Tired of sharing your vacation with thousands of strangers?
Tourists flock to the same places every summer. They all arrive at the same time too. And what happens?
- Long lines at every attraction
- Packed restaurants with no tables
- Prices that make your wallet cry
Here's the problem:
Most people ponder for hours on end about WHERE they want to go. Hardly any will spend five minutes contemplating WHEN they should go. But the "when" can be the make or break of your entire trip.
Meet shoulder-season travel. It's one of the easiest travel tricks ever. The best part is it's free to use.
Here's what's inside:
- What Is Shoulder-Season Travel?
- 3x Big Benefits Of Traveling In Spring And Fall
- How To Get The Most Out Of Shoulder Season
What Is Shoulder-Season Travel?
Shoulder season falls between high season and low season. In most destinations, shoulder season is spring (April-May) and fall (September-Oct.).
The weather's still fine. The stores and attractions are still open. But the crowds? Oh they've mostly gone home.
Spring and fall also allow you to consider vacation rentals that may be inaccessible in July. Imagine a pueblo-style luxury estate tucked away in the high desert…massive adobe walls, a kiva fireplace that warms the space, and a secluded courtyard with mountain views. During the summer months, these properties can book up six months out. But during spring and fall, many of your favorite Santa Fe luxury vacation rentals have more availability, cooler mornings, and just enough time to relax in that pueblo-style luxury estate.
Pretty cool, right?
Head somewhere people like to visit during the summer. Then visit when there aren't crowds. Literally anyplace fits this category. Travel a few weeks before or after peak season. Seriously, that's all there is to it.
3x Big Benefits Of Traveling In Spring And Fall
Traveling during the shoulder season has benefits beyond avoiding crowds. Here are three ways it can actually improve your trip.
Better Value
When demand drops, prices usually follow.
Airlines and hotels are aware that less people travel after school starts. In order to stimulate demand, they slash prices to fill up seats and hotel rooms. Flights from the US to Europe in 2026 are around 22% cheaper in the fall than in summer.
But here's the kicker…
The discount used to be greater than that. European flights during the fall used to be 33% cheaper than summer months. More people have learned of the shoulder-season trick, so discounts aren't as huge.
That doesn't mean there is no value. It just means you have to be a bit smarter about it. Price is only one aspect of value. Here's what you get for your money:
- Shorter wait times
- Easier bookings
- Better service from staff who aren't rushed off their feet
You get more trips for every dollar you spend.
Fewer Crowds
This is the benefit most travelers notice first.
Think about it:
During high season, you may wait an hour in line for one attraction. During shoulder season, you can usually skip the line altogether. Museums aren't busy. Trails aren't crowded. It's easy to wander around local markets.
Plus, locals aren't inundated with tourists. They have time to talk. You'll receive genuine suggestions. Honest conversation. An authentic experience.
That's a win-win-win.
Oh yeah… there's another secret perk. Less crowds means great photos, easy parking, and no waking up at the crack of dawn just to "beat the crowd." You can go at YOUR own pace.
Less stress = a better vacation.
Nicer Weather
Summer is way too hot in many places. Winter is too cold sometimes, and things close down for the season.
Spring and fall are smack dab in the middle. During these seasons, days are hot and nights are chilly. Hours outside won't roast you.
Spring gives you blossoming wildflowers and rolling green hills. Fall brings golden leaves, harvest festivals and crisp blue skies. Each season is perfect for long walks, dinners on the patio and scenic drives.
Shifts in travel plans based on weather aren’t shocking. Of advisors who say their clients are altering travel plans due to weather conditions, 76% of those advisors report those clients are booking shoulder-season or non-peak dates.
Comfortable weather and quiet places are the new luxury.
How To Get The Most Out Of Shoulder Season
Step one is choosing the best season. Here's how to get the most bang for your travel buck.
Book Early (Yes, Even In Shoulder Season)
Shoulder season travel is increasing year after year. Top notch stays and flights book quickly.
Begin searching two or three months prior to your travel dates. This will provide you with the widest selection and the best opportunity to find a low price.
Travel Midweek
Weekends will ALWAYS be busy. Even during the low season. Aim for arriving Tuesday or Wednesday and depart before Friday.
You'll often find lower rates and even quieter streets.
Choose A Stay That Matches The Season
This is where a lot of travelers miss out.
Shoulder season lends itself well to slow travel. Pick somewhere you actually WANT to hang out. Pueblo-style luxury homes, for instance, were made for cool desert nights. You’ll enjoy:
- Thick walls that hold warmth
- Cozy fireplaces for chilly nights
- Outdoor patios for sunny afternoons
In nice weather a good home becomes an extension of your travels… it's where you live, not just sleep.
Check Local Events
Some towns hold their largest festivals during the spring or fall. That can be enjoyable, but can also create a brief time of higher prices and more crowds.
Check your local calendar first before you make reservations. Then determine if you want to attend the party or schedule around it.
Pack In Layers
Shoulder-season weather can swing from warm to chilly in one day. Bring:
- A light jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A sweater for the evenings
Simple, right? A few smart packing choices mean you're ready for anything.
Time To Rethink Your Travel Calendar
Traveling during the shoulder season is one of the simplest ways to upgrade your trip. You don't need to increase your budget. You merely need to adjust your dates.
To quickly recap:
- Travel in spring or fall to skip the summer rush
- Enjoy better value, fewer crowds, and nicer weather
- Book early and aim for midweek dates
- Pick a stay you'll love spending time in
- Check local events and pack in layers
The savings may not be quite as grandiose as they used to be. However, shorter lines and less hectic streets and sunny spring days are still priceless.
So next time you plan a getaway, don't just ask where.
Ask when.