New York when?

[biscuitdunkerette]

We are considering an October half term trip to NY with our teens. I’m wondering if it would make much difference to prices of flights and hotels to go this year versus next.

Is it better to book further in advance or not make much difference? Also how many nights would you say is best, considering jet lag/return to work and school?

thank you!

October is the perfect time to visit NYC. All the US schools are in session and it's not a holiday time (apart from Halloween - but that's one evening). We usually go at that time of year (family nearby). It's good from a weather POV too as it's usually bright and sunny. It can be chilly, but it can also be surprisingly warm - just depends on the year.

As for when to book - you can book flights around 11 months in advance, so looking at October this year those flights will have been on sale since last November. Take a look at the prices and see if they work for you. There are lots of airlines to choose from on the London-New York route so don't limit yourself to just BA or Virgin. United, American, Air India - there are lots of choices and different prices. Look on Skyscanner to get an idea.

As for length of trip - we've done as little as 3 nights and I wouldn't recommend it tbh! Too short, too exhausting, particularly with an overnight flight home usually (although there are daytime flights too). Personally I'd do 5-7 days and make sure you/your kids have at least 24-48 hours at home before you have to go back to school/work after you return.

I wouldn’t go in October this year, so close to the US election, as I think coverage of it it will overwhelm the trip. I would go either in the run uo ti Christmas or next autumn.

The jet lag coming back is quite tough. It's taken me a week to reset. I felt it most 6-9am.

I used to get over it quicker (5 days).

October sounds great if you have a two week half term. There's probably lots you can do to minimise and offset the jet lag as well. I regret not thinking about it and taking action myself.

Thanks so much folks. We only have a week and was thinking of combining with a trip to Boston but maybe that’s pushing it! Flying from Scotland which limits the airlines a bit

I live in New York. October is a great time to visit. Cool, but not cold and like PP said, our schools are all back, so it's not busy.

I fly back and forth a lot and recommend a night flight US-Uk and a lunchtime flight UK-US to minimize jetlag. I actually got back to NY yesterday, I'm at work, kids are at nursery and camp and we all feel fine and everyone, even the toddler, woke up at a fairly reasonable hour.

Re: the election - it really won't affect you as tourists. Yes, the news will be full of it, but you'll be out and about sightseeing and the election won't impact that.