5 Reasons To Travel During Shoulder Season

Love traveling but crowds and traffic stress you out? We recommend traveling during the shoulder season for a more relaxed experience.  

What is shoulder season? It’s that sweet spot between peak season and off-season, when the crowds are thinner and the prices are relatively lower. Unlike off season, attractions and places of interest still function during this time, and the weather is much more favorable too.  

The shoulder season varies by destination. For instance, if summer is peak season for some of USA’s national parks, the shoulder season would be during fall or the fag end of the summer, when there are fewer visitors. Peak winter here would be considered off-season due to closures, lack of amenities, and extreme weather. 

Here are five reasons why you should consider traveling during the shoulder season. 

1. It’s More Affordable 

Two words: cheaper airfares! Demand is typically low during the shoulder season, which means you get the benefit of more affordable air fares. According to an analysis by Nerdwallet, an American personal finance company, air fares are cheaper by 23 percent during shoulder season as compared to peak season. The key is to make sure you plan well, and get the timing right. We’re here to help with all of it! 

2. Skip The Crowds

Nobody likes getting caught up in traffic snarls or navigating endless queues while traveling – whether you want to catch a glimpse of your favorite painting in a gallery, or have a meal at a popular restaurant. And these scenarios are bound to happen when you travel during peak season. Travel in the shoulder season, on the other hand, allows you to relax, avoid the tourist rush and experience the destination at your own pace. 

3. Enjoy Good Weather 

A summer under the Tuscan sun sounds tempting. But with increasingly warmer summers and the tourist influx into Europe during the season, you’re better off traveling just at the onset of autumn, for example. September and October in much of Europe bring mild weather — perfect for river cruises as well as sightseeing during the day. 

4. Say Yes To Local Experiences 

One of the many perks of traveling during the shoulder season is the chance to truly immerse yourself in the destination, away from the tourist glare. With local fairs, festivals and markets outside the peak season, you’ll get a glimpse into everyday life and have a deeper understanding of local culture.  

5. Get easy access to attractions 

We can all agree it’s a grueling ordeal to get tickets to a bucket list attraction or a reservation at a popular eatery during peak season. Which is why we recommend traveling during the shoulder season. There’s less competition for spots, and as a bonus, you may also get much better value pricing during this time. So, you can be more spontaneous with your plans, while checking places off your list effortlessly!  

Plan your trip with YMT Vacations

Inspired to travel during the shoulder season? With our fully-guided tours, you get the added benefit of hassle-free travel, while also enjoying opportunities to forge lifelong connections with your fellow travelers! Call us today to speak to our travel consultants and book your next adventure with us!