What Is Shoulder Season? The Best Time to Travel for Fewer Crowds and Better Prices

Every destination has its high and low seasons, but shoulder season gives clients countless travel opportunities at a much lower cost. While certain times of year are traditionally seen as the best for vacationing, they don’t have to be the only times you travel. Exploring during shoulder season lets you experience the same incredible destinations without the crowds or the high prices.

What is Shoulder Season?

Shoulder season is the period just before or right after a destination’s peak season. This includes early fall, late spring, or those months just outside the major holidays. During this time, the crowds thin out, prices drop, and you can still enjoy the exact same tours and experiences that cost double or triple during peak season. These benefits to not only domestic locations, but international locations as well, allowing you to explore anywhere in the world without the inconvenience of busy traffic and crowded attractions. 

What are the Peak Seasons?

The busiest times for travel occur during winter and summer. It is the time of the year when schools are on holiday and seasonal breaks, and when those major holidays and festivities take place. Families like to take advantage of this time off, and they like to go where the weather is perfect. When those two factors are combined, it creates those “peak” travel times. The most expensive and crowded times are often families heading to tropical destinations in the winter to escape the cold, or traveling to Europe or Alaska in the summer to enjoy warm, sunny tours.

The Value of Shoulder Season

One of the biggest benefits of shoulder season is the savings. Holiday travel can be incredibly expensive, with flights and tours marked up to 2 to 3 times their normal price. By waiting just a couple of months, you will be able to travel for a fraction of the price, without giving up any of the experiences.  

Beyond cost, shoulder season often allows you to feel more relaxed on your trip. While the weather may be a bit unpredictable—sometimes cooler or warmer than during the height of summer or winter—it often comes with great perks: smaller crowds, more room to relax, and extra time to explore or unwind on your getaway.  

Why Shoulder Season Beats Holiday Travel 

During the busy summer and winter months, booking platforms and travel companies raise their prices to get more demand. Travel businesses know to take advantage of the increase in demand by raising their prices. Tour companies offer the same tours year-round, allowing you to experience the exact same destinations and activities as you would during peak seasons.  

While holiday travel is often marketed as the best time to go, in reality, it’s when you’ll pay the most. Shoulder season offers you nearly the same experience, with better pricing, fewer crowds, and more room to truly enjoy your trip.

What Types of Destinations Experience Shoulder Seasons?

The Greek Islands are a popular summer getaway, but visiting in April or May can be just as fulfilling. While the water may still be a bit cool, the weather is warm and sunny enough to enjoy the beaches. With fewer tourists around, you won’t have to compete for ferry tickets or restaurant reservations—and that peace and space make the experience even more special.

European cities are most enjoyable during shoulder season due to being packed in the summer. In September and October, tourists who travel in the shoulder season often get to see more of how locals live. Travelers also have the advantage of popular landmarks, as they typically sell out during peak travel seasons. It is also not too hot and not too cold to spend your time traversing around a new country.

Hawaii is another great destination to enjoy during shoulder season. The best time to visit is just after the New Year—January and February offer comfortable temperatures in the high 70s, perfect for relaxing on the beach or exploring the islands’ scenic trails. Their winter skies make for incredible stargazing, and it’s also when humpback whales migrate through Maui’s warm waters.

These are just a few of the many incredible destinations you can enjoy during shoulder season. Every location has its advantages, so make sure you have a clear idea of what kind of experience you’re looking for. Knowing where you want to go and what matters most to you helps create the perfect trip, tailored to your interests and budget.

Final Thoughts

As we make our way further into fall, it is currently the best time to take advantage of shoulder season deals. And if you’re not sure where or when to travel, your travel advisor can help you plan the perfect shoulder season getaway—matching your interests, ideal destinations, and budget to get you the perfect trip at the perfect deal.

Shoulder season is all about getting more out of your travel—more value, more space, and more freedom to explore. Instead of paying premium prices during the busiest times of the year, you can enjoy the same destinations and activities at a fraction of the cost, often with smaller crowds and a more relaxed pace.