG on Pexels.
- Cajeo Zhang on Unsplash.
- Allan Tee on Pexels.
- Una Baufala on Pexels.
- Satoshi Hirayama on Pexels.
- Pixabay on Pexels.
- Prostooleh on Freepik.
