Shoulder Season is the Best Season: Benefits of Traveling during the In-Between Months
For many travelers, peak season is the obvious time to visit a destination—summer in Europe, winter in the Caribbean, cherry blossom season in Japan. But there’s a sweet spot that often gets overlooked: shoulder season.
Shoulder season refers to the period between peak and off-season, when a destination is still enjoyable but with fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. These months vary by region, but they typically fall in the spring and fall or just before or after major holiday periods. Whether it’s visiting Italy in April or October instead of July, or planning a Caribbean getaway in May instead of January, shoulder season allows travelers to experience incredible destinations while avoiding crowds and saving money.
The Benefits of Shoulder Season Travel
Traveling during shoulder season comes with several advantages that can enhance your experience and make popular destinations more enjoyable.
Fewer Crowds, More Authentic Experiences. One of the biggest perks of shoulder season travel is avoiding the peak-season crowds. Popular landmarks, museums, and attractions that are packed during peak months become much more accessible. Imagine strolling through the streets of Santorini in September without battling cruise ship crowds or getting a prime viewing spot at the Louvre without waiting in lines.
More Affordable Flights and Accommodations. Because demand is lower than in peak season, airfare and hotel prices drop significantly. Resorts and boutique hotels often offer discounts, and availability is expanded for those complimentary room upgrades.
Comfortable Weather Without the Extremes. Shoulder season often brings mild, pleasant temperatures. Destinations like Italy, Japan, and Morocco are much more comfortable to explore in spring and fall than during their peak summer heatwaves. Likewise, ski destinations like Colorado, Lake Louise, or Santa Fe often have great late-season snow in March and April, without the holiday-season crowds.
Better Availability for Tours and Dining. During peak season, popular restaurants, guided tours, and activities book up quickly, sometimes months in advance. In shoulder season, there’s more flexibility and availability, allowing travelers to be spontaneous and secure coveted reservations at top spots without the stress of overbooked schedules.
Friendlier Locals and a More Relaxed Atmosphere. In popular destinations many locals rely on tourism for their livelihoods, and during peak season, they’re often stretched thin. In shoulder season, restaurants, hotels, and tour operators have more time to engage with travelers, leading to more personalized service and genuine interactions.
The Louvre, in and out of shoulder season.
Shoulder Season by Region
Shoulder season varies by destination, but it generally falls in the spring and fall months—after the high season crowds depart but before the low season (when weather may be less favorable). Below is a region-by-region guide to when and where to take advantage of shoulder season travel.
Asia: March–May and September–November
The Caribbean & Mexico: May-June and September-Early December
Europe: April-May and September-October.
South America: March–May and September–November
Southern & East Africa: April-June and September-October
United States: varies by region
Tips for Booking Shoulder Season Travel
Taking advantage of shoulder season travel requires a bit of planning to maximize savings and secure the best experiences. Here are some key tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Be Flexible with Your Dates. Prices and availability fluctuate, even within shoulder season. As possible, be flexible with your dates to ensure the most options and greatest values.
Understand Local Events & Holidays. Some destinations have local holidays, festivals, or school breaks that can create mini-peak seasons. For example, Japan’s Golden Week in the spring brings a surge in domestic travel. On the flip side, visiting during a lesser-known festival can enhance your experience—like the Día de los Muertos celebrations in Mexico (early November) or grape harvest festivals in wine regions.
Book Major Attractions & Activities in Advance. While crowds are smaller, some popular sites and activities still require advance reservations. High-demand experiences like Machu Picchu permits, safari lodges, and certain restaurants should be booked ahead.
Pack for Variable Weather. Shoulder season can bring transitional weather, so be prepared for fluctuating temperatures. Bring layers, a light rain jacket, and versatile footwear—especially in places where conditions can change quickly.
Key Takeaways
Whether you're exploring historic cities in Europe, embarking on an African safari, or unwinding on a tropical beach, shoulder season offers the perfect balance of value, comfort, and experience. With smaller crowds, better prices, and more opportunities for immersive travel, it's an ideal time to visit many of the world’s top destinations.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Let’s talk about how you can experience the world at the right time, for the best value, and with fewer crowds.
