The secret to better vacations is planning them when everyone else isn’t

Today’s travelers are discovering that the secret to better vacations is planning them when everyone else isn’t. By avoiding peak travel times, travelers enjoy the same weather, attractions and cultural experiences without encountering packed sidewalks or competing for reservations. More people now recognize that choosing these in‑between months opens opportunities for richer culture and less stressful itineraries.

From securing prime dinner reservations in sought-after restaurants to booking last-minute tickets for popular shows, traveling during shoulder season provides better access and flexibility. These benefits set the stage for understanding what shoulder season is and why it offers unique opportunities for more rewarding trips.

What is shoulder season?

Shoulder season falls between peak and low travel periods, when crowds thin but weather and activities remain pleasant. “Guests have realized that when traveling in shoulder season, they are often able to enjoy mild weather without the extreme crowds, allowing them more access to the destination, without the hassle,” says Lauren Alba, The Leading Hotels of the World’s VP of Global Marketing and Communications, in Forbes.

To expand on this, Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going, explains to Travel + Leisure, “Unlike busy peak seasons, shoulder seasons are periods when places see fewer tourists, yet are not quite as sleepy as the off-season; it’s more so the period between the two.” While the exact timing of shoulder season differs from country to country, the concept remains a sweet spot for travelers seeking a balance between activity and calm.

Cost and affordability

Shoulder season combines affordability and accessibility that peak travel times often lack. An August 2024 analysis of nearly 600 airfares in the United States found Christmas week flights averaged 57% more than those in late August, which is a classic shoulder season window. This price difference shows shoulder season travel delivers significant savings without sacrificing quality.

Slower pace

Exploring destinations without crowds allows travelers to build more personal connections with these places. Shoulder season’s lighter crowds let travelers linger in cafes, take unplanned detours and enjoy sights without the constant shuffle of other tourists. This slower pace creates space to appreciate small details that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Cultural connection

Engaging in community events and visiting smaller markets helps travelers connect to their destination’s culture. With fewer visitors, locals often have more time to share stories, traditions and insights that aren’t in the guidebooks. These exchanges create a genuine sense of connection that can transform a trip into something meaningful.

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In the U.S., this might mean chatting with artisans at Vermont’s weekend farmers’ market, joining a heritage festival in New Orleans or attending a small-town Midwest harvest fair. All these experiences offer authentic glimpses into regional traditions while supporting local economies.

The perfect dates

Picking dates just before or after peak months defines shoulder season, giving travelers access to mild weather and fewer crowds. Travel-planning apps like TripIt or Hopper make this easier, as they can track airfare fluctuations, peak-season trends and local event calendars. 

For many destinations, the shoulder season coincides with spring or autumn, though exact timing depends on the region’s tourism patterns. Researching the local travel calendar ensures that your trips align with optimal weather and reduced visitor numbers.

Pack for mild weather

Prepare for colder temperatures to make the most of shoulder season conditions. Layered clothing keeps travelers comfortable during cooler mornings, warmer afternoons and shifting climates. This flexibility in packing allows for greater comfort and enjoyment throughout the day.

Flexible plans

An open schedule means travelers can adapt to spontaneous opportunities. This flexibility allows travelers to adjust for local events, changing weather or local recommendations. A fluid itinerary often leads to richer, more memorable travel experiences.

The sweet spot travelers swear by

Shoulder season is the key to seeing the most authentic side of a place. The air feels lighter, streets move slower and every interaction feels warmer. And for anyone ready to swap the rush for a richer, more relaxed journey, those in-between months deliver the real magic.

Zuzana Paar, a co-founder of Food Drink Life, is a seasoned traveler and writer who has explored 62 countries and lived in St. Lucia, Dubai, Vienna, Doha and Slovakia. Her work has appeared on Fox News, New York Daily News, MSN and more; she has also appeared live on Chicago’s WGN Bob Sirott Radio Show. When she’s not discovering new destinations, she shares travel tips and insider insights to help others experience the world in a unique and unforgettable way.

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