NEW YORK (Money) -- Summer vacation season is officially over for most people and that's when really savvy travelers go away.

The autumn is a great time to take a break: the weather is still nice in many popular destinations but the summer crowds are gone and bargains abound.

More Americans are catching on to post-Labor Day deals: Fall vacation bookings are up 4 percent this year vs. last year, according to AAA.

"Fall is a great time to travel because it's considered off-peak," says Barbara Messing, vice president of online travel site Hotwire. "That means deep discounts for leisure travelers on airfares and hotel rooms." Plan your trip right after Thanksgiving or before Christmas and "you can stay in a 4-star hotel, on a beach, for around $100 a night," she says.

Keep in mind that hurricane season goes through Nov. 30th, so if you're heading south, consider investing in travel insurance or staying at a hotel that offers a full refund if weather disrupts your travel plans.

Here's where to find the bargains this fall.