Do you love traveling, but hate the high prices and crowds that come with peak season?
If so, you’re like most people.
But did you know that you can often find cheaper flights, accommodations, and sometimes even better weather when traveling during the shoulder or off-season?
Peak season is the time of year when travel demand is highest, and prices reflect that. But shoulder and off-season travel can offer some benefits if you know where to look. Here are a few reasons why you should consider traveling off-season:
1. You’ll Get to See the Real Side of a Destination
When you travel during the off-season, you’ll get the destination in its natural state. This is beneficial if you’re traveling to a popular tourist destination often overrun with visitors. Seeing a destination without all the hustle and bustle can give you a more authentic experience.
2. Cheaper Flights
Off-season travel typically means cheaper flights. Airlines know demand is lower during these times, so they’re often willing to offer discounts to fill up their planes. You can usually find round-trip flights for under $200 during the off-season, whereas peak-season flights can easily cost twice.
3. Cheaper Accommodations
As with flights, hotels and other accommodations are typically cheaper during the off-season. That’s because there are simply fewer people traveling, so businesses are more willing to offer discounts to fill up their rooms. You will often find great deals on accommodations, vacation rentals, and even Airbnbs during the off-season.
4. You’ll Get Better Deals
Since fewer people are traveling during the off-season, you will have the ability to make use of promotions such as discounts, lower prices, and coupons. This can help you save a ton of money on your trip.
5. You Can Avoid the Crowds
Traveling during the off-season is an excellent option if you’re not a fan of crowds. Since fewer people are traveling, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip without being surrounded by large groups of people.
6. You Can Experience a Destination in a Different Way
If you’ve always wanted to visit a specific destination but never had the chance, traveling during the off-season can allow you to experience it entirely differently. For example, visiting a beach destination during the off-season can be a great way to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the place.
7. You Can Get Away from It All
Traveling during the off-season is an excellent option if you’re looking for a way to escape the daily grind. This is your chance to unplug from technology and enjoy a slower pace of life.
Of course, there are some downsides to traveling during the off-season. For one, you may have to deal with some closures. Many businesses, especially in smaller towns and villages, close up shop during winter. And in some cases, bad weather can make travel difficult or even impossible.
But if you’re willing to deal with a few inconveniences, off-season travel can offer some great benefits. So next time you plan a trip, consider traveling during the shoulder or off-season for cheaper flights, accommodations, and even better weather.
Whether you’re looking to save money, avoid crowds, or experience a destination differently, there are plenty of reasons to travel during the off-season. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider traveling during the low season to make the most of every benefit that comes with it.
