low season travel

Travelling Without a Passport

Your Ultimate Off-Season Travel Calendar

Everybody loves a summer holiday, but more often than not, traveling during the peak tourist season can be a bit of a drag. Here’s our guide to your off-season gems to discover.

Summer may be the best time to travel when it comes to the weather, especially in Europe. However… the flights you want to book are overpriced, the places you want to stay at are more expensive, and the attractions you want to visit are flooded with tourists. In the off-season, you don’t have to worry about dealing with any of those downsides. Sure, you won’t get the best weather, but booking your trip in the low season comes with a bevy of benefits: cheaper airfare, wallet-friendly hotel rates, and fewer crowds.

If you’re ready to jump on the off-peak travel bandwagon, the only question left to answer is: where should I go in the off-season? That’s where this guide comes in! We’ve curated a list of some of the most popular travel destinations and their corresponding low-season periods so you can start planning your off-peak adventure for 2023 and beyond!

North America

South america.

See Also: Iceland Off-Season: Your Complete Guide

For the most part, Europe’s off-season runs between November and March .

Of course, temperatures and weather conditions will vary by region; if you visit in, say, December, you may have to contend with freezing temperatures and snow flurries in Northern Europe, while Mediterranean countries like Greece offer a fair amount of sunshine and relatively mild temperatures. 

No matter what destinations you choose to visit (aside from ski resorts), you’re guaranteed to find fewer crowds and bargain-worthy prices when traveling to Europe during the winter months.

Here are a few great cities, countries, and regions to choose from for off-season travel — those places where you’ll get the most bang for your buck and have a fantastic overall experience:

• All of the continent’s most popular and iconic cities (e.g., Venice, Paris, Rome, Barcelona, or Amsterdam)
• Finnish Lapland

See Also: What to do in Greece in December (Updated 2022)

Southeast Asia – June to October

As you can imagine, Southeast Asia plays host to several climates to match its incredibly diverse landscapes. Many travelers avoid the off-season in this region completely, but — with a little extra planning and preparation — it can actually be a fantastic time to travel here.

Just remember: the off-season months typically coincide with the rainy season. Monsoon rains usually occur between June and October in most parts of Southeast Asia, but weather patterns can vary drastically depending on the destination. 

During this time, your trip can be disrupted by torrential downpours, or you might get lucky with sunshine and short-lived periods of rain — it’s a chance you take traveling during the low season!

Here are the off-season months for some of Southeast Asia’s top hotspots:

• Bali – April to June
• Bangkok and Northern Thailand – May to October
• Thai Islands (Gulf of Thailand) – Gulf of Thailand October to December and the Andaman Sea June to October
• Vietnam – May to September
• Cambodia – July to September

Japan / China / Taiwan – November to March

The best time to escape the crowds in China , Japan , and Taiwan is during the winter months, as long as you’re not traveling to wintry destinations or ski towns like Harbin and Hokkaido. As these destinations are pretty far north, it can get quite cold, however, so for trips to Tokyo, Seoul, or Beijing, your best bet is to dress for the occasion and check the weather reports thoroughly.

India & Sri Lanka – May to August/September

India and Sri Lanka experience varied weather conditions, with certain regions (such as Goa, for example) being dominated by rainfall at any given time of the year. 

With the exception of tropical states like Florida and Hawaii, the low season in Canada and the USA falls between the winter months of November and March/April. 

Los Angeles, Vancouver, and other West Coast destinations offer milder temperatures throughout this season, while cities in the northeast (New York, Toronto, Boston) transform into real-life winter wonderlands.

Prices skyrocket during winter holidays and school holiday periods, so it’s best to avoid Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Spring Break if you don’t want to deal with inflated hotel rates and crowded attractions.

In Mexico and the Caribbean , the off-season period begins shortly after Easter and lasts until the middle of December, just before the holiday season is in full swing.

• United States – November to March
• Hawaii – April to early June and September to mid-December
• Canada – November to April
• Mexico – May to mid-December
• The Caribbean – May to mid-December

See Also: Low Season USA Travel: 11 Adventures in Your Backyard

Given its gargantuan size, it should come as no surprise that there’s a whole host of varying climates and microclimates occurring on this vast continent throughout the year.

Generally speaking, South America can be divided into two regions, the first being Chile , Argentina , Uruguay , and southern Brazil, where the low season falls during the chilly winter months. Please be aware that here, it’s winter from May to August! The other region is Colombia , Peru , Ecuador , and Bolivia , where the weather patterns are dictated by wet and dry seasons rather than significant temperature changes. In Brazil, for example, there may be temperatures as low as ° C 15.8 / ° F 60.4 in Foz do Iguaçu, in the south in July, while Salvador, Bahia up north will still have approx. ° C 23.7 / ° F 74.7 degrees.

If you don’t mind packing a few extra layers and waterproof gear, you’ll love traveling outside of peak season here.

• Colombia / Peru / Ecuador / Bolivia – December to March
• Mach u Picchu – October to February (The Inca Trail closes every February for essential maintenance.)
• The Galapagos Islands – May to June and September and October
• Brazil – May to September
• Chile and Argentina (excluding Patagonia) – June to August

In many African destinations (especially safari hotspots), low-season travel comes with loads of perks: the Kalahari Desert offers fantastic game viewing during the off-season; the low season in Kenya means better deals and cheaper international airfare; and Tanzania’s birthing period falls during the off-peak months, so you’re more likely to see lion cubs and other baby animals.

Plus, you’ll get great value for money, you won’t have to compete for space at wildlife sightings, and the rainy season brings lush landscapes — which makes for excellent photo opportunities. 

It may be wetter during the low season, but if you can bear a bit of rain, there are a number of fantastic benefits that come with off-peak travel on this continent.

North Africa

• Morocco – November to February
• Egypt – June to August

Central/East Africa

• Kenya & Tanzania – March to June and October to December
• Ugand a – April and May
• Rwanda – April, May, and November

Southern Africa

• South Africa – April to September
• Namibia & Botswana – December to April 
• Moz ambique – March to June

Australia – June to August

Most people want to experience summer Down Under, but visiting during Australia’s winter (June to August) will save you cash on everything from your airfare to tours and bucket list activities.

And, since the weather is still pleasant and warm in many places around the country, choosing to travel during the off-season comes with some serious advantages.

New Zealand – June to August

The off-peak winter season is similar in New Zealand : you’ll find far fewer crowds at all the popular tourist spots (besides the ski resorts dotted around the country, of course).

Prices go down; hotel rates drop, and, in some destinations, you might feel as though you have the whole place to yourself.

Things to consider when booking an off-season holiday

Not every destination is suited to off-season travel; you definitely don’t want to be trekking in the Himalayas in a foot of snow or sweltering in Northern Australia in 45-degree heat. 

You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons and do some additional research before you travel to any particular destination during the low season. Weather, seasonal closures, and safety are three of the main things to keep in mind while you’re planning your trip.

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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Low Season Travel Guide | Dates for Low Season In Asia, Europe, & More

Traveling during low season is cheaper and less crowded for the most part. Here's a guide or navigating the low season for the most popular travel destinations.

Low season travel is becoming one of the key ways for backpackers to travel long term on a budget. So in this guide we're breaking down what low season is, what it means, how to navigate low season in certain countries, and everything else you need to know about low season travel.

What Is Low Season?

Low season is typically when the weather conditions for a country/destination are less favorable to the majority of tourists that want to visit. Think too cold, too hot, too rainy, or less than ideal conditions for the core activity of the trip - this is when you'll find the least amount of tourists in a particular place.

Why Should I Travel During Low Season?

Fewer tourists and travelers mean that the supply for flights, accommodation, tours and more are really high, but demand is really low - so prices are lower to encourage people to come. A hostel or airline is losing money if they don't fill beds or seats, this is where you come in with your shoestring budget and a smile on your face 😊

Low season doesn't have all the perks of high season but a lot of the time, especially for the budget traveler, the perks outweigh the downsides.

When Is Low Season?

Low season depends on the country and isn't nessarily a summer vs winter thing. In some places summer is low season as it's too hot. In other places it's in between calendar seasons as that's when a particular mountain is able to be climbed. So you need to check the destination to find when it's low season and when it's high season - your goals for the travel may vary depending on what your trip entails.

In the next section we're going to go over some of the most popular destinations for travel , and talk about the high season, and low season months. We're going to cover:

• What the weather will be like.
• How crowded it will be.
• When some of the holidays or festivals will take place.
• Other details that you should know.

This isn't a definitive list, but it'll cover the basics and what to watch out for. Remember that:

Low Season = lower prices High Season = higher prices

That being said, sometimes you want to go during the high season for multiple reasons. Maybe there's a festival you want to go to, maybe there's a mountain you want to climb - in any case, here's the list.

Note: This list is being updated regularly, we don't have every country on there, and there are definitely a few gaps but you should be able to get an idea with what we've got.

Popular Destinations & Contents

Australia & new zealand.

• Asia 2.1. Hong Kong 2.2. Japan 2.3. South Korea 2.4. Taiwan
• South America 4.1. Brazil, Chile & Argentina 4.2. Peru & Ecuador
• Southeast Asia 5.1. Cambodia 5.2. Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore 5.3. Vietnam

You're most likely living in the Northern Hemisphere so it's flipped seasons if you're going down to Australia or New Zealand - prepare for some crazy heat too in the summer months.

Australia is big so there's going to be some differences in climates, and tourism depending on where you go, but we'll cover it here so don't worry.

🌞 High | Hot Season (December through February) - It's not surprising that summer is the High Season in a country where most of the towns and cities are coastal.

For the east coast of Australia, the more north you go, the hotter it gets. So the state of Queensland is where you'll get the most sunshine and heat. But don't worry, there are plenty of beach towns everywhere you go. In fact, the season will start early here from October to March, you'll get travelers swimming, snorkeling, and hiking with some partying in the mix as well.

In places like Melbourne, Victoria - you'll get 4 seasons in a day in any given season. It could be sweltering hot one day and freezing the next. Quite sporadic but high season is high season - you'll see a lot of tourists, especially around Christmas and New Years.

😎 High | Warm Season (September through November) - The spring is also quite popular in Australia as you'll get tourists who can't stand how hot it gets in the summer. Especially on the east and west coasts. Gold Coast and above, and Perth and above - these are perfect temperatures for travelers. The crowds get started in the spring.

❄️ Low Season (March through August) - The water is usually less appealing, the weather is cool and can get quite cold depending on how south you are, and the travelers are limited to those who are having a year off working in Australia or New Zealand.

But you'll find some fantastic Skiing in June and July, in New Zealand. You'll always have days where the beach looks great and the temperature is OK for a dip. Prices for flights to Australia and New Zealand are cheaper during these months as well.

Mostly consistent 4 season weather, though the coastal areas tend to get more sub-tropical climates and this affects high and low seasons throughout some of the regions.

• 🎆 High Season (October through February) - Starting with hot weather and cooling down throughout these months is the only time Hong Kong is cool. Add holidays to the mix and this period becomes very busy and expensive.
• 🌧️ Low Season (May through September) - Rain, Storms, Typhoons, Heat and Humidity - These months really show you Hong Kong's sub-tropical weather. It's mild most of the time and usually isn't a concern, other than the humidity and rain.
• 🌸 High | Cherry Blossom Season (March through May) - Spring is the perfect warmer weather in Japan, with April being peak season as the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom throughout the country. This is when everything is extra expensive.
• 🗻 High | Climbing and Summer Season (June through September) - The weather's much warmer now. Mt. Fuji opens for climbing in July and is open through to mid September - prices are stable but it can get quite touristy.
• 🍁 Low | Autumn (Late October through  December) - This avoids the spring and summer, along with cherry blossoms and climbing seasons. It also avoids the New Years holidays and ski season that'll peak in winter. It's the perfect cool temperature and flights/accommodation are lower. The later in Autumn you go the better, as Autumn foliage can attract a lot of tourists too.

South Korea

• 😎 High Season (June through August) - Summer time with high levels of tourist activity - it's also hot.
• ✌ Low Season (April through May, September through October) - Late Spring and Early Autumn are the perfect times where tourists tend to be in smaller numbers, flights and accommodation are cheaper.
• 😎 High Season (July through August) - Summer time with price increases for accommodation and other expenses - more crowds.
• ✌ Low Season (November through March) - Varies from warmer ~25 C (South) to colder (North) ~10 C averaging out country wide around 18-19 C. Fewer tourists, but around New Years time, prices may go up for a few weeks.
• ☯️ Shoulder Seasons (Everything in between) - Still some good discounts available on accommodation, though watch out around March-May as it may resemble high season because of Chinese tour groups and tourists.

Europe has many countries that are land locked, coastal, cross over multiple climates, and are miles apart both latitudinal and longitudinal. We'll split Europe up into certain areas for specifics but the high and low seasons are pretty consistent across each region. Here're some guides on Europe.

For Europe, these are the general seasons.

😎 High Season (Late June to Mid September) - Summer is the high season in most of Europe. Tour groups, enormous music festivals, sailing, swimming, hiking, holidays - it's all there.

But certain areas take longer to warm up than others, and some get warmer more quickly. So depending on where you are, you can move the months around a little but the middle will always be busy, and expensive.

• In Southern European countries like Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia etc. It starts getting warm in late spring around May. As the weather gets warmer the tourists start coming in.
• In the Baltic's and Scandinavia, Summer is still high season with July being the busiest. It's considered the hottest time with an average of 20 degrees Celsius which is hilarious for anyone living in hotter climates. Going here in may, like Southern Europe would definitely be considered low season.

Other countries in Central and Eastern Europe are consistent with the usual Summer High Season traffic, and prices.

❄️ Low Season (November through March) - Winter is the low season in Europe with the exception of hot spots for Skiing and winter sports - think parts of Switzerland and France , and other Central European countries, January to March. And the holiday season in late December.

Besides those specific activities, you won't see a lot of tourists during the winter. Accommodation, transport, and attractions are cheaper, but you'll need to layer up to deal with the cold.

☯️ Shoulder Seasons (April to Mid June, September through October) - Cool weather, but it can be considered cold depending on where you are and the day, the prices aren't at a peak and you'll be picking up cheap accommodation and transport everywhere you go.

These in-between seasons are some of the best times to be traveling Europe on a budget as you get best of both worlds. It's not extreme winter weather, but it's not peak tourist season either.

• Southern Europe is where you'll get some nicer weather during the shoulder seasons. So going early to Italy, Spain etc. might be a winning strategy.

South America

The high and low seasons in South America greatly depend on where in South America you're traveling. The closer you are to the equator the hotter it'll be, but that being said, the summer will be the hottest and wettest season in South America.

Brazil, Chile & Argentina

• 😎 High Season (November to Mid March) - The Summer months attract the most visitors, and it'll be the hottest it'll usually get. There will be plenty o travelers looking to go hiking, exploring the national parks, and going to world renowned celebrations in Brazil. Brazil and Argentina will usually be hot and humid, excluding Patagonia which will be dry.
• ☯️ Shoulder Seasons (Mid March to Early June, September through October) - This corresponds to the spring and autumn months, and is usually cooler, less touristy and you'll get a cheaper experience. It's the best time to go as a budget traveler.
• 🌧️ Low | Wet Season (June through August) - These are the winter months in Chile, ski resorts will be open, the salt flats will also be bearable as the heat will have dissipated. There will be less tourists and cheaper prices, barring the skiing hot spots. Depending on the region you're in, if it's not for skiing i.e. no snow, you'll get some rain, but it's more the day time temperatures going down to 13 C that pushes away the masses. Note that Brazil may see spikes in accommodation prices as the weather is less humid and tourists do come during this season.

Peru & Ecuador

• 😎 High | Dry Season (May through September) - The peak season in Peru and Ecuador corresponds to the Dry Season, or their summer. You'll get hot temperatures but less rain than other parts of the continent. These months also correspond to the holidays of tourists from places like the US or Europe so it can definitely get crowded.
• 🌧️ Low | Wet Season (October through April) - Barring Christmas and New years times, accommodation and flights are much cheaper. But expect rain and humidity during these months, the mosquito's will be out as well, so make sure you spray up.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia has a combination of heavy rainfall and monsoon seasons, coupled with hot seasons where the heat can get quite high. But regardless of the season, it's consistently warm We've written quite a few articles on Southeast Asia.

• 😎 High | Dry Season (November through March) - The hottest it'll get is in April and it'll work its way there from a cool 20 C from November to January, picking up the pace until it's really hot around March/April - peak tourism is around this time.
• 🌧️ Low | Wet Season (May through September) - Day time temperatures are around 25-27 C and it rains almost everyday but there are no monsoons or typhoons as the western border isn't coastal. But it's not constant, it rains during the day for a few hours much like other SE Asian countries, and then it tapers off. Well worth it for the cheaper travel.

Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore

• 😎 High | Cool Season (October to March) - This is the most popular time as it's cooler than usual but not so hot.
• 🔥 Low | Hot Season (March to June) - This is when it starts getting quite humid, but it's still a great option if you're going on an island/beach style trip.
• 🌊 Low | Monsoon Season (June to October) - This is when it rains for 1-3 hours in buckets every day, but then goes back to normal clear/cloudy skies. Avoid the middle of it, and spend more time in central and northern Thailand, or away from the coast in Malaysia - and you should avoid it.
• 😎 High | Cool Season (March to May, September to November) - These periods are spring and autumn, they're cooler and have holidays scattered through them (April/May) so it's busy on both the local and tourist front.
• 🎆 Low | Local Summer Holidays (July to August) - This is low season in terms of tourists because it's quite hot, but it can get crowded with locals as it's their summer holidays -that being said, this could be a great thing in terms of local prices and a cultural experience.
• ⛄ Low | Winter (December to February) - Don't fret, Vietnam winter won't be a snowy one and depending on where you're from, you probably won't feel cold. North Vietnam is 10-15 Celsius and central to south is around 20-30. Perfect temperatures but fewer tourists.

This article will be updated with more countries and regions regularly.

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50 off-season vacation ideas.

Times you should visit to enjoy off-peak rates, dwindling crowds and shorter lines at top attractions.

(Getty Images) |

Travel during the shoulder seasons for thinner crowds and tempting prices.

If you don't want to contend with peak-season crowds – and prices – traveling to popular destinations in the fall and spring offers a short window to snap up enticing deals and take advantage of fewer tourists and still-pleasant temperatures. In the off-season, you can also find greater availability at popular restaurants and attractions, along with more authentic experiences at well-trodden tourist destinations. Sure, you may need to pack additional layers, but you'll be rewarded with immersive local experiences and discounted hotel and flight rates. With that in mind, we pinpointed top shoulder-season getaway ideas – from high-trafficked hot spots to off-the-beaten-track locales – that offer plenty of allures for visiting at underrated times.

Savannah, Georgia

While spring lures visitors to Savannah with its arts and music festivals and colorful azaleas across its Historic District, fall is a best-kept secret. From September to November, temperatures settle into the comfortable low 70s and mid-80s, the summer crowds have dwindled and hotel pricing dips. Plus, there are a variety of festivals worth checking out, including the Savannah Jazz Fest in September, the Savannah Film Festival at the end of October and the Savannah Food & Wine Festival in November. For a memorable experience, time your visit around Halloween, when you can delight in spine-tingling frights and delights such as ghost tours and moss-covered strolls through Bonaventure Cemetery.

Autumn in the Windy City brings sunny days, with daily highs hitting the 60s and 70s in September and October – a perfect window between the crowds of summer and the frigid temperatures of winter. Plus, fall is an ideal time to observe Chi-Town's diverse outdoor festivals and cultural and architectural treasures at The Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago. Aside from admiring the area's world-recognized skyscrapers, museums and shops along the Magnificent Mile, you can also attend a variety of seasonal events, including Oktoberfest Chicago and the Chicago Jazz Festival in September. Best of all, hotel room rates tend to drop at this time of year.

Marrakech, Morocco

Fall is the perfect time to visit Marrakech, ushering in a break from the scorching triple-digit temperatures of summer, dispersed tourists and enticing airfares and hotel deals. In October and November, daily highs reach the low to high 70s, allowing for ideal conditions for checking out the city's kaleidoscope of colors, the eclectic sights, sounds and scents in Medina of Marrakech and its centerpiece, the Djemaa el Fna. You'll want to carve out some time to visit the area's renowned souks, fashionable cafes and world-renowned Moroccon textiles, rugs and architecture at La Mamounia. When you need a break from taking in the city's sights, retreat to Majorelle Garden.

San Francisco

Autumn is a prime time to visit the City by the Bay, when the weather is consistently warm and temperatures hover in the low 70s. While you'll want to pack a few extra layers to arm yourself against chilly breezes along the water, you can catch a variety of exciting outdoor festivals and seasonal events, including the Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival at Ghirardelli Square in September and the Castro Street Fair in October. Even better, you'll be battling fewer tourists at can't-miss attractions, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the Ferry Building Marketplace. For the best rates, visit from December to April, when you can enjoy reduced temperatures and hotel prices.

With the declining value of the pound following Brexit, there are still great deals to be had across the U.K., including London, says Alex Howard, managing editor of travel publisher Lonely Planet. If you don't mind wearing a few extra layers to guard against the chilly temperatures in the 40s and 50s, mid-September through November ushers in an ideal time to check out vibrant cultural events, admire colorful fall foliage and seize upon lower airfare and hotel rates. Don't skip the annual Totally Thames Festival throughout September, which includes exhibitions, concerts, parties and free events, or the EFG London Jazz Festival in November. And of course, don't skip checking out lively outdoor stalls at Borough Market or Notting Hill.

Buenos Aires

While Buenos Aires draws those craving a sunny getaway in winter, from September to November (spring in Argentina), you'll be rewarded with comfortable temperatures in the 60s and low 80s and the chance to see spectacular lilac jacaranda trees blooming across the city. Spring is prime time for taking in the blooming flowers at the Rose Garden Walk and scoring reasonable hotel rates. Best of all, you can also dodge the high-season tourist crowds of December to February, allowing for better conditions for catching street-side salsa performances and perusing vibrant barrios (districts) such as La Boca and San Telmo without battling swarms of visitors.

Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is a study in contrasts, with sleek skyscrapers and contemporary art exhibitions juxtaposed against treasured temples and historical gems at the National Palace Museum. While the official off-season kicks off in June, plan a trip from September to November for dry conditions, discounted hotel room rates and temperatures lingering around 70 and 80 degrees. In the brief shoulder-season window, you can comfortably explore Taipei's eclectic night markets, visit the Longshan Temple and pop into cutting-edge galleries. And of course you can't miss enjoying the city's incredible culinary specialties – including steamed soup dumplings and savory noodle bowls – without heavy tourist crowds at top foodie institutions like Din Tai Fung.

September to November is the perfect time to visit Istanbul, when the summer crowds have dispersed and daytime temperatures linger in the high 50s and 70s, creating perfect walking conditions. You can soak in must-see attractions and landmarks, including the Grand Bazaar, the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, and even secure lower airfares and hotel rates. Plus, fall is rife with festivals. You won't want to miss the Istanbul Biennial, an art exhibition which takes place every two years in September. Another must: Picking up ornate textiles, a rug or another keepsake from one of the city's colorful and chaotic bazaars.

Charleston, South Carolina

With its antebellum architecture, innovative low country cuisine and Spanish moss-blanketed trees, Charleston lures foodies, history buffs and the like. Plan a trip from September to November to enjoy perfect temperatures in the high 70s (and beat summer's uncomfortable humidity), and catch a variety of seasonal events. In September, the Greater Charleston Lowcountry Jazz Festival is not to be missed. And thanks to pleasant weather conditions, autumn is an excellent time to check out the city's beautiful gardens, like the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, or tag along organized walking tours. If securing reduced rates is a top priority, visit in winter, when temperatures dip into the 40s and 60s, and there are fewer tourists crowding into top hotels.

Tulum, Mexico

Often overshadowed by popular Mexico hot spots (think: Cozumel, Cancún), Tulum lures visitors with authentic cuisine, superlative beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. You can check out ancient Mayan ruins, stay at eco-friendly retreats, strike a yoga pose along the beach and even dine at rising farm-to-table institutions. While the rainiest conditions last from June to October, if you don't mind getting a little wet, from October to December you can take advantage of discounted room rates and temperatures hovering in the comfortable 70s and 80s. Best of all, other serenity-seekers haven't yet swarmed to Tulum to escape the winter doldrums during the peak season: January to March.

Lima , Peru's vibrant capital and gateway to Machu Picchu, attracts visitors with its diverse culinary offerings, modern art scenes and versatile landscapes – from the lush Amazon to the snow-covered Andes to the dramatic sea views along the Pacific. Because Lima is in the Southern Hemisphere, you can expect balmy temperatures and the wettest conditions in summer (December to May) and dry and cooler temperatures in winter (June to November). October, which falls at the end of the dry season, is an especially enticing time to visit, with dispersed crowds and festive events, including the annual Lord of Miracles celebration. At the end of October, you can also catch Mistura, a food festival that honors Peruvian chefs and cuisine.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

When it comes to enchanting Italian destinations, the Amalfi Coast, with its spectacular beaches, dreamy seaside towns and striking backdrops, is hard to match. And around mid-September, the summer tourists have come and gone and temperatures hover in the 60s and 80s through the end of October. Even better, you can snap up lower airfares and reasonable hotel rates thanks to lower demand at this time of year, especially in October. Don't skip taking in sweeping cliff and sea views, from Ravello's Villa in Rufolo to the ornate sculptures and gardens at Villa Cimbrone. Another must: soaking in Positano's colorful cliff-side villas, captivating beaches, famous ceramics and charming seaside restaurants.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena attracts visitors in winter with its romantic charm, from its enchanting courtyard cafes to its idyllic colonial mansions to its surreal backdrops renowned from Gabriel García Márquez's legendary "Love in the Time of Cholera." While October is an unpopular time to visit – in the height of the rainy season – those who don't detest light showers and are willing to make the pilgrimage are rewarded with warm temperatures, fewer crowds and a more authentic experience as they embrace the area's rich colonial treasures, street art and traditional cuisine – ceviche and arepas (savory corn dough) are a must. Exploring the Old City – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is another can't-miss activity, along with exploring vibrant neighborhoods like Getsemaní.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown , with its daredevil personality and adrenaline-pumping activities (bungee jumping, mountain biking or paragliding, anyone?) attracts thrill-seekers throughout the year, but in October and November – spring in the Southern Hemisphere – you can enjoy fewer crowds and colorful flowers, along with the snow-covered Southern Alps. If conditions allow, enjoy hiking along the legendary Routeburn and Milford tracks. When you need a break from all the activity, grab a bite at Fergburger or Botswana Butchery, or enjoy strolling through the lovely Queenstown Gardens. If you love wine, sample distinguished pinot noir varieties or nearby Gibbston Valley, which is known for its vineyards and wineries.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Picture avant-garde art, vibrant street markets, Gothic cathedrals and graceful adobe buildings. These are just a few of Santa Fe's charms. In autumn, you can enjoy a break from blazing summer temperatures, with daily highs in the 60s and 70s through October. Plus, there are a variety of festivals jockeying for your attention, from the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta at the tail end of September to the nearby Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October. And no trip to Santa Fe is complete without strolling into the eclectic galleries along legendary Canyon Road or perusing the stands at the vibrant Santa Fe Farmers Market.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio, along with a variety of destinations across South America, is a great winter escape for those in the Northern Hemisphere, Howard says. In November (spring in Rio), you can still stake an umbrella in the sand and people-watch at Copacabana Beach thanks to average temperatures in the comfortable 70s and low 80s. Along with the chance to beat frosty temperatures and seasonal doldrums, you can score discounted hotel room rates and enjoy fewer crowds at must-see attractions, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, the lush botanical gardens at Jardim Botânico and Sugarloaf Mountain, as well as vibrant neighborhoods such as Lapa and Santa Teresa.

Byron Bay, Australia

With its sun-washed shores, laid-back surf culture and bohemian vibes, Byron Bay has long attracted wave-riders and budget-minded globetrotters. And the end of January and February, following the summer rush in the the Southern Hemisphere, is an ideal time to escape the fray (and backpacking college students) and score a deal on accommodations. When you're not trying your hand at surfing or grabbing a bite at Folk or Top Shop, two Byron Bay culinary institutions, check out must-see attractions, such as the Byron Bay Lighthouse and Tallow Beach.

(Getty Images | Universal Images Group)

Richmond, Virginia

Virginia's historic capital city has been upping the cool factor in recent years with a burgeoning craft beer and culinary scene and forward-leaning art galleries. And fall marks an appealing time to visit if you love catching the changing leaves. Plan a road trip to take in postcard-perfect vistas on the nearby Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, where you can admire a mosaic of gold, amber and crimson shades dappling sassafras trees and sumacs. Back in Richmond, you can delight in seasonal events like the Richmond Folk Festival in October, before admiring the city's wealth of Civil War sites, grabbing a beer at Hardywood Park brewery or relaxing at the design-centric Quirk Hotel.

Getty Images | iStockphoto

Napa Valley, California

As harvest season ends in California wine country in late October, you can take advantage of dispersed crowds, discounted pricing at high-end accommodations and spectacular fall foliage with exciting seasonal events across Napa and Sonoma. Pick up a set of wheels, and explore Napa's foliage-covered vineyards and wineries from behind two handlebars on the Napa Valley Vine Trail. In early November, you can even catch the Napa Valley Film Festival, which includes screenings for more than 100 independent films coupled with wine tastings and other experiences. And while the weather drops to the chilly 30s and 50s in November, you can warm up with an indulgent spa treatment and memorable meals at an award-winning restaurants.

New Orleans

The Crescent City is a cultural melting pot, with African, French, American and Spanish influences and a treasure trove of mystic charms, historical landmarks and blues bars. While spring entices visitors with Mardi Gras, arrive in fall and you'll rub shoulders with fewer tourists, beat the blazing summer heat and increase your odds of netting discounted lodging rates. In October, don’t miss the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival. Another excellent off-peak time to go is December, thanks to plenty of seasonal events, "including caroling at Jackson Square, beautiful decorations and reveillon dinner – meals based on those that would have been served when NOLA was still a French colony," says Pauline Frommer, editorial director of Frommer's guidebooks and Frommers.com.

Bali, Indonesia

With its staggered pagodas, ancient temples and pristine beaches, Bali offers a year-round escape-it-all appeal for serenity-seekers. But for a short window in September and October, you can enjoy a dip in crowds and prices following the seasonal rush in July and August. Plus, the dry season – from April to October – translates to ideal conditions for exploring the Indonesian island's tucked-away shrines, iconic temples, such as the Pura Luhur Uluwatu, Tirta Empul and Tanah Lot, and admiring Sumatran elephants at Elephant Safari Park in Kuta. For more adventure, strap on a pair of hiking boots and explore Bali's lush Jatiluwih rice terraces.

Otherworldly landscapes, magnificent glaciers, geothermal pools and other natural splendors such as the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle's Golden Falls all add to Iceland's allure. In autumn, you can embrace fewer crowds and even have the chance to catch the northern lights on clear nights. And while Iceland has grown in popularity and earned a firm place on every worldly traveler's map, there are still plenty of low-cost and convenient flights and budget-friendly accommodation options at this time of year, along with seasonal festivals. Just make sure to pack some layers; temperatures linger in the mid-30s and low 50s in September and October.

Botswana, Africa

If you're dreaming of a big-game safari, fall is the perfect time to visit Botswana. While you'll run the risk of facing scorching 90-degree temperatures in the dry season – October to February – at the start of the season you can catch sight of baby animals and enjoy reduced rates at high-end lodges. If your heart is set on catching sight of magnificent animals – think: lions, zebras, giraffes and elephants – the Okavango Delta's flood plains features a high wildlife population and is the place to go. Consider visiting Makgadikgadi Pans National Park for prime viewing. Mashatu Game Reserve and Chobe National Park are other coveted viewing areas.

Santa Barbara, California

For an outside-the-box wine trip, consider hitting Santa Barbara's still-undiscovered vineyard trail in Los Alamos (off legendary U.S. Route 101) in early spring. Though you may encounter a few showers, you can secure affordable lodging rates. Plus, daytime temperatures in Santa Barbara hit the 60s from March to May, yielding ideal conditions for checking out must-see attractions such as the botanical gardens and the Santa Barbara Zoo. In spring, you can also catch a variety of seasonal events, including the Santa Barbara International Orchid Festival in March and the Santa Barbara Vintners Spring Weekend & Festival in April. Even better, you'll dodge the heavy traffic of the July and August, when the area sees an influx of tourists.

In fall, the Hawaiian Islands see a drop in tourists, yet the weather is consistently pleasant year-round, Frommer says. With the end of whale-watching season and the kids back in school, "often there will be good deals on hotels and/or rentals in the fall, and better deals than usual on airfares," she says. Her secret for securing bargain-friendly plane tickets is flexibility. "Sometimes, flying through a West Coast gateway you might not have considered, like Seattle or Portland, can yield savings," she explains. Howard also highlights Hawaii as an enticing fall getaway thanks to the short but sweet window before winter, when you can snap up flight deals.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Autumn ushers in the perfect time for a Colorado getaway – before the powder hounds have arrived and temperatures are still in the 60- to 70-degree range at the start of the season. In September, you can catch golden aspens. And if you're craving adventure, the Hanging Lake Trail in nearby Glenwood Canyon is an ideal place to soak in the scenery. After a thrilling day outdoors, soothe any muscle aches in the area's renowned mineral hot springs. And at this time of year, unlike the popular peak winter season, you're likely to land discounted hotel room rates, and you can partake in a variety of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, biking and fly-fishing.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

With red-and-orange tiled roofs, storied landmarks and aquamarine waters, this seaside city on the Dalmatian Coast swarms with cruise-goers, "Game of Thrones" fans and sun-seekers from May to August, translating to high price tags and heavy crowds. Visit in September or October, after the crowds have dispersed, when it's easier to clinch reasonable hotel rates following the summer's peak tourism season. Fall is also a prime time for embracing Croatia's grape and olive harvest season and exploring top areas, such as Lokrum and the nearby island of Korčula .

Montreal melds its Canadian splendor with European charm complete with lovely French bistros, storybook 18th-century buildings in the Vieux-Montréal and the vibrant Jean-Talon Market. Late September to November, as the leaves start to change color and the air turns crisp, marks an ideal time to visit. And while temperatures drop into 20s by November, you'll find greater room availability and excellent accommodation deals at this time of year. When you need a break from chillier temperatures, explore the shops and museums in the Underground City. And if you love leaf peeping, you'll also want to check out the foliage at Mount Royal Park, where smoldering maples and elms blanket the area in bold crimson shades.

When frosty November temperatures tempt you to steal away to a sunny locale, consider Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula , the cool, laid-back surf destination along the northwest coast with an 80-mile shoreline flanked by charming towns and trendy hotels and eateries. Temperatures stay in the 60s and 70s in November – the end of the rainy season, but if you arrive at this time of year, you'll beat the rush of tourists that swarm the area in December to enjoy wildlife-spotting and sunbathing during the dry season.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

If you didn't plan a summer getaway to this coastal retreat – just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod – you can still check out charming cobblestone streets, striking dunes and superlative sea views during the sweet shoulder season from September to October. During this brief window following the height of the peak summer tourism season, crowds and hotel prices dwindle, but the island's top attractions and restaurants remain open. The island also hosts a variety of festive seasonal events at this time of year, including the Nantucket Arts Festival and Cranberry Festival in October. Just remember to pack a jacket, as temperatures can dip into the 40s by the end of October.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Powder hounds looking to take advantage of alpine scenery and slopes without steep price tags should set their sights on Zermatt. In spring, you can nab reduced rates at a chalet or apartment rental, take in jaw-dropping views of the legendary Matterhorn, enjoy spring hikes and try your hand at skiing and snowboarding. Another draw for a Swiss Alps vacation: While Switzerland is known for its expensive prices, a variety of cost-effective bed-and-breakfasts and budget-priced rentals have popped up in recent years, making Zermatt in reach for the bargain-hunter.

Palm Springs, California

If you time your visit right to this Southern California desert escape, you'll circumvent the Coachella festival-goers (read: sky-high room rates) of spring and dodge blazing triple-digit temperatures of summer. Arrive in October, November or December – before sun-seekers have descended upon the desert beginning in April – and you'll find temperatures in the pleasant 60s to 80s, reasonable room rates and a variety of lively festivals. In November, check out the Props & Hops Craft Beer Festival, and in December take in a dazzling light display at the annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade. If you're craving outdoor activity, check out nearby Joshua Tree National Park or Indian Canyons.

While most tourists flock to Tokyo when a canopy of pink cherry blossoms blanket the city in late March or early April, arrive from September to November to enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from the 40s to 70s and rub elbows with fewer crowds at top attractions. Plus, you'll find vibrant autumn foliage brightening the city streets. For optimal leaf chasing, check out the Rikugien Garden, Showa Kinen Park and Ueno Park. And other must-see attractions worth exploring include Tsukiji Fish Market, the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.

(Getty Images). |

Skip visiting Amsterdam during the peak tulip-viewing and summer season (April to September), and you'll be rewarded with advantageous room rates, extra breathing room at must-see attractions and dazzling fall foliage along the city's charming canals and green spaces. Another perk for culture lovers: Museum Night in November affords the chance to explore world-renowned collections after dark and includes a host of special workshops and tours. Just make sure to stay prepared by packing extra layers, as temperatures can shift from the high 30s to the mid-50s in October and November. If you don't mind frosty temperatures, consider visiting in winter to optimize savings.

The Danish capital draws travelers year-round with world-renowned Michelin-starred dining institutions, distinguished palaces and an idyllic harbor filled with graceful wooden ships and brightly painted homes. But if you opt to skip the tourist-heavy summer season and arrive earlier in March, when temperatures hover around a frosty 30- to 40-degree range, you'll discover fewer crowds and enticing hotel and airfare prices. During your visit, don't miss strolling along Strøget, a lively pedestrian-only thoroughfare filled with an eclectic mix of boutiques and high-end brand shops, touring the National Museum of Denmark or admiring the crown jewels and other treasures on display at Rosenborg Castle.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cosmopolitan, culture-filled and surrounded by gorgeous mountainous and beach backdrops, Cape Town has it all. Arrive in fall (April to June in Cape Town), to check out the wine harvest at nearby vineyards like Constantia. Aside from autumnal shades and excellent wine, you can enjoy discounted off-season room rates dropping in advance of the low season starting in mid-June. Temperatures linger in the 60s and 70s, yielding excellent conditions for sightseeing can't-miss attractions such as Robben Island, Boulders Beach and Table Mountain. Other highlights include hiking in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and enjoying wine at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Iguazú Falls, Brazil and Argentina

Forget Niagara Falls. These 275 waterfalls on the Brazil-Argentina border are absolutely awe-inspiring. But in order to take in the cascading falls in their prime, you'll want to plan a trip during the rainy season (December to February). During the height of tourism season, the gushing water tends to dwindle, so you'll want to time your visit strategically. The only caveat with the wetter months, of course, are rainy conditions, so pack accordingly. You'll find excellent vantage points on both the Brazilian and Argentinean sides of the falls. From Rio, head to Foz do Iguaçu, which is northwest of the falls and offers an easy launching pad to Iguaçu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Whistler, British Columbia

With its snow-covered peaks, scenic hiking trails and supreme skiing terrain, Whistler appeals to outdoorsy types, especially those looking to shred powder on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. December to February attracts avid skiers (and nonskiers craving other cold-weather pastimes on a snowy getaway) to Whistler's storybook setting. But you can still take advantage of fresh powder through early May, with the added bonus of fewer crowds on the slopes. Arrive in spring, and you can also catch the World Ski & Snowboard Festival, which includes free outdoor concerts, along with pro competitions and even an art exhibition. What's more, you can often land discounted accommodation prices at this less popular time of year.

Lisbon, Portugal

While you can score bargain-friendly rates on accommodations in winter, arrive after the crowds have left in March to enjoy pleasant temperatures lingering in the 60s and 70s paired with attractive accommodation deals. Carve out some time for taking in sweeping views from Alfama, exploring the area's fairy tale-esque castles of Sintra and admiring the intricate ceramic tiles on display at the National Tile Museum. Other enticements include vibrant festivals, like Lisbon Fish & Flavours at the end of March, when iconic local and international chefs showcase their fish-focused culinary specialties. What's more, spring is the perfect time to savor leisurely meals at open-air cafes and take in Portugal's legendary fado music.

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

For dry conditions, you'll want to plan a trip from December to April, but if you don’t mind getting wet, consider visiting this vibrant Vietnamese city in at the end of the rainy season in October to rub shoulders with fewer visitors at top markets, temples and other attractions. Don't miss exploring trendy cafes (hat tip: L'Usine in District 1), perusing the stands at the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, admiring the Saigon Opera House or checking out the Jade Emperor Pagoda. Other can't-miss city gems include Van Thanh Park and the Saigon Central Post Office, which was designed by the Gustave Eiffel and serves as a stark reminder of the city's French colonial heritage.

Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao

While it may seem counterintuitive in the wake of Hurricane Irma, there are idyllic Caribbean destinations outside the hurricane belt that don't pose the same risks and are safe to visit, even in fall, Frommer says. For example, you can land a great deal, encounter few crowds and enjoy comfortable conditions without worrying about a hurricane in the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao), located north of the equator, she explains. While tourists tend to stay away in the fall, the reality is, generally, these destinations are at little threat of severe storms at any time of year.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Dodge spikes in crowds and hotel rates by planning a trip in early April or May, the end of the peak winter ski season and a prime time for wildlife-viewing. By visiting in spring, you can avoid the sky-high rates of summer due to the throngs of tourists visiting nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton. In spring, you run the risk of wetter conditions, but if you're willing to pack extra layers and rain gear, you can enjoy top spots such as the National Elk Refuge – and check out Elkfest in May – and the Granite Hot Springs without dealing with heavy crowds and attraction lines. As an added bonus, you can secure enticing deals and packages at top-tier hotels like Spring Creek Ranch in the off-season.

Memphis, Tennessee

From barbecue to bourbon to rock 'n' roll, Memphis offers a little bit of history, blues and Southern charm rolled into one. And if you visit between April and May, you can experience the best of the city without enduring sky-high temperatures (and humidity). Check out exciting springtime traditions such as the Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in May, and don't skip city highlights such as Graceland and the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. Even better, penny-wise visitors can check out an abundance of free attractions, from the daily duck march at the Peabody Hotel to free city walking tours.

Outdoorsy types and culture vultures alike flock to Vancouver, dubbed Hollywood North, to check out its mix of natural attractions, from Kitsilano Beach to Stanley Park, and eclectic art-centric spots, from Vancouver Art Gallery to Granville Island. In fall, deal-chasers can benefit from bargain-friendly hotel rates, comfortable temperatures hovering in the 40s and 60s through November and thin tourist crowds. You can also partake in a variety of seasonal festivals and events at this time of year, including the Vancouver International Film Festival, which begins at the end of September, and the Vancouver Halloween Parade & Expo in October.

The Maldives

The Maldives' chain of 26 atolls teems with coral reefs, fascinating underwater creatures and unique overwater bungalows. If that's not enough of a selling point, perhaps the high-end resorts, dreamy sunsets and pristine beaches will entice you. Though the prices at the Maldives luxurious resorts are steep year-round, if you visit in the off-season, from May to November, you can land discounted lodging rates, take advantage of excellent surfing and snorkeling conditions and still-comfortable 80-degree temperatures. With that said, visiting during the off-season comes with major trade-off: the risk of showers and monsoon season. For milder and more predictable conditions, consider visiting in April, the tail end of the dry season.

Paris is always a good idea, but in October and November you can dodge heavy crowds, peak-season room rates and long wait times at top attractions and restaurants. While you'll want to sport extra layers, with temperatures in the City of Light dipping into the 40s and 50s in October, you can enjoy blazing fall colors at the Jardin du Tuileries and Palais-Royal Gardens, and seize upon shorter lines at iconic attractions, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Best of all, the brief window marks an ideal time to secure discounts on flights and hotel rooms before the holiday rush and after the prime summer travel season.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon's grandeur and scale is awe-inspiring at any time of year, but Howard suggests visiting in September, as the temperatures start to dip and the park is easier to get around. In fall and winter, you can also take advantage of shorter days, translating to more opportunities to catch the sunrise and sunset during your visit, he adds. Plus, with the kids back in school, you can enjoy scenic lookouts and trails without heavy tourist crowds at your side. The only downside: Some business operators shut their doors in the off-season. The North Rim, for example, closes from mid-October to mid-May because of road closures and inclement weather, so check advisories prior to your trip.

Yellowstone National Park

With its surreal geological wonders, such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, fascinating wildlife (think: bighorn sheep and bison) and ample opportunities to embrace the great outdoors, Yellowstone offers plenty of enticements for planning a trip. But with more than 4 million annual visitors, timing is key. From September through November, the crowds have dispersed, campsites and hotel rooms offer greater availability and temperatures linger in the mid-30s to 60s. There is one trade-off, however: Since the weather can be fickle, some main roads may be closed during the off-season, so make sure to check current advisories ahead of your trip.

Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama enchants visitors with its ethereal backdrops, filled with sand dunes, salt lagoons and volcanic rock structures, among other natural splendors. November and December offer a sweet spot between the frosty winter months in the Southern Hemisphere (June to September) and the hot summer months (January to March). When you're not checking out showstoppers, such as Coyote Lookout, the El Tatio geysers or the wind-whipped sand dunes in Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley), take in star-speckled skies at night or enjoy your surroundings in luxury at Explora, which offers all-inclusive rates covering meals, lodging, transportation, park entry fees and a variety of excursions, from horseback riding to guided hikes.

Florence, Italy

While you will need to pack additional layers to stay prepared for temperatures ranging from the high 30s to 70s, September to November marks an enticing time to visit Florence and admire its myriad architectural and historical gems, not to mention its cosmopolitan fashion and dining scenes. Though you'll contend with heavy tourist crowds through mid-October, in November you can secure lower accommodation rates and catch the end of harvest season. Autumn is also an ideal time to watch the changing colors at Boboli Gardens and take advantage of shorter queues at the Uffizi Gallery. What's more, you can easily tack on a side trip through the rolling hills of Tuscany to catch a spectrum of harvest-season colors.

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• Destinations
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16 Best Off-Season Travel Destinations For 2024

Traveling to major tourist destinations in the offseason is the best! Why? Because you can experience all the major sights without having to elbow other tourists and save loads of money as well.

Imagine experiencing no queues at the dinner tables, buying flight tickets for half the price, and not waiting for 7 hours to get into a museum. During peak season all these things can make you hate traveling while you silently wish for all the tourists to just disappear.

Smart travelers know how to avoid crowds and that’s what we are here for. Presenting you some of the best places in the world to have your amazing vacation without millions of people fighting with you for the perfect photo of the main attraction. Are you excited? We are as well, so let’s get started!

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a real dreamland in summer. However, this season of the year brings higher hotel costs and a slew of travelers.

As experienced travelers know, this famous Italian wine region is beautiful at any time of the year. In fact, the region’s rich and famous vineyards and local cuisine are best enjoyed in winter.

Tuscany is also known as a cultural destination because of its art and history, and you do not need the sun to appreciate these components of their culture. 

The walled medieval villages of Montepulciano, San Gimignano and Pienza are even more pleasant to visit in the off-season because there are no crowds.

But Tuscany also has an adventurous side. Other activities you can do in Tuscany are,

• Going for a long hike in the mountains.
• Renting a Vespa and running through the countryside
• Visiting naturally formed hot springs – Popular hot springs are Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo, Petriolo, and Saturnia.

St. Lucia – The sun-soaked Caribbean

The hotels, attractions, and restaurants will be heavily booked and more expensive than in the offseason, so make sure that you reserve everything in advance.

June through November (The Caribbean’s hurricane periods ) are better if you want to avoid high prices and crowded beaches.

Prices on airline tickets and hotels drop for as much as 50% so this is the perfect opportunity to take advantage off. There doesn’t exist a person in the world that doesn’t enjoy the Carribean so don’t miss out on an experience of a lifetime.

Visit Fiji During Low Season!

Fiji is a pleasant tropical destination perfect for an excursion during any time of the year. Although this utopian island Shangri-la doesn’t have any discernible “seasons”, there are certain periods of time during which more or fewer people choose to visit this incredible place.

Fiji’s “wet” or “low” season can be just as inviting as the “high” season when tourism is at its peak.

During the months of November through late April , you’ll be able to catch much cheaper flights and score completely affordable lodging, all while not sacrificing any of the sunshine you’d normally expect to experience here, and simultaneously beating the crowds.

These are some of the perfect months to plan a visit for, especially if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing trip for Adults. The swimming pools and beaches won’t be nearly as congested, and since school is in session, there won’t be as many noisy children to kill your vibe.

Christmas break is one of the only times during the winter months where you’ll find kids running about. Falling within the first couple of months of the low season, this is the perfect time to bring the kids for the ultimate family getaway during the holidays.

All in all, if you’re craving a bit of the island life during the winter months, Fiji is a must for you.

A Sub-Tropical Getaway During Hurricane Season? Yes.

Florida gets a bad rap during the months of August and September and as a direct result, vacations here can be much more affordable during this time.

Over 20 million people live, stay, and enjoy the state every year during the tourist dreaded “hurricane” season, when in fact hurricanes aren’t nearly as common as you’d think.

Prior to 2016, Florida hadn’t seen a hurricane make landfall in over 11 years. That all came to an end in September 2016, when Hurricane Hermine touched the coast and shortly thereafter, weakened into a tropical storm. In 2018, Florida saw the effects of Hurricane Michael along the panhandle. Although this may be enough to scare some people away during these months, you can take advantage of the cheap airfare and lodging prices. That being said, It’s always best to choose to be prepared for the unlikely, yet potentially extreme situations if they do so happen to arise.

Depending on where you are in The Sunshine State, you can anticipate rain showers for an hour or so nearly every afternoon, especially on the coast. Although this is true, it usually tends to clear up fast and things are bright, sunny, and back to normal in no time.

Purchase traveler’s insurance! This is a great option for anyone traveling under any circumstance, and it would be a smart move for someone visiting Florida during this time period.

Check with your airlines, hotels, etc. to confirm how they advise their guests of any potential dangers. Also, you can stay ahead of the game by downloading weather advisory apps to your smartphone and checking the hurricane and tropical storm information websites.

With this information at your fingertips, it’s up to you if you’re willing to make the decision to travel here during the off-season season, but if you do, you just might find yourself having the time of your life.

New Zealand – Travelling in Off Seasons

In the offseason, everything is cheaper and in spring and fall, everything is stunning. The winter is perfect if you love skiing and snowboarding.

During the off-season, you will also have the opportunity to meet locals and you can afford to be more impulsive and not have everything booked in advance. New Zealand has a good reputation all over the world, so booking a vacation there is not a bad idea. Nature is stunning and every sporty person loves the array of activities in New Zealand.

Greek Islands – The land of sightseeing

Yes, in the off-season you’ll miss the Mykonos nightfall, but in March still, visitors can enjoy Santorini and Athens sights with no regrets.

During this time hotel and travel prices drop largely. That’s why travelers should plan to visit it in the offseason.

Experience the amazing greek culture and food, have fun on the beach or dance sirtaki with the locals. Greece should be on everyone’s to-do list. If you haven’t been there yet, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of its off-season prices and have a trip of a lifetime.

The Bahamas – The Country without fall season

Anyhow there is no bad time to visit the Bahamas because of year-round it’s always delightfully warm.

Tourist attractions are bustling during the high season so if you want to book a cheap excursion, have no crowds and see more with less go there in the offseason. You will fall in love with the place and will yearn to return to it once again in the future.

San Francisco – Land of four distinct seasons

The best time to visit is from September to Novembe r , at that time it is the warmest and there are fewer tourists than in the summer.

It also is the perfect time to go to the beach because of its constantly sunny skies but don’t underestimate the bayside breezes and pack accordingly just in case.

Spring is also nice because there is not much rain. San Francisco definitely is one of the gems of America and you should definitely not miss out on it if you travel to the USA . It’s culture and tradition definitely made a mark in the history of the USA.

New Orleans – Enjoying Mardi Gras

New Orleans is known for its crazy Carnival ( Shrove Tuesday ) celebration which starts just after Christmas. At that time it is really crowded but it is well worth it and you should book everything a couple of months in advance otherwise it might get sold out.

The winter is the perfect time to avoid the crowds, get amazing deals on flight tickets and cheap hotels. December and January are the coldest months so pack accordingly.

If the weather is more important to you, then we recommend you go there in spring or fall. In spring the prices increase for quite a bit but the city becomes marvelous as it gets warmer. We know you will love New Orleans and look back on the memories you have made there with joy.

Cape Cod – The Summer destination gem

There’s immense satisfaction in exploring Cape Cod during the winter time. Expert voyagers can try hiking and biking to experience the full fun of the period between October and November.

You also don’t have to wait to for a plate of seafood on the table and the meals are extremely cheap. In autumn, travelers can explore Wellfleet Oysterfest to get a taste of the local culture.

Costa Rica -Travelling in Green Seasons

When crowds have gone back to schools and to work, smart tourists can start packing to get a better deal. The rain and clouds create beautiful green landscapes and transparent waterfalls throughout the downtime.

Enjoy pleasant moments in nature and find joy in the afternoon rain while resting in a hammock. How could you not enjoy that, Costa Rica definitely is a must go in the offseason. Nature is beautiful, people are friendly and the prices are low, seems like the perfect package.

Florence – The City with full of crowd

In the off-season, the crowds are gone entirely. The downtime starts in November and ends with Easter. Vacationers can get pleasure from rainy evenings and connect with locals all throughout the season. Except for Christmas and New Year eve, the prices go down for almost a half which is amazing for budget-oriented travelers.

You will definitely not regret visiting Florence in the offseason and you will be completely amazed at the beauty of the Renaissance architecture.

Italian culture is something you have to experience and their cuisine is something you won’t ever forget. What are you waiting for, book your flight tickets to Florence right now!.

Bali -The Romantic Honeymoon destination

Everything turns green at that time so you will definitely enjoy the scenery. You will be the only person visiting the sights so it will be perfect for taking photos for Instagram. Traffic is also non-existent in those months. Bali has been referred to as the paradise on earth, so it must be amazing. It is perfect for reconnecting with yourself and experiencing the world on a deeper level. Go to Bali and experience it yourself! 

There is plenty of things TO DO in Bali  and you won’t know what to do first, even when visiting in low / rainy season. 

Byron Bay, Australia

Though Byron is popular throughout the year, there are exciting things to explore in the offseason. The beginning of wintertime is awesome because it isn’t too cold to swim but surfing becomes way more enjoyable. Spring from September to November is also amazing.

Why? The weather is dry, the temperatures are pleasant, the prices go down and there are countless activities you can do. Australia is on most of the people’s bucket lists, we think it is time for you to cross it of yours! Though the country has a very strict decree for hunters, they’re allowed to take part in Red Deer hunt game throughout the year.

So an opportunist won’t miss the chance to take part in such a thrilling game with his best binoculars for hunting and will make his/her journey more meaningful.

Prague, Czech Republic

Spring and early fall are perfect as well. The climate is chillier than in the warmer summer months but there are fewer crowds and cheaper hotel rates. Spring and fall, however, offer clear skies and sunny weather.

There are still some tourists in the spring so still prepare yourself and book everything in advance. We know you will love Prague so tell us how it was once you come back from your trip!

Cape Town, South Africa

January to April is the best time to visit the city as the summer is just ending. December to February is the peak summer season when you can expect busy nightlife, crowded beaches, and a warm vibe.

By February most of the tourists leave making it perfect for saving money, chilling on an uncrowded beach and experience less wind. From July to September it is perfect for watching whales along the coastlines as well.

It can be a bit dangerous in some outside areas so don’t do foolish things if you don’t have to. Other than that Cape Town can be the perfect vacation destination.

If you are on budget or looking for great travelers community, check out our roundup of Best Hostels in Cape Town for Backpackers!!

High, Low, & Shoulder Seasons: What to Expect & When to Travel

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Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia

Whether looking for the right time to tour Italy’s famous coastline or trek the renowned trails of Patagonia, the best time to see lions on the savannah or cherry blossoms in Japan, understanding what to expect during the different travel seasons can help you get exactly what you want most out of your vacation.

The time of year you travel can be essential to seeing and doing what you want, and there are good reasons to consider the benefits of travel across the different times of the year.

Learn more about what to expect during the high, low, and shoulder seasons with this helpful guide.

What is High Season?

What is shoulder season, what is low season, when should you travel, book your trip for your preferred travel season.

Positano, Italy

The high season, sometimes referred to as the peak season, is the busiest time of year for a travel destination. It often coincides with large crowds and higher rates, from hotels to transportation, and guides.

Because of the popularity of this time of year, high season is often associated with the “best time” to visit a destination. Often, it corresponds with the best weather, attracting travelers eager to enjoy a destination and activities associated with the right temperatures.

Seasonality can play a big role in your trip, depending on the type of vacation you want. For beach destinations, the high season can coincide with dry, warm weather, just like the winter can mean peak season for a ski destination known for snow, slopes, and cozy accommodations.

High season can also refer to the time when the largest number of travelers are able to visit a specific destination, rather than solely the best time to visit. For example, many families travel to Europe in summer, not necessarily because summer is the best time to visit Europe , but because it is the time when children are out of school and parents take a vacation.

Travel during the high season if the time is right for you or if there is a specific experience that takes place then. While much of Europe sees a huge influx of travelers during summer because of school breaks, Japan sees hordes of local and international tourists in spring, who arrive to view the cherry blossoms .

By focusing on your goals and interests, you can plan for the crowds or around them. This makes travel during the high season a much more pleasant experience.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Jardin de Tuileries in Paris, France

Shoulder season in travel is typically defined as the time between high and low season for a given destination. The timespan depends on the location and the popularity of travel during different seasons that can be affected by variables like the weather, festivities, and activities.

The shoulder season generally sees a lull in tourist crowds, while still edging the popular seasons to ensure open restaurants, shops, resorts, and activities. Outside of ski season, many businesses may close. Outside of beach season, islands and coastal businesses often shutter their doors. In many destinations, more travelers are visiting during the shoulder season to avoid the high-season crowds and enjoy traveling at a slower pace.

Overall, the shoulder season represents times between specific weather conditions and seasonal activities that draw travelers to specific destinations. For instance, France has a high season in summer, a shoulder season in fall, and then another high season in winter, with travelers arriving to ski in the Alps . Tanzania has a high season in the dry months from June to September, a shoulder season from October until February, and a low season during the high rains from March to May.

When traveling during shoulder season you can most often enjoy the best seasonal experiences without large crowds. Prices are often lower during shoulder season, popular destinations have more capacity, you won’t compete for a limited number of reservations, and the weather is typically pleasant.

Travelers visiting during shoulder season usually have more flexible schedules and choose to travel at a different time and pace, while looking for a more personalized experience.

Masai Mara, Kenya

The low season is also named “off-season” and is characterized by a smaller number of tourists visiting a destination. Lines are shorter, rates generally drop, and the weather may be less predictable.

The term low season is often connected to a destination’s weather, with fewer travelers visiting Kenya for safari during the rainy season or smaller international crowds traveling to Patagonia in the winter.

While the weather plays an important role, it is not the only factor in establishing the low season. Fewer flights or transportation to a destination, closed seasonal businesses, and fewer tours can also impact low-season travel.

When weather may be a deciding factor in your travel plans, such as visiting an island destination and wanting good weather for the beach, low season is often another name for the rainy season. However, “rainy season” is often inaccurate, creating a vision of endless rain that ruins a beach vacation. Destinations like Costa Rica and Tahiti are known for having rainy seasons, but even during the wet months, showers are often heavy but fast, allowing plenty of time for adventure, exploration, and relaxation.

Travel during the low season can feel like the opposite of a tour during the high season. Fewer crowds, attentive service, and more favorable pricing are compelling reasons to travel away from travel peaks. If the weather is not an important factor for your trip, the low season often offers a fantastic escape from the expected long lines, crowds, and higher prices of the high season.

The low season may also give you a more relaxing ambiance through which to discover your chosen destination. Locals are typically more welcoming to visitors during off-season travel and the smaller crowds make it easier to travel at your preferred pace, without rushing to beat large groups to a particular monument, museum, or restaurant.

in Grampians National Park in Victoria, Australia

The best time of year to travel is all about you. While the shoulder season may sound like the best time to visit Australia or India, it won’t matter if you are unable to travel during those months of the year.

You may have a list of places you wish to visit each year or perhaps you travel based on the time of year you have available. Depending on your interests, goals, needs, and expectations, you can have an incredible experience on your vacation during the high, shoulder, or low seasons.

Working with a travel specialist can give you more in-depth and local information, as well as help you plan around any foreseen challenges to ensure your best trip, no matter the season.

Himeji, Japan

Whether looking for great weather or the least crowds, finding the best time to visit a destination can make the difference between a good and a great vacation. From cultural experiences to pristine beach getaways, wine and food tours to remarkable trekking excursions, what you want to experience could directly affect when you travel.

No matter the type of experience you want, you can find more information and new insights on select destinations with our guide to the best places to travel by month .

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The Best Destinations for Off-Season Travel, from Iceland to Okinawa

By Chadner Navarro and Travis Levius

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Despite conventional wisdom, traveling in the off-season (or low season) has its benefits. Visiting places when their tourism numbers are typically at their lowest of the year often means savings on transportation prices (not just planes and trains, but car rentals, too) and cheaper accommodations. Hotels slice their rates by as much as half, but they’re also generally more generous with things like complimentary amenities and suite upgrades during a lull in bookings.

As for the destinations themselves, a lack of other travelers allows you easier access to attractions and sites that would otherwise be mobbed during busier pockets of the calendar. (This also goes for snagging reservations at sought-after restaurants .) After all, most experiences aren’t exactly improved upon when you’re packed like sardines—especially during a pandemic.  Traveling when cities and resorts are less busy doesn’t just help you get a more pocket-friendly vacation; local hospitality businesses can benefit, too. Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators can keep staff employed for a longer chunk of the year, as opposed to just during the five-month stretch of summer. And by avoiding destinations when they’re at near capacity, you’re alleviating some of the stress on their tourism infrastructure . In many ways, off-season travel is a win-win.  Try not to think of climate as a deterrent, either. Some destinations have high seasons that are pegged to good weather; visit them during months when weather isn’t the main attraction, and your experience can actually be revelatory. For example, the Amalfi in November is no longer about the beaches, but rather a chance to experience Baroque architecture and visit vineyards. And Kenya in the off-season (or green season, as it’s called) brings about lush vegetations that lures out all types of animals.

In a way, low-season travel is kind of like seeing an entirely new destination—even one you have been to before. Below, find our seasonal breakdown of where to go in the off-season, and why.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Mahali Mzuri, Kenya

January to March

You may not get to witness the Great Migration during this time (that takes place from July to October), but an East Africa safari early in the year often yields miraculous sightings of a different kind: It’s calving season, which means wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes will be giving birth to their babies. 

March also marks the start of Kenya’s rainy season, which means the country’s other tourist-heavy attractions—from trekking Mount Kenya to sunbathing on the island of Lamu—begin to see fewer visitors. This is also a great time to honeymoon in Sir Richard Branson’s Mahali Mzuri and take advantage of an even more intimate safari experience.

Northern California

NorCal’s world-famous wine countries may not be harvest-ready yet, but there’s still plenty in this region to satisfy your sense of adventure. In the northeast, right at the Oregon border, you can crawl through Lava Beds National Monument , home to hundreds of caves and countless Native American rock art sites. There are even ice caves that are only accessible during winter. 

Along the coast of Mendocino County, the first quarter of the year is fantastic for whale watching. Base yourself at the brand-new Montage Healdsburg , which is within walking distance of tasting rooms from Sonoma wineries. But through January and February, the hotel hosts weekly meet-the-maker wine events, complimentary to guests of legal drinking age.

Sahara sunrises might sound better suited for summer travel, but winter’s cooler months actually make for a much more pleasant (read: less sweltering) experience in the desert. And consistent swells from the Atlantic Ocean give both surfing enthusiasts and beginners plenty of waves to conquer off the coasts of Essaouira and Taghazout. The treasures of Marrakech’s medina are much easier to mine through, too, as the city takes on a quieter allure. The iconic, historic La Mamounia ’s recently upgraded hotel grounds—now featuring a pan-Asian Jean-Georges restaurant, an underground wine library, and a 21-seat cinema—are primed for discovery.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland

April to June

Going to the picture-perfect Maldives is all about getting away from it all. Jetsetters typically avoid the islands during the springtime rainy season—visit during these months, and you’ll really feel like you have full run of house of some of the planet’s most sought-after hotels. With an experience this exclusive, what harm is a little afternoon shower?

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

For many of us, a vacation isn’t complete without plenty of time to read. Luxury resort Soneva Fushi is elevating that bookish concept this May, when it will host an on-property satellite of the Jaipur Literary Festival . Boldface names like André Aciman (of Call Me by Your Name fame) will be leading keynote sessions and rousing convos around the hotel, adding a bit of intellectual action to the Maldives’ wet season.

This beloved Arctic destination is often mobbed during the winter and summer. Springtime is not only less crowded, but it also offers the best of both high seasons with warm- and cool-weather activities. It’s much easier to hike Iceland’s dramatic terrain (like the volcanic range of Mount Esja just outside Reykjavik) when some of the ice is gone, but before the tourists arrive. And if you’re lucky, sometimes the Northern Lights make an appearance as late as early spring. How unforgettable would it be to witness the phenomenon as you take a nighttime dip in the exclusive guests-only pools of The Retreat at Blue Lagoon ?

Not an outdoor enthusiast? Not a problem. Fans of all things manmade should plan to attend DesignMarch (May 4–8, 2022), a 14-year-old festival that celebrates the country’s lauded architecture, fashion, interior design, and more.

Okinawa, Japan

While most tourists are busy seeking out cherry blossoms in Japan’s major destinations, take advantage of Okinawa’s idyllic (and crowd-free) islands this April. A lull in tourism means resort prices are still low—including at the brand-new Hoshinoya Okinawa , surrounded by cherry trees and bougainvillea and soundtracked by martial arts chanting. Sun worshippers may get the occasional bout of hot weather in southern Japan, but the generally mild temperatures are perfect for active water adventures, like surfing, parasailing, and flyboarding.

Guests at Elysian Retreat, Australia

Butterfly at Elysian Retreat, Australia

July to September

Visiting Jamaica during the rainy season might not sound like a dream vacation. But if you’re going to get briefly rained out, you can’t pick a better place to wait out the storm than a discounted suite in Montego Bay’s painfully hip S Hotel , where fresh seafood and an underground bath system inspired by the island’s healing pools await. And when the sun does come out to play, it’s a great time to explore the lush, less-trodden south coast, known for its bountiful farmlands and coral-hued beaches. Take a bike tour of some of the region’s top farming and fishing teams to learn more about Jamaica’s sustainable agricultural operations.

Tucson, Arizona

The Sonoran Desert is great during the winter, but the heat of summer can be awfully overwhelming in Tucson. If it’s too hot to do much around town, take it easy at the iconic Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa , where you can soak in the pool and indulge in spa treatments for nearly half the price of high-season rates. You can then partake of their evening programming when the sun sets, including night hikes and yoga under the stars.

If you can tolerate the heat, September is also a great time to discover Southern Arizona’s winemaking scene, with a guided tour of Willcox wine country, an hour east of the city. Alternatively, book an appointment with one of the best brands coming out of the state: Sand Reckoner has a tasting room in downtown Tucson.

Queensland, Australia

Lower humidity during the southern hemisphere’s winter makes seeing Queensland’s unforgettable natural landscapes much easier—and a lot more comfortable. You can get lost in the remote expanse of the Outback on a four-wheel-drive adventure. You can explore as much of the 894,420 hectares of the Wet Tropics of Queensland—a World Heritage Site of forests that house the highest concentration of unique plant life in the world, including 90 species of orchids. And, of course, you can pay a special visit to the Great Barrier Reef, ready for diving and snorkeling. The eco-friendly, rustic-chic Elysian Retreat (the first solar powered resort in the area) is an exceptional home base for hopping around the GBR’s 600 islands. But this is also where you can get away from it all, as only 20 guests are permitted at any one time.

Delaire Graff Restaurant’s Blesbok Loin dish

Delaire Graff Superior Lodge Lounge Area

October to December

South africa.

The end of the calendar year sees South Africa just emerging from winter’s grip—it’s not quite hot enough to hit its beaches, but the bush is already teeming with action. While it’s still dry in October, a walking safari at Singita Lebombo in Kruger National Park is an exceptional way to see wildlife, as there isn’t yet much vegetation for animals to hide in. Given the property’s proximity from the river, you can even spot them from the resort’s relaxing pools.

Elsewhere in the country, city streets in Johannesburg are blooming with jacaranda trees. And booking yourself into the art-meets-nature grounds of Delaire Graff Estate in picturesque Stellenbosch gets you up close and personal with the lush beauty and juicy fruits of the Cape Winelands.

Amalfi Coast

A leaf-peeping trip opens up this storied Italian destination from mid-October until early November, when many of the tourists have fled but the region hasn’t fully shut down yet. It’s a fabulous time to visit the cliff-facing winery of Marisa Cuomo Winery , which specializes in late-harvest white wines. It’s also an ideal time to stroll through colorful seaside towns: buy ceramics in Vietri sul Mare, eat your weight in pasta in Nerano, trek the hills of Positano, and soak in the architecture of Amalfi. Get the most out of Amalfi’s newest gem: Borgo Santandrea , a luxury bolthole brought to life with a mosaic of striking tiles and verdant Mediterranean-style gardens. 

You’re typically advised against visiting tropical destinations during their green seasons, when precipitation is at its most intense—but that’s the tropics for you. A late-November or early-December visit to Costa Rica would likely mean that the worst of the rainfall has passed, leaving in its wake a country lush, verdant, glorious. Costa Rica’s post-rain splendor is especially visible at Nayara Springs , a luxury lodge tucked deep in Arenal Volcano National Park, where yoga sessions are staged to singing birds and jungle walks are accompanied by friendly sloths. Fewer visitors means more opportunities to soak in the beauty of the iconic, cone-shaped volcano.

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Our Most Popular Off-Season Travel Destinations (+ When to Visit)

by Brandi Gannon Nov 2, 2023

While summer and holidays may be the conventional vacation times, exploring off-season travel can be a game changer if you prefer avoiding the crowds.

It’s the perfect chance to explore popular destinations when most visitors have dispersed. Plus, off-season travel gives you the opportunity to discover unique experiences that are often overshadowed (or are very expensive!) during peak seasons.

Here are some of our favorite places to visit in the off-season, when to plan your vacation, and what to do during your stay.

Visit Europe – Especially Paris – During November or From January Through March

Tourists flock to cities all over Europe in the spring and summer, and Paris is no exception. Visiting almost any other time of the year means fewer crowds, better hotel and flight prices, and shorter lines to see landmarks like the Louvre.

However, we’d also recommend skipping December. Visiting Paris during the holidays is an incredible experience that’s worth planning at least once, but if you aren’t a fan of crowds, it can be pretty stressful.

As long as you pack a warmer wardrobe, Paris in winter has all the magic of Paris in summer with less hassle!

You can lace up your skates and glide across the ice at one of the temporary ice rinks set up around the city during the winter season. While some are only around in December, others can be found well into March – like the most popular rink found in front of the Hôtel de Ville.

Winter is the perfect time to savor rich, hearty, traditional French cuisine. Treat yourself to classic dishes like coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, or a comforting bowl of French onion soup. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Bordeaux wine or Champagne! The city is also known for its charming cafés, and winter is a great time to get cozy and indulge in a warm beverage.

If you’d like to visit more than just Paris, planning a river cruise on the Rhine offers fantastic value with the option to see multiple European cities on one luxury cruise. One of our Travel Advisors, Kelly, recently did a Rhine River cruise and shared all the details. Read more about her AmaWaterways experience here !

Lastly, keep in mind that the off-season travel period doesn’t just apply to Paris. Most of Europe is less touristy in the fall and winter, and you may find temperatures in the southern cities much more pleasant than in the warmer months.

Enjoy Off-Season Travel in the Caribbean in Late April Through Early June

Off-season travel in the Caribbean reveals a quieter, more authentic side of the area, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local charm and experience the region at their own pace.

When the temperatures get cooler in the United States, that’s when most people escape to the beautifully warm water of the Caribbean. Luckily, temperatures remain relatively stable year-round, so you’re not missing out if you visit in the summer.

One important factor to note is that the least-busy months are actually late June through September, but that’s because it’s also peak hurricane season. Visiting in late April through early June lets you skip most of the winter and spring break crowds while still staying safe.

Here are some popular vacation destinations and what to do when you visit!

Jamaica – Explore the majestic Blue Mountains, discover Jamaica’s delectable cuisine, visit a bioluminescent bay, and check out some local music festivals. You’ll have plenty of all-inclusive resorts to choose from during your stay!

The Dominican Republic – Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial, take advantage of the calm waters and enjoy some watersports, or hike to Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean.

Cancun – Discover the ancient Mayan civilization by visiting nearby archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Tulum, or Coba. The off-season is also a great time to visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve or take a boat trip to Isla Contoy. And of course, the cenotes and beautiful beaches can’t be missed!

St. Lucia – St. Lucia is famous for its iconic twin peaks, the Pitons. Take advantage of the off-season to hike Gros Piton or Petit Piton for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea! Visit crowd-free, secluded beaches and schedule a zipline tour for aerial views of the rainforest.

Plan a Trip to Mexico Year-Round – Depending on the Location!

While popular destinations in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula generally follow the same travel patterns as the rest of the Caribbean, other parts of the country are a little different. Here’s a quick guide on Mexico’s other popular destinations and when to visit for fewer crowds.

• Visit Huatulco and Oaxaca in April, May, September and October – These months offer milder temperatures that make exploration a lot more pleasant. The only thing to note here is that late October and early November can get crowded during the Día de Muertos celebration (but experiencing the holiday is definitely worth the crowds in this case)! Consider staying in Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa .
• Visit Mexico City in January through September – Mexico City will always be busy (it’s the second largest city in Latin America after all!), but you can avoid a lot of the crowds by skipping the holiday celebrations that take place in the latter part of the year. It’s important to note that winter nights can get pretty chilly, so pack appropriately!
• Visit the state of Chiapas in December, January or June – While it may be a little more rainy, the popular city of San Cristobal de las Casas is no less magical during the off season!
• Visit Los Cabos from June through September – If you’re planning to experience the area’s famous whale watching excursions, you may have to brave the high season crowds (October through May). However, if you’re there to explore and relax, the off season is the perfect time for it.

Want to learn more about traveling in Mexico? Check out some of best Mexico vacation spots !

Plan a National Park Vacation From September Through May

When most people think of visiting national parks , images of crowded trails, long lines, and packed parking lots come to mind. However, during the off-season – typically fall, winter, and early spring – these destinations transform into serene wilderness areas where you can experience nature in a whole new light.

Accommodation and entrance fees may be more affordable during the off-season, making a national park adventure more budget-friendly. Also, popular attractions that might have been fully booked in the summer could be easier to access without big crowds.

And aside from lower costs, there are other great reasons to take a national park vacation in the off season.

• With fewer visitors around, wildlife tends to be more active and visible. It’s easier to spot animals (or even interesting plant life) without the interference of bustling crowds. The off-season provides a better chance to witness animals in their natural habitats.
• While the off-season might bring about cooler temperatures and the occasional snowfall, it also offers a chance to witness landscapes transformed by winter. Glistening snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and mist-shrouded valleys create a unique atmosphere that can’t be replicated during the peak months.
• Speaking of winter landscapes, national parks in the off season are a photographer’s dream!

No matter which park or season you plan to visit, one of the best ways to tour a national park is by taking advantage of an RV vacation rental service . Let us know if you’d like some help planning a trip!

Whether you want to visit a destination during the high season or the low season, we’ll help you plan a vacation you’ll never forget! Key to the World Travel® Advisors have first-hand experience planning trips in destinations all over the world. Get in touch to start your vacation today!

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Privacy Overview

Low Season Travel

Last Updated on April 4, 2024

By Jim Ferri

It’s well known among people who travel a lot that the best time to travel is in the low season.

The low season is that hemisphere’s “winter” months, approximately November–February in the northern hemisphere and June–August in the southern hemisphere. 

Except during holidays, of course, when prices can be as high as in the high season, it’s at this time that prices are usually lowest. Traveling then can save you a lot of money and provide a better travel experience without the crowds.

Remember, however, that there are exceptions. For example, although winter is typically the low season in cities such as Chicago, Boston, and New York ( New York in the Winter – 20 Great Things to Do ), at that time it’s the high season in Miami. The same is true at ski resorts both in North America and Europe.

On a Low-Season Budget

If you’re on a budget and want to see the major European cities, the low season may be the time to go. Be aware, however, at that time the weather isn’t as good as many people like. The days will also be a bit shorter, and you may not find as many places open as you do during the high season.

On the other hand, those are also the things that keep some tourists away and force hoteliers and others to discount their prices. So if you want to save some hard-earned dough, the low season is the time to find discounts. 

You’ll also find discounts during the shoulder season, the time between the low and high seasons. It’s approximately March–April (into early May in some destinations) and September–October (into early-mid November in some places). They are the same months in both the northern and southern hemispheres although the seasons are the opposite.

Finally, keep in mind that prices will normally be more expensive during any festival time than in the “regular” low-season.

Suggestions for Discounted Low-Season Travel

I remember a publication a while back that recommended five low-season getaways that provided real savings for travelers. They included Las Vegas and San Francisco in the U.S.; Paris and Florence in Europe; and Goa on the west coast of India, all good, discounted destinations in the off-season. However, I’d also add Vancouver, British Columbia.

Prices typically drop in Las Vegas during November and December because the weather (rain and cooler temperatures) keeps the crowds at bay. Still, though, remember that in Vegas, you’ll be spending most of your time indoors anyway. 

February and March, on the other hand, can be prime times for the budget-minded traveler to focus on San Francisco. There’s always plenty to do in the City by the Bay, both inside and out, so even though the weather will be cool, you’ll generally avoid the winter rains. 

Save in Canada

If you don’t mind the rain, Vancouver, BC, during the winter, can offer substantial savings when traveling in the discounted low season.

I But the same is true for Montreal, Toronto and Quebec City, among others. Montreal is famous for its “Underground City,” a vast underground of subways and shops where you’ll be warm even on the coldest winter day. In fact, you can travel all over the city in a temperate climate.

 Quebec City, especially Old Quebec, is charming in the winter since it’s a virtual step back in time. Anytime the snow falls in Quebec, the city is beautiful. And in Ottawa, you can join the thousands of others who skate along the city’s frozen Rideau Canal. 

There are also many winter festivals all over Canada. They include   Igloofest (Montreal), Winterlude (Ottawa), Montreal en Lumière, the Quebec Winter Carnaval, Silver Skate Festival (Alberta), and many more. See a more complete list at Destination Canada . 

Focused on Europe or India?

If you’re focused on Europe, be aware that the low season in Paris extends from November through March, when rainy, shorter days keep many travelers away. For you, on the other hand, it can be prime time to visit all those museums you weren’t able to get to during the warm summer months because of the crowds.

It’s the same for Florence when the winter months can be a boon for anyone wanting to get their fix of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Donatello, and other masters in Florence’s almost 200 museums. And, like Paris, there’s nothing like shopping without the crowds during the less-crowded discounted low season.

If you’re interested in traveling to India, you can save some money by traveling to Goa in October. The reason is that the peak season will not begin for another month, and the weather is still quite enjoyable, with the monsoons a thing of the past, or at least the past few months, making it a perfect discounted destination in the low season.

Great European Places in the Low Season

I enjoy traveling to Europe any time of year. For me, each season has its charm.

However, during the past few years, I’ve visited several popular European places in the low season. I also spent time in several of them during the high-season summer months, when they usually are crammed with tourists.

I enjoyed all my visits in both seasons, but I found my winter visits unique and more enjoyable. True, I may have felt that because the summer crowds in the street were now nonexistent. But more importantly, I could also dive deeper into the essence of the place without waiting in line at museums, restaurants, and other places. As a result, I had a lot more time to do what I wanted.

One such place was beautiful Bruges in Belgium ( Why Bruges Is Better In the Off-Season ). When the temperature drops, Bruges turns from crowded to cozy. Everything feels more authentic, and I feel more like a local. Sometimes even a local from another century, as I view all that glorious ancient architecture.

Another place was beautiful Cesky Krumlov in Czechia. (By the way, Czechia is the new name of the Czech Republic, although I will say I liked the old name much better). One of Europe’s most picturesque cities, my wife and I went to this fairytale town in March.

We chose March since we wanted to avoid (and did) the claustrophobic tour bus crowds that invade the city in the warmer months. It was a great trip ( Cesky Krumlov from Prague – A Great Off-Season Day Trip ), especially since the city is such an easy day trip from Prague.

Speaking of Prague, I enjoyed my winter trip to this great city more than I did on a later summer trip. There’s so much to see in beautiful Prague, and it’s better enjoyed without the crowds. In addition, the city has an excellent transportation system. You’ll see what I mean in  Prague in Winter, a Perfect Time to Visit .

On this same low-season trip, we visited fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. We visited the castle during a two-day stay in the historical (and also fairytale-like) Bavarian town of Fussen. It’s only a 1½-hour drive from Munich ( Germany’s Fairytale Fussen in Winter – a Great Experience ).

I had been there in the warmer months but found that winter was the time to go. The crowds are gone, of course, so you’re not being pushed through the castle by the six tour groups behind you. But the real magic is seeing the snow around you and on the mountains all about, the icing on this fairytale.

Lest we forget Britain, you’ll find plenty to do in the U.K. capital when the temperature takes a nosedive ( Best Things to Do in London in Winter (or Any Time of Year) .

I love London. In fact, I love all of the British Isles. But in London during the low season, I just feel I have the city’s fantastic museums all to myself. Well, almost, anyway. In addition, I can also meet “real” Brits since shopkeepers and hotel clerks have more time to chat with me. I may even get a seat on the Tube if I’m lucky.

And let’s not forget another fantastic low-season event:  Christmastime in London . 

You may also enjoy:   Winter Events and Adventures During Low-season in Europe / How to Travel About Scandinavia on a Budget for 2 Weeks / 26 Great European Day Trips by Rail / Bus

March 8, 2023 at 11:14 am

Jim – thanks for this. We knew a couple several years back who always went to some place in Europe in January. They raved about the short lines, availability of restaurants, hotels etc. and, coming from Syracuse, they were used to winter weather. This article got me inspired to consider it again! Thanks!

March 9, 2023 at 8:20 am

Hi Pat, I’ve had some really great experiences in the low season all over the world. Then again, I’m an all-season traveler. Jim

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10 of the best off-season hotel deals to take advantage of this fall and winter

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• Summer may be just about over, but with many people working from home and some kids attending school virtually, there's more flexibility for a fall or winter vacation than usual.
• Areas that see most of the tourist action in the summer high season offer vacationers fewer crowds in the shoulder season and, best of all, great savings on hotels.  
• We rounded up some of the best off-season hotel deals to take advantage of over the next few months. From luxurious stays in Cape Cod and Nantucket to bucket list paradises in Hawaii, these properties all come at a discount in the low season.
• Is it safe to stay in a hotel right now? An infectious disease doctor, a cleaning expert, and hotel reps all share what you should know before you check-in.
• Sign up for Insider Review's weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals .

Summer may be coming to a close, but this year that doesn't necessarily mean the end of vacation time. With more people working from home and many kids able to learn from just about anywhere with virtual school programs, some travelers are looking to extend the usual vacation season into the fall and winter.

The good news is that areas that typically see an influx of tourists in the summer months often have great savings on hotels in the low season. Plus, the fall and winter months frequently see fewer crowds, which is a huge plus for social distancing. 

If you're wondering if hotels are safe to stay in right now , consider that experts have noted it's largely about how many other people you come into contact with. While vacation rentals may be the safest option right now due to no interaction with other guests, many hotels have updated their cleaning and safety protocols to give travelers peace of mind. We've included updated policies for each hotel on our list below, but it's also wise to read up on individual procedures yourself, as well as cancellation policies , before booking.  

It's also vital to keep in mind that without a vaccine, there's no guarantee of safety when it comes to travel right now. We always recommend following CDC guidelines, wearing a mask in public areas, washing your hands, and practicing social distancing. You should also read up on state and local guidelines and be extra wary and cautious if you're traveling from out of state, particularly to or from a hotspot area.

With all that in mind, if you are looking to snag a great hotel rate, look to places like beach towns and less touristy cities to get exceptional savings throughout the fall and winter. We've rounded up some of the best off-season hotel deals across the US, with savings of up to $600 per night when compared to high season rates for the same rooms.  

Read on for 10 of the best off-season hotel deals for fall and winter, priced from low to high.

The asbury - asbury park, new jersey.

Book The Asbury starting at $145 per night (save $150)

Asbury Park, a booming Jersey beach town known for where Bruce Springsteen got his start, serves as a cultural hub with plenty of live music and a burgeoning restaurant scene no matter the season. The Asbury hotel has plenty to offer travelers beyond the beach in the fall and winter. 

Those who visit in low season will experience fewer crowds and have better luck getting into culinary hot spots like Porta , Cubacan , and Pascale & Sabine . Plus, holiday visitors have the chance to see the area transform into a winter wonderland, with outdoor ice skating and more.

In any season, guests of The Asbury can enjoy the vibrant rainbow-hued lobby, live music, and sunset cocktails on the roof. The small, but thoughtfully designed rooms include old photographs of the area adorning the walls, plush linens, rain showers, and high-end bath amenities.  

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $145

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $295

Pros: A colorful hotel with a lively scene including live music in the lobby and DJ rooftop parties.  

Cons: The pool is only open in the summer.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 1 of 7 hotels in Asbury Park

Booking.com Rating : 8.4 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open. It is following CDC protocols, including implementing enhanced antiviral housekeeping protocols and comprehensive employee training. our response has been rapid and thorough. Some amenities, such as the bowling alley, are currently closed. See more info here . 

Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina - Newport, Rhode Island

Book Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina starting at $169 per night (save $90)

Set among cobblestone streets and the city's famed yacht scene, The Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina is in close proximity to the best Newport has to offer vacationers. While the boats may be gone in the fall and winter, there's plenty else to enjoy. 

Cozy up by the fire pits and take in an early sunset over the harbor, enjoy the local nightlife just outside your door, stroll down to the Narragansett Bay waterfront, or work up a sweat with an onsite, outdoor workout class with WAVE Cycle Studio.

Though, with views of Bowen's Wharf, balconies or private Adirondack chairs outside each room, and Newport Vineyard's local wine available to order to your room, you'd be forgiven for just putting up your feet and staying in.   

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $169

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $259

Pros: Close to all the action of Newport with harbor views, highlights of the hotel include private balconies or Adirondack chairs and outdoor cycling classes

Cons: While the location is excellent, the rooms are fairly standard in terms of design and amenities.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 9 of 24 hotels in Newport

Booking.com Rating : 8.3 out of 10 

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open. However, they have not outlined full details on updated cleaning policies or procedures. We will update this listing as new information becomes available.

The Nines - Portland, Oregon

Book The Nines starting at $179 per night (save $221)

For those seeking an escape in the Pacific Northwest, The Nines welcomes guests with its soaring, seven-story atrium. The eco-conscious hotel features modern interiors with a nod to vintage charms and the building's roots as a former department store.

The hotel has unique touches like an extensive and commissioned collection of original works from top-tier local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. Just off the atrium, The Library is a relaxing retreat with a custom pool table and floor-to-ceiling books provided by Powell's Books, a local icon and the world's largest independent purveyor of new and used books.

Foodies won't want to miss dining at Urban Farmer, the onsite restaurant that uses ingredients from the rooftop garden, including honey from beehives on the roof. 

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $179

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $400 

Pros: An eco-conscious luxury hotel with unique touches from a collection of original works by local artists to a large library of curated books.

Cons: Guests can choose from Atrium or City View rooms, but some reviewers have noted that not all City View rooms actually have great views, so the extra price may not be worth it.  

Trip Advisor Ranking : 34 of 155 hotels in Portland

Booking.com Rating : 8.8 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open. As part of Marriott's Luxury Collection, it will follow Marriott's new protocols, including:

• New cleaning technologies that include electrostatic sprayers that allow for touchless disinfecting capabilities and cleaning processes, along with and new regimen changes.
• Hospital-grade disinfectants used and increased cleaning frequency.
• In guest rooms, Marriott has added detailed cleaning practices, requiring all surfaces be thoroughly cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectants. The company will also be placing disinfecting wipes in each room for guests' personal use.
• More hand sanitizing stations around Marriott's hotels particularly near the entrances and front desks, elevator banks, fitness areas, and meeting spaces.
• See more info here .

Hewing Hotel - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Book the Hewing Hotel starting at $179 (save of $50)

The North Loop is the fastest-growing neighborhood in Minneapolis. Home to entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals, the loop is one of the best shopping districts in the Twin Cities, featuring numerous boutiques. 

For a nearby stay tied to the rich history of Minneapolis, travelers should look no further than Hewing Hotel . The hotel provides a nice mix of historic architectural details and luxurious modern amenities. Here, exposed brick, industrial elements, and soaring ceilings thanks to the building's warehouse past mingle among rain showers, flatscreen TVs, and curated literature collections.   

Fall is a particularly great time for a visit to Minneapolis. In addition to savings, travelers can enjoy taking in the changing foliage with a bike ride along the Mississippi River or with a stroll through Boom Island Park. 

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $229

Pros: Located in an excellent area, the Hewing has just the right mix of historical elements and modern luxuries.

Cons: Some guests have noted that the walls are not well soundproofed and you can hear noise from nearby rooms.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 3 of 57 hotels in Minneapolis

Booking.com Rating : 9.1 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open with new policies in place including:

• Hand sanitizer machines at entry.
• Sanitizer kits available at check-in.
• Plexiglass shields at front desk along with associates wearing masks at all times.
• Housekeeping services are upon request only.

Estancia La Jolla Resort & Spa - La Jolla, California

Book Estancia La Jolla Resort & Spa starting at $189 per night (save $130)

There's almost no better place to visit to escape chilly fall and winter temps than sunny San Diego. Best of all, while the temperatures are still warm, the crowds have generally subsided by November. 

Particularly ideal for social distancing, Estancia La Jolla Resort & Spa is a hacienda haven with nine acres of sprawling gardens for guests to enjoy the property safely and at a better price during the low season. Some rooms even come with private patios and balconies overlooking the lush grounds.

Resort amenities include yoga in the garden, a heated saltwater pool, outdoor dining in the garden lounge, a spa that offers CBD enrichment massages, and more. 

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $189 

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $319 

Pros: A hacienda-style retreat that is especially good for social distancing thanks to its sprawling grounds and rooms with private patios and balconies.

Cons: While La Jolla is an excellent area full of its own charms, you won't be right downtown in San Diego.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 9 of 24 hotels in La Jolla 

Booking.com Rating : 8.6 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open. As Meritage Collection property, it has new practices in place that include:

• Increased frequency in cleaning of rooms with a new dedicated cleaning team and with attention to high-touch areas.
• Communal areas cleaned regularly and more as needed. All tables and chairs at food and beverage outlets and banquet areas cleaned after each use.
• Hand sanitizer is available to guests at entrances and high traffic areas.
• QR-codes for touchless hotel information and menus in the restaurant.
• Pools have fewer chairs and the crowds are being monitored to ensure social distancing. 

Editor's Note: California is currently experiencing extreme wildfires affecting much of the state and the air quality. Travelers should call ahead to lodging providers and visitors' bureaus at their intended destinations. Find out more info here . 

Archer Hotel Napa - Napa Valley, California

Book Archer Hotel starting at $206 per night (save $141)

There's never a bad time to visit wine country, but starting in November you'll be able to sip your way through the region for less. 

The Archer Hotel is a boutique stay conveniently located in the heart of downtown Napa. The hotel boasts 183 well-appointed guest rooms, including 39 balcony-clad suites with gorgeous vista views. Even if you don't opt for a suite, you can cheers the valley scenery with a cocktail or glass of wine in hand at the rooftop bar. Or, as an overnight guest, enjoy exclusive access to the Sky Terrace and cool off at the water deck, a tranquil spot with 360-degree views.

Celebrated chef Charlie Palmer even has an onsite steakhouse. The menu is currently available for to-go orders and room service rather than in the usual dining room.

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $206

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $347

Pros: A boutique hotel in the center of downtown Napa with panoramic valley vista views from the rooftop bar and Sky Terrace.

Cons: Standard rooms are thoughtfully designed, but small at just 285 square feet.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 5 of 30 hotels in Napa

COVID-19 policies: This hotel has reopened with new practices in place that include:

• enhanced cleaning and sanitation throughout the day, paying extra attention to such high-touch areas.
• Housekeeping may be suspended upon request.
• The fitness studio and spa are currently closed.
• The water deck is open with social distancing monitoring.
•  Restaurants are available for to-go orders and are open for limited hours.

Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach - Clearwater, Florida

Book Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach starting at $295 per night (save $105)

Just 30 minutes from Tampa and steps away from the crystal clear waters of a beach that's frequently named one of the best in the US, you'll find the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach . The hotel is a Floridian retreat where guests can enjoy R&R and sunshine all year. But you'll find the best prices in the fall if you can sneak in a trip between the popular summer vacation season and the winter when people flock to the area to escape the cold. 

The resort includes 343 guest rooms with views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. Guests love the proximity to the white-sand beach, the numerous onsite restaurant options, and favorite local attractions, which include The Gulp Coast (Clearwater's lauded craft brew trail), boating excursions, The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the iconic Pier 60, and more.

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $295

Pros: Steps from one of the best beaches in America, the Florida hotel is close to all that Tampa and St. Pete have to offer, while still being far enough from the bustle to be a relaxing retreat.  

Cons: The large size of the resort and number of rooms could mean more interactions with other guests in elevators, lobbies, and pools than at smaller properties. 

Trip Advisor Ranking : 10 of 97 hotels in Clearwater

Booking.com Rating : 8.9 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open. As a Wyndham property, it will follow the brand's new protocols, including:

• Partnering with third parties including Ecolab to provide hotels with access to industry-standard cleaning and disinfectant supplies.
• Hand sanitizer dispensers placed at key guest and employee entrances and contact areas, including lobby reception areas, restaurant entrances, meeting spaces, pools, exercise areas, and more.
• Public spaces and communal areas are cleaned and disinfected multiple times per day, with an emphasis on hard non-porous surfaces such as guest elevator button panels.

Ko'a Kea Resort & Spa - Kauai, Hawaii

Book Ko'a Kea Resort & Spa starting at $319 per night (save $280)

If Hawaii has long been atop your bucket list, but high prices have kept you from pulling the trigger, opt for a trip from mid-September to mid-December to snag better deals. In fact, you'll find almost 50 percent savings at tropical paradise Ko'a Kea Resort & Spa in Kauai. 

The hotel is set to reopen to mainland travelers in early October. An ideal setting for complete relaxation, the resort rests directly on Poipu Beach. Guests can enjoy nightly tiki torch rituals, two pools, onsite watersport rentals, and rooms with ocean or garden views.    

The low season sees still-warm weather, fewer crowds, and fewer families, making it a particularly great spot for couples looking for a more affordable romantic getaway.  

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $319 

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $599 

Pros: A lush, beachfront hotel that makes for a relaxing and romantic retreat for couples in the off season.

Cons: Rooms are on the smaller side and while they are more than comfortable, if you're looking for a truly luxe resort this is not the spot. 

Trip Advisor Ranking : 4 of 7 hotels in Poipu

Booking.com Rating : 9.0 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is closed but accepting new reservations for October 2020. As Meritage Collection property, it will have new practices in place that include:

• Pools have less chairs and the crowds are being monitored to ensure social distancing.

Life House - Nantucket, Massachusetts

Book Life House starting at $339 per night (save $211)

The newly reopened Life House is housed in the historic Century House, which dates back to 1833. Once the home of a whaler, it was later turned into a luxury bed and breakfast and is the oldest continually operating inn on Nantucket. Most recently, it got a major overhaul from Blue Flag Partners and is now a 14-room coastal retreat that seeks to bring guests back to the joys of simpler times. 

That said, the property is firmly modern and includes digital room keys connected to the hotel's app, Le Labo bath products, and an optional social network for guests looking to connect with fellow guests and locals (whether virtually or at a safe distance). 

Additional highlights are a garden terrace with chic wicker egg chairs, fire pits, and an eclectic mix of furnishings from golden velvet armchairs to fun tiger carpeting on the stairway. The rooms follow suit, with raffia writing desks, crown molding, and fireplaces. 

Look to September to get the best prices here.

Starting price of a standard room in off season: $339

Starting price of a standard room in high season: $550

Pros: Set in the historic Century House dating back to 1833, the newly overhauled inn boasts eclectic furnishings that harken back to the property's roots with plenty of modern upgrades for a comfortable stay.

Cons: The communal kitchen is not an ideal hangout in the COVID era.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 7 of 34 B&Bs/Inns in Nantucket

Booking.com Rating : Not yet rated

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open. All Life House properties have new policies in place that include:

• Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of rooms, with particular attention paid to high-touch items. 
• Housekeeping is available upon request only. 
• Contactless iPads for check-in are available and cleaned frequently. 
• Hand sanitizers are located throughout and sanitizers are refilled and checked regularly.
• Use of disinfecting products that are approved by the EPA.

Chatham Bars Inn - Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Book Chatham Bars Inn starting at $400 per night (save $600)

While $400 per night is still a splurge, I speak from experience when I say this hotel is worth it for a truly luxurious getaway. While it runs well outside most vacationers' budgets in the summer, discerning travelers can enjoy the Cape's "second summer" throughout September and October and experience this coastal sanctuary at a steep discount. 

One of Cape Cod's most iconic and storied destinations for everything from family vacations, to romantic getaways to wellness retreats, the property first opened as a hunting lodge in 1914. Today, you'll find individually decorated rooms and suites with sumptuous details including ocean views, fine linens, marble vanities, and private decks and balconies.

Rooms are found in over 30 separate buildings spread throughout the inn's 25-acre estate, including cottages with private entrances. The hotel also has its own quarter-mile private beach and the historic town of Chatham is just a short stroll away.  

Starting rates of a standard room in off season: $400

Starting rates of a standard room in high season: $1,000

Pros: An iconic Cape Cod luxury stay set on 25 acres with a private beach, impeccable service, new socially distant offerings like private dinners on the lawn, and an excellent craft cocktail program.     

Cons: Even in the off season this hotel is a serious splurge.

Trip Advisor Ranking : 6 of 9 hotels in Chatham

Booking.com Rating : 8.7 out of 10

COVID-19 policies: This hotel is currently open with a new 'Well Being Plan' that includes:

• Amenity kits featuring disinfecting gel, nitrile rubber gloves, and masks will be provided for guests.
• Guests have the option of self-parking or valet parking. Valet team members will wear masks and gloves and sanitize each vehicle and keys after valet parking.
•  Curbside check-in will be available as a check-in option.
• Industry-leading cleaning and sanitizing protocols are used to clean guest rooms, with particular attention paid to high-touch items. Guests have a choice of housekeeping frequency.
• New dining options include Dinner on the Lawn, Picnic Lunch Baskets, and In-Room White Glove Service.

Subscribe to our newsletter. You can purchase syndication rights to this story here. Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Low season, low cost: Five tips for off-peak travel

Molly Feltner

Molly has also written for National Geographic Traveler Magazine and Fodor's Gold Guides . Her photography has been published in The Boston Globe Magazine .

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Nearly all popular travel spots experience highs and lows in the flow of visitors. During the low periods, airlines, hotels, tour operators, and other travel companies are eager to attract paying customers by offering deals. Price-cutting, freebies, and special offers suddenly become the norm in places that wouldn’t dream of offering discounts when demand is high.

For example, hotels in swanky ski towns like Aspen and Telluride do booming business in the winter, but may cut rates by as much as 50 percent in an attempt to lure outdoor enthusiasts to their mountains in the summer. Likewise, when visitation rates are down during the wintertime in Europe, hotels and airlines may halve prices.

Besides paying less, visitors who come to a tourist spot during the low-season will enjoy less crowding, and a more laid-back atmosphere. You’ll also get to experience more local color, and you may even find that the residents, who won’t be overwhelmed by hordes of tourists, treat you with more courtesy.

For instance, if you were to travel to the west of Ireland during peak travel season in the summer, you’d find the roads clogged with tour buses and the towns overrun by tourists. But if you wait until the off season in late September, you’ll travel through the countryside with ease and find plenty of counter space at the local pubs.

While low-season travel is great for penny-pinchers, it’s important to remember that destinations have slow periods for a reason: weather may be unfavorable at certain times of the year, and some attractions or activities may be unavailable for whatever reason. Unending rain during the monsoon season in Asia or 120-degree summer temperatures in Death Valley might be more than you can handle. And some National Parks, like Rocky Mountain or Glacier, may be completely inaccessible by car in the winter.

Sometimes the crowds can be so sparse a destination can feel downright lonely. Empty restaurants, shops, and streets may make getting around easy, but the quiet can feel unnatural. Also, you may find that the low season is used as a time for construction and renovation: Imagine staying in hotel when the roof is being repaired, or traveling to see a monument, only to find it covered in scaffolding.

Yet, while low-season travel has its risks, you might find the benefits outweigh them. Here are five tips for choosing a good low-season destination:

• Visit an area’s local tourist bureau online, or give the folks there a call to find when the low travel periods are, and why they are off-season. You can find links to the websites of tourism bureaus for countries around the world, all 50 states, and countless cities and regions on the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory . Note that each hotel, airline, or travel company individually defines the dates it considers off-season.
• The number one reason for an area being off-season is usually weather-related, so search the visitor’s bureau website and find out what weather conditions are like during these periods. Hot or cold temperatures might be an acceptable drawback, but a serious weather problem might rule out a destination.
• If there is a certain museum, attraction, or activity you want to see on your trip, visit its website or call the provider and check when (or if) it is open and if any renovations will be taking place.
• Once you’ve settled on a destination and begin looking for accommodations, call up the hotels you’re interested in and ask if construction is planned on or near the property when you visit.
• Use the area’s visitor’s website as a starting point for deal searching. Most of these websites have a deals and promotions section listing some of the region’s best offers for the season. You can also check out prices with tour providers and airlines that specialize in travel to the area you’ re interested in visiting. A guidebook for the destination or a “travel guide” website ( TripAdvisor.com is a good, free online travel resource), will usually list reputable tour operators and the airlines that service the region. Check with these companies to see if they have off-season specials.

SmarterTravel.com will also help you to learn about great off-peak destinations and deals with a four-part series describing the best low-season travel spots for each season. Check out our first segment, Top five low-season destinations for summer travel . Destinations include North American ski towns, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, Florida, and Costa Rica.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Why low season travel might be the next big thing (And why it should be)

What’s a long vacation for you? Ocd-ing the itinerary over and over, the good old last-minute packing, crammed tourist attractions, best weather, and some serious wallet squeezing. Nothing to complain about going over the top as long as it’s an absolute belter of a vacation. Was it though? Was it really perfect after all we’ve been through? Not always.

Can we let you in on a little secret about low season travel? (Psst! They may actually be the next big thing in travel). Take a look at why low season travel is the way forward and why it should be.

Sometimes, less is more

Maybe some of us are doing it wrong. What if you were to be told vacations need not be as hurried and as checkbox-driven? This pursuit of “more” leads to people always missing the one good trick about travelling—low season travel. While COVID-19 threw a spanner in the works of our travel spree, it has really pushed travel-fiends to crack open some best avenues of travel they’ve always overlooked. Staycations, micro-travel, glamping, campervan holiday and of course the hero of the article, low season travel.

Overtourism is gone for good

It is self-evident that the COVID-19 pandemic is changing in the way we travel. And it’s not even over yet. Travel lovers are shifting towards safe, easy and sustainable ways to travel more so than ever and if anything, it’s only fair that the tourism radar puts more local experiences on the map and takes the weight off of popular tourist destinations. Not only will this benefit the local economy and encourage people to get under the skin of a place and explore, but also reinstates the most important need of the hour—coexist with nature.

Finally, low season travel can be as good if not better than peak season travel

We’ve been saving the best for this one big vacation after all, so it may as well be unhurried and that’s what low season travel is about. Low season travel is not about travelling in hostile conditions. Low season travel is strategizing your travel dates when the low season is just about to end and the peak season starts. Check if the weather condition of the destination is moderate and doesn’t pose jeopardy to your vacation, what important attractions might be closed and you are well on your way. Hello discounted airfares and bye-bye crowds & tourist traps!

Read more to stay up-to-date with the  latest travel updates .

Akshaya Devi

240 posts published..

Scared of driving in Chennai traffic but also planning a solo bike trip to Ladakh. Don't be surprised if you find me all hyper, someone somewhere in the world must've misquoted Martin Scorcese or justified a bad coffee saying "C'mon, coffee is coffee".

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The best times to visit the USA

Aug 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Choose the best time for your visit to the US with this guide to events, seasons and crowds through the year © Mint Images / Getty Images

When you’re visiting the USA , the question “When’s the best time to go?” isn’t a simple one – but we’re here to help. Instead, ask yourself what you’d like to do on your trip.

Do you want to hike some of the country’s tallest peaks? Go to music festivals ? Soak up the sun on sparkling beaches ? Explore big cities? With its immense geographical and cultural diversity, you’ll undoubtedly find something amazing to do in the US no matter when you arrive.

Thanks to school schedules and warmer weather, summer is generally regarded as the high season, while crowds taper off in the colder months (with the exception of the holiday season in mid- to late December). Spring and fall make up the shoulder seasons, but some parts of the country experience high-season crowds at this time thanks to spring superblooms in the west  and fall colors in the east . 

Things slow down in the winter, but traveling during this time yields some unexpected benefits: comfortable temps in notoriously hot places, smaller crowds in cities, and tons of winter sports and activities, from skiing to snowshoeing to ice fishing.   

Here's what you need to know about seasons and events through the year in the US.

May to July is the best time for perfect weather

While ideal weather windows vary across the country, this is the period when most places have shaken off their winter chill and embraced the vibrant bloom of spring and early summer. The east bursts into color with nature-centric events like the Cherry Blossom Festival , the south lights up with fireflies, and wildflowers cover the rolling California hills. Patio season is in full swing in cities, and outdoor concerts begin to reappear after their winter hiatus.

This is also when cultural events kick into high gear, and national parks begin fielding some of their biggest crowds.

October to November is the best time for leaf peeping

The US takes on an amber hue in late fall, giving everything a cozy, crisp atmosphere that makes you want to grab a glass of warm apple cider. The deciduous forests of the northern Midwest, New England and Appalachia wow spectators with fiery maple trees and golden ginkgos, while western states like Colorado stun with yellow aspens that glow in the autumn sun. 

Note that some of the most popular fall foliage destinations (ie, Vermont , North Carolina , etc) see high-season crowds during this time, but don’t worry – you can still catch fall colors in less trafficked spots across the country, along with lower prices.

November to March is the best time for budget travelers and city breaks

Once fall comes to a close, the crowds ease up, and most places settle into a low-key hum as they batten down the hatches for winter. This is a perfect time to make a trip to the city that’s been on your bucket list, as hotel prices dip and crowds for big-name attractions and popular restaurants dwindle. Colder (and possibly wet) weather also makes this the perfect time to enjoy some of the country’s best museums .

The one exception to the budget rule is mid-December through the New Year, as places buzz with Christmas activity and folks take to the roads and skies for trips home for the holidays. Prices spike and availability plummets, but things calm down again pretty quickly in January. 

January to March is the best time to hit the slopes

Ski season technically starts in December, but slopes on both sides of the country really hit their stride in the months following the holidays. By February, most places – especially out west – have a good base of snow established, and fresh powder continues to fall. The length of ski season varies from year to year based on temperature changes and precipitation amounts, but sometimes lifts will stay open all the way through May. 

March to June is best for spring colors and hiking in the mountain east

Flowers, flowers everywhere! The bluebonnets in Texas , the rhododendrons of Tennessee and North Carolina, the poppies of California – the country is a tapestry of blooms as the first waves of warm weather shake it from its winter slumber. 

This is also the best time to explore the ancient mountains of the eastern US. Spring showers, warm sunshine and humid forests make for an explosion of life: mushrooms, wildflowers and blooming trees cover the ridges and hollows of Appalachia, from Georgia to Maine . Creeks are full, and waterfalls are at their most gorgeous.

June to August is best for festivals, hiking the mountain west, water activities

It’s summer, baby! And that means a few things: higher temperatures and bigger crowds, but also lots to do. 

Music festival goers will find themselves inundated with options across the country: big festivals like Bonnaroo, Electric Forest and Lollapalooza draw crowds by the tens of thousands, and tons of smaller regional festivals take the stage, too.

This is also peak time to hit the trails of the mountain west, as most roads will be cleared of snow, and transportation will be easier through high elevation territory. The mountainsides will be blooming, the wildlife out and about, and the camping fabulous. That said, you definitely won’t be the only one in the parks.

This is also prime time to experience the US’ numerous bodies of water. Grab a kayak and hit slow-moving rivers for peaceful floats, or opt for lively whitewater routes like the Gauley ( West Virginia ) or the Snake River ( Wyoming ). Lounge on one of the Great Lakes in the Midwest, or let the warm gulf waters along the southern coast lap at your feet.

Other seasons to know about

When it comes to US travel, there are a few weather seasons you should be aware of beyond the standard four, as they could potentially impact your trip depending on your destination.

Hurricane season June to November (Southeast)

Hurricane season runs from June to November, with peak activity happening in August and September. These storms largely affect the Gulf Coast in the southern US (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida), but some storms also make their way up the east coast to states like South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. Hurricanes can also impact inland destinations, causing issues like flooding and tornados. 

Fire season July to October (Western US)

Fire season occurs in areas regularly affected by drought, so large swaths of the western US are at risk for fire for large parts of the year. July and August are the peak months of fire season, with states like California, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho and Oregon fielding the brunt of the damage. Always check on fire conditions before heading on summer outdoor adventures here.

Tornado season March to June (Plains, Midwest, Southeast)

Tornado season occurs throughout the Great Plains, the Midwest and the southeastern US from March to early June. While these storms have a smaller path of destruction than hurricanes and fires, they spin up quickly and with minimal warning. Consult a forecast before outdoor excursions to see if there’s potential for severe weather.

This article was first published March 2021 and updated August 2023

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When to Go to Europe (A Guide to High, Low & Shoulder Seasons)

Knowing when to go to Europe can make or break your trip. Each season has its benefits and pitfalls, but it is no secret that avoiding the summer crowds will result in lower prices and wait times to enter attractions. But low season in Europe also results in the closure of many establishments and some small towns close down altogether! So if you’re wandering when to go to Europe, here’s our complete guide!

Peak Season

Mid-June through August

Summer in Europe is still a great season to travel in, but you’ll need to be prepared for crowds or know how to avoid them.

If you’re travelling to popular cities on the typical European itinerary (think Paris; Rome; Venice; Barcelona; Amsterdam) then you’ll have no choice but to brave the crowds. The best way to avoid crowds is to arrive 30 minutes before opening time for your preferred attraction and be first in line to visit that morning. Of course you’ll only be able to do this for one attraction per day, so choose wisely!

Otherwise pick off the beaten path cities to visit like Istanbul or Budapest where crowds will be lighter (but still busy – believe me!)

In terms of temperatures, you can expect really hot summer days throughout Europe during summer. Be sure to pack a pair of comfy shoes to make it through the day, but also don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunblock.

To avoid crowds in popular day visit cities (like Bruges in Belgium or Cesky Krumlov in Czech Republic), stay a night to see the city at dusk or before the crowds arrive at dawn.

Keep in mind that some places are indeed best visited in peak season! For example in small European towns like Hallstatt in Austria, the city all but closes up for the colder months. Thus travelling in the warmer months can sometimes be a necessity if you have particular places in mind.

Read more: Escape the crowds: 10 cities in Europe to escape the crowds in summer

November through March

Lets talk about low season – perhaps my all time favourite time to travel in Europe! Sure, I like the cold, so it is certainly not for everyone… but please, let me plead my case!

Low season in Europe almost always means low rates (December, January, February), save for the exceptions of Christmas and New Years. Hotels are often heavily discounted and can be found for as much as half the usual rates! Cities like Budapest in Hungary are incredibly cheap in low season as the supply for accommodation is high but the visitation levels are low. Heading further east to Romania will only result in saving more dollars!

This is indeed winter season in Europe, but it can often be the prettiest time to explore a city – with snow covered streets and a charming blue haze throughout the day as the sun struggles to break through. Be prepared for closures of some cities altogether, or disruptions to services due to the weather. Also be aware that winter in Europe results in much shorter days, with some cities in the North barely seeing the sun at all.

Read more: Where to go in Europe in winter

Shoulder Seasons

April through mid-June and September through October

My second favourite time to travel throughout Europe is in the shoulder seasons of Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November).

Be aware that shoulder season doesn’t necessarily fall directly into these seasons, as countries like Italy and France can often see higher visitation levels in these seasons and thus result in hardly any change in price from summer rates.

However if you get off the beaten path and head to small towns outside of capital cities, there is not only money to be saved but much to be enjoyed in these seasons. Locals are noticeably much happier outside of the busy summer rush and visitors are fewer than in the warmer months.

This begs the question… spring or autumn? Personally I prefer spring as you can enjoy Europe BEFORE the crowds come in by the masses and spoil the attitudes of locals who are eagerly working up towards their holidays. Plus a little spring time blossom makes for extremely pretty pictures!

Read more: Where to go in Europe in Spring

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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Colonial and military history giving way to a vibrant street culture and sophisticated nightlife

“Dua hau…dua hau…dua hau!! “ I am not a late riser but for three days in a row, I was woken early by this alarming cry from far below my otherwise delightful fourth storey Hanoi guest house balcony in the winding streets of the city’s Old Quarter. Convinced the shrieking lady was being beaten or worse, I enquired with my host what all the yelling was about. “Watermelon madam,” came the smiling reply. Yes, that was all, Vietnamese marketing at its very best. If you’ve got something to sell, just go on and shout it out. Next day as I sunk my teeth into the delicious fruity pink flesh, I thought about this amazing destination, and how it totally overwhelms the senses. The noise, the smells, the colours, and the wonderful tales told by this unique population. I’d recommend Vietnam at any time of year and suggest you stay as long as you can.

Amidst the nation’s infamously chaotic streets, you’ll find your own haven of calm, but with traveller numbers increasing, it pays to be a bit smart and consider a low season adventure to avoid the crowds and maximise your dong. If you’re looking to take in the whole country, the low season period covers May through to October. However, the skinny elongated geography leaves visitors facing three distinct weather patterns and two monsoons which impact on regional seasonality. That doesn’t mean there isn’t fun to had, just be aware and keep your plans flexible if you can.

Hanoi & The North Seat of Communist power and home to exquisite French colonial architecture, the capital is a fine starting point to tour the karst formations of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh or trek the Sapa rice terraces. The region has two main seasons, the very hot and humid summer which runs from May to September accompanied by heavy rainfall which marks the low season period, whereas a cold dry winter characterises November to March. In between, catch the lovely but short, blink and you’ll miss it, spring and autumn.

Central Vietnam Travel mountainous passes with roadside cliffs falling away to the beaches below. The imperial city of Hue and the charming port town of Hoi An are the main draws, but the ancient Cham ruins, DMZ wartime landmarks and beaches around Danang are also worthy. This area is somewhat protected from early rains by the mountains leaving it overly hot in May and June and subject to later rains from September to December when flooding can be an issue.

Ho Chi Minh City & The South Still known locally as Saigon, the bustling hub of the south has a laid back vibe despite its huge population, most of which seem to take to the streets by motorbike at all times of the day and night. Hot throughout the year, the south gets most humid and sticky in April to October when rain is frequent, especially in the afternoons. Take local advice if travelling to the Mekong Delta where flooding poses a real danger. Otherwise, dodge the showers in fascinating museums and wonderful boutiques and coffee shops.

Low Season Months

Featured hotels.

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

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Top experiences.

This historic port town in the central region is a perfect place to unwind and discover Chinese, Japanese and Portuguese past, fascinating architecture, full moon lantern festivals, and vehicle free zones. Hire a bike and explore the nearby rice paddies and the beach.

Tam Coc, Ninh Binh Province

Low season Halong Bay cruises can be cancelled at short notice, so try Tam Coc instead. Less frequented, and just as stunning, you’ll see limestone karst monoliths protruding mystically from the rice paddies. A sampan cruise with local rowers takes about two hours.

Cookery class

Take a taste of Vietnam home with you. There are some excellent classes starting from a half day, which include a market tour, recipes and of course a meal made by yours truly. Some of the best include Lua’s Kitchen in HCMC and Red Bridge in Hoi An.

Insider Tips

• Don’t try to do too much. There are so many great opportunities here it is easy to rush through a tick list. You’ll get more out of staying a few days in one area, exploring the hidden gems, meeting the people.
• If travelling the whole country, pick a north to south itinerary which starts in a cooler climate and you can adapt to the heat as you go. Finish with a Mekong River cruise across the border into Cambodia if time allows.
• Keep your beach break for another adventure, particularly during low season. There is so much else to do in Vietnam. If you really need your fix of sea and sand, choose somewhere like Hoi An with coast and town in close proximity.

Good To Know

• Overnight trains are a great way cover the country. A wonderful experience although many carriages are rough and ready. If you are travelling in a pair, make the journey more private by buying all four berths in your compartment.
• Traditional Vietnamese breakfast is a delicious rice noodle soup or pho. Sitting at a tiny plastic table, there is no better way to start the day than over a steaming bowl of fragrant broth brimming with herbs, chilli and lime.
• Vietnam is the world’s second largest producer of coffee, after Brazil. Visit a working coffee plantation, enjoy a freshly prepared brew in a local coffee shop, and take home a bag of beans as a special souvenir.

Food & Drink

Cha Ca Anh Vu, Hanoi

One of the best when it comes to cha ca. Cha ca is a specialty of the north and consists of succulent chunks of white fish marinated in turmeric, grilled and served in the centre of the table with vermicelli rice noodles, and fresh green veggies.

Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar, HCMC

This terrace atop the central Caravelle Hotel, offers a wide drinks menus and live music with great night time city views. Opened in 1959, it’s been a haunt for politicians, journalists and expats and retains a historic elegance to this day.

Bia Hoi, street corners everywhere

At the other end of the scale, light preservative-free draft beer is made fresh daily and thrown away at close of business. Join the locals on plastic chairs on bustling street corners to down as many as you can and enjoy the cheap, if unusual, accompanying snacks.

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'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

Summer travel in 2024 will be "expensive in every way," said Katharine Nohr. And she should know.

She's planning a two-week adventure to Europe in June, which starts with a marathon flight from Honolulu to Zurich, where she'll speak at a conference. Then, she's hopscotching across Europe – to Vienna, then on to the Olympics. Nohr made plans to be in Nantes, France, to watch a soccer game, in Lille for basketball, and in Paris for gymnastics, boxing, and swimming.

Check out   Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

All told, it'll set her back five figures despite her best efforts, which include flying economy class and staying in the lowest-priced hotels. 

"The trip is pricey, even with my efforts to economize," said Nohr, an attorney from Honolulu. "But it's a once-in-my-life adventure." 

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Summer travelers are pursuing exciting, expensive vacations

Nohr is part of a wave of travelers who are making big plans for this summer. The itineraries are exciting – and expensive. 

Pretty much every barometer of travel intent is up for the summer travel season. Inflation and unemployment are low, and consumer sentiment and curiosity are high, fueling an unprecedented interest in travel during the summer of 2024. 

"Bookings are rising," said Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency. "Unfortunately, hotel, tour, and air prices are not falling. So, if you plan on hitting the road this summer, make sure you are willing to splash some cash."

Travel companies say they're overwhelmed with summer reservations.

"The travel economy is booming," said Joe Ialacci, owner of Yacht Hampton Boating Club , a company that rents yachts in Sag Harbor, New York. He's seeing a 40% increase in rentals this summer compared to last year as Americans shift some of their vacation dollars to domestic destinations.

Prices aren't the only thing trending higher. People's expectations for their summer vacation are also higher than at any time since the pandemic, said Sangeeta Sadarangani, CEO of Crossing , a multinational travel agency headquartered in London. 

"They're embracing the unknown," she said.

And one of the great unknowns is travel prices. How much higher will they be?

What will prices be like this summer?

It depends on where you're going. There's good news if you're traveling within the U.S.: flights and hotels are a little less expensive than last summer . But they're rising elsewhere. Here's the breakdown:

• Airfares are mixed. Domestic roundtrip airfares for summer will peak at $315 per ticket, according to the travel platform Hopper . Flights to Europe are cheaper, too. They've fallen 10% from last year to $882. But flights to South America are up 2% and flights to Canada have risen 7%. You'll pay an average of $708 to fly south of the border and $419 to head north.
• U.S. hotel rates are down. Domestically, they're about the same as last year at an average of $206 per night.
• Car rental prices are rising. Average domestic car rental rates are only up 3% this summer to $42 per day on a four-day rental, according to Hopper. 

But you can avoid the high prices with a little strategic planning, experts say.

What to avoid this summer

American travelers are becoming more predictable in their summer vacation choices, said John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group . Immediately after the pandemic, they embarked on "revenge" vacations to far-flung locations. Now they're returning to more conventional vacations.

"We continue to see U.S. travelers heading back to the more traditional locations across Europe this year, like London, Rome, Athens and Munich," he said.

There are places that will be exceptionally busy – and exceptionally pricey – this summer.

• Paris during the Olympics. The Olympic Games are taking place in Paris this summer. Rooms are more than double the normal rates . which is typical of the Olympics. Paris is already crowded with tourists during the summer, so you can probably imagine what it will be like with the Olympics. Zut, alors!
• Taylor Swift is touring Europe this summer. Prices will be higher and the crowds will be denser. "If you aren't planning to attend one of her concerts, I recommend planning around those European cities when she's there," said Betsy Ball, co-founder of Euro Travel Coach . (Want to know if your schedules overlap? Here's Taylor Swift's concert schedule .)
• Other big summer events. Even if you steer clear of Taylor and the Olympics, you're still not out of the woods. There's the UEFA Euro 2024 football tournament in Germany in June. There's the Tour de France in July, which begins in Florence and finishes in Nice. France is also hosting the Paralympic Games in August and September, which will take place in Paris, Nice, Marseille and Bordeaux.

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When is the best time to book a 2024 summer vacation?

Since this is going to be a busy one, the sooner you book, the better. Hopper recommends buying your airfare two to three months before your departure for domestic flights, and for international – well, it's probably too late to get that rock-bottom fare. If you're reading this in April, you can still find something for late August or early September, according to its airfare experts.

As always, you can save money by booking a flight for midweek instead of on the weekend – and, of course, by keeping far, far away from the big travel holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day. 

Also, if you're going overseas, remember their holiday calendar is different. For example, half of Europe shuts down during August for summer vacation. It's worth a look-up, otherwise, you could face some real disappointments.

Strategies for traveling better during the summer

One tactic that consistently works is splitting your getaway into two sections. Take that required summer vacation with your family somewhere less expensive during the high season. Then, wait until shoulder season for the big trip. 

That's what Ross Copas, a retired electrician from Tweed, Canada, is doing during the summer of 2024. It's a road trip across the northern U.S. by motorcycle – New York to Washington State, and then back east through Canada. 

Then he's heading to Amsterdam in September for a 23-day European river cruise. He said the late summer getaway will be costly, but he doubts fares will fall anytime soon. "So price be damned," he added.

Actually, that's pretty smart. I took the same cruise he's planning on Viking River Cruises many years ago, and it was worth every penny.

With hotel rates rising in some places this summer, this is the right time to consider alternatives. Monica Fish, a writer from Glen Rock, N.J., is headed to Ireland to catch one of Taylor Swift's performances. She said hotel rooms in Dublin are overpriced if they're even available. But Fish found an affordable vacation rental. 

"We just had to book it farther in advance than we normally would," she said. 

Go ahead, follow the crowds this summer

I think it's fine to follow the crowds this summer. I'll be doing it. I'm planning to rent an apartment for a month in Switzerland with Blueground, a long-term apartment rental company. Then I'm crashing on a friend's sofa in Spain, then heading to Sweden to see other friends and visiting my brother in Finland. Yes, travel writers know people everywhere . 

But don't follow the crowds off a cliff. There are places even I won't go. I might take the four-hour train trip from Zurich to Paris in June to check out my favorite patisseries, but I wouldn't go anywhere near the City of Lights during the summer games in July unless I made a reservation a long time ago.

And Taylor Swift? Puh-leeze. I'm more of a jazz guy.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .

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Airline Peak and Off-Peak Award Charts: The Ultimate Guide [2024]

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Why Is Understanding Peak/Off-Peak Seasonality Important?

All nippon airways, american airlines, asiana airlines, british airways, virgin atlantic, final thoughts.

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Commercial aviation is one of the most seasonal industries in the world. Typically, the busiest time of the year for airlines is from May to October.

Of course, this varies depending on the exact destinations, countries, or even cities that you visit. That being said, customer demand plummets in the winter months from November to March, especially when visiting Europe.

Airline revenue ticket prices fluctuate wildly thanks to revenue management departments, crazy algorithms, and seats sold. The same is generally true for airline award tickets. As a result, many major airlines have chosen to adopt a binary award pricing scheme, whereby there is an off-peak set of dates priced cheaper than the remaining peak dates.

In this guide, we’ll be taking an in-depth look into every major airline’s seasonality charts and discussing the nuances of each program, with the ultimate goal of minimizing the number of points you’ll use for award flights.

Travelers with flexible plans ought to book flights during off-peak when possible in order to spend fewer miles.

You’ve already worked so hard to earn your points and miles, so why spend any more than absolutely necessary?

By planning trips around off-peak award dates, you’ll extract the maximum value from your points and miles. There’s a minimal amount of work in understanding what constitutes peak and off-peak dates for each airline you want to fly on, but it’s all worth it in the end!

This guide is not about variable award pricing, which itemizes mileage and award prices based on distinct levels. Instead, we’re going to be talking about the major airlines that have specific peak and off-peak travel dates.

Airlines That Have Peak/Off-Peak Award Charts

Before talking about each individual airline, keep in mind that some airlines adopt different seasonality policies depending on what route you fly on, while others have a simple binary system.

Let’s look into the airlines and dissect their peak and off-peak award charts.

Aer Lingus is Ireland’s flag carrier. Aer Lingus is owned by the same company that owns British Airways, IAG, and its frequent flyer currency is known as Avios.

Each calendar year, Aer Lingus publishes its off-peak and peak periods. The off-peak periods constitute two-thirds of the year, whereby you can book award flights for fewer Avios.

Additionally, Aer Lingus has a distance-based award chart along with peak/off-peak pricing. You can redeem Aer Lingus Avios for great value, especially if booking during off-peak dates.

Aer Lingus’s off-peak dates for 2024  are as follows:

• January 8, 2024, to March 21, 2024
• April 8, 2024, to June 6, 2024
• September 2, 2024, to December 12, 2024

Now that we’ve pieced together the seasonality, let’s talk briefly about how many Avios you’d save by booking off-peak. Here’s Aer Lingus’s award chart for one-way flights:

Suppose you wanted to fly from Miami (MIA) to Dublin (DUB) in Aer Lingus business class on September 18, 2024. Assuming you find availability on this date, you’ll be traveling on off-peak dates, meaning you’ll pay 62,500 Avios one-way as opposed to 75,000 Avios (the peak season price).

Let’s also suppose that the departing segment of your trip falls on peak dates while the returning flight falls on off-peak dates. In this case, you’d simply pay the peak price one-way and the off-peak price the other way.

Aer Lingus’ system is pretty straightforward, but you can save up to 12,500 Avios each way by planning your off-peak travel accordingly.

All Nippon Airways’ Mileage Club loyalty program is a fantastic overall program. Although its online user interface is somewhat dated, ANA has so many fantastic redemptions that you can’t miss out on.

ANA Mileage Club takes some time to learn about, but once that time is invested, you’ll find yourself digging up value redemption after value redemption.

Hot Tip: You can start racking up ANA miles pretty easily by following our guide on how to earn lots of ANA Mileage Club miles !

You can only book round-trip award bookings with ANA, so keep that in mind, too.

However, you can book one-way award bookings on ANA using Virgin Points via Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club .

Most airlines split up their peak/off-peak dates into a simple binary system, whereby a date is either a peak or off-peak date. ANA has 3 seasonality periods — low season, regular season, and high season.

ANA uses seasonality  only for ANA flights . Seasonality does not apply to partners like United Airlines. The following is a chart that depicts the most updated seasonality dates for flights between Japan and Europe/North America until early 2025:

Keep in mind that there are different seasonality periods depending on what regions you’re flying to/from , and even for domestic flights. For example, Hawaii has a slightly different set of dates to the above as it is in Zone 5, while the rest of North America is in Zone 6.

For flights between North America and Japan , here’s the round-trip award chart:

So, if you choose to fly on ANA business class round-trip from New York City (JFK) to Tokyo (NRT), departing on January 10, 2024, and returning on January 31, 2024, you’ll pay the low season price — an incredibly low 75,000 ANA miles.

On the other hand, flying during high season on the same route will cost a decent 90,000 miles. This represents a 20% hike in prices just for flying during different times.

Bottom Line: In order to figure out the price you’ll pay for a specific ANA flight during a specific date range, you’ll need to figure out the seasonality of the route first. Then, you can figure out the award price by matching the award chart pricing with the correct seasonality and route. Keep in mind that this only applies if you intend to use ANA miles on ANA flights. 

American Airlines  does offer off-peak awards, and these off-peak awards are often fantastic deals. However, American Airlines only does this for economy flights . Additionally, qualifying tickets include partner airlines and aren’t limited to flights operated by American Airlines.

That being said, American Airlines has off-peak economy tickets for just 2 regions — Contiguous 48 U.S. states and Canada and Europe — and these tickets are called Main Cabin Off-Peak .

The Main Cabin off-peak dates for 2024 are January 10 to March 14 and November 1 to December 14 . Tickets are 22,500 AAdvantage miles one-way.

Hot Tip: In order to minimize your out-of-pocket costs at the hands of fuel surcharges , try to plan your travel solely on American Airlines flights. 

Asiana Airlines has deservedly garnered a great reputation with its loyalty program Asiana Club . In addition, Asiana Airlines continues to be a top airline of choice to earn miles on, thanks to its attractive (and niche!) ways to redeem for maximum value .

Asiana Airlines has off-peak and peak pricing  only for its own flights . It also has different peak season dates departing on your exact route. Lastly, you can avoid peak season surcharges if you’re an Asiana Club Diamond Plus or Platinum member for both award bookings  and upgrades.

Asiana Airlines charges 50% additional miles for flights during high season, so you’ll absolutely want to avoid flying during popular times. Here is the peak season chart for 2024:

Off-peak dates are every other date not listed.

The award chart for Asiana Airlines flights is as follows for round-trip flights:

For example, let’s say you want to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Sydney (SYD) via Seoul (ICN) on Asiana Airlines, using Asiana Club miles, departing on July 3, 2024, and returning on August 20, 2024. The first segment is during the peak season, while the returning segment is during the off-peak season.

Furthermore, these flights have Business Smartium Class installed, which is Asiana’s best long-haul business class seat. This means that you’ll pay 150,000 miles plus 100,000 miles for the returning flight during off-peak season. You’ll definitely want to be careful to avoid peak season if you can since a 50% price hike is huge.

Bottom Line: Asiana Airlines raises prices for peak season award tickets by 50% across the board. Therefore, if flying on Asiana Airlines while redeeming Asiana Airlines miles, you should book off-peak tickets when you can. 

British Airways has previously employed a distance-based award chart with multiple zone brackets. In addition, there’s off-peak and peak pricing. British Airways also has had multiple award charts, but British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus were the only airlines eligible for off-peak pricing.

While award rate charts for 2024 have not been made publicly available , according to Head for Points , British Airways’ peak and off-peak dates for 2024 are as follows:

Off-Peak Dates:

• January 8 – February 8, 2024
• February 13-14, 2024
• February 20 – March 14, 2024
• March 16-28, 2024
• April 2-3, 2024
• April 9, 2024
• April 15 – May 3, 2024
• May 7-24, 2024
• May 28, 2024
• June 3-7, 2024
• June 10-14, 2024
• June 17-21, 2024
• June 24-28, 2024
• July 1-5, 2024
• July 8-9, 2024
• July 16, 2024
• July 23. 2024
• July 30, 2024
• August 6, 2024
• August 13, 2024
• August 20, 2024
• August 27, 2024
• September 9-13, 2024
• September 16-20, 2024
• September 23-27, 2024
• September 30 – October 25, 2024
• October 29, 2024
• November 4 – December 6, 2024
• December 9-13, 2024
• December 26, 2024

If your travel dates fall outside of these dates, your award ticket will be priced as a peak flight.

British Airways’ peak and off-peak calendars have consisted of wide bands, but they also contained multiple single-date occurrences for off-peak dates. Once you’ve identified the seasonality of your travel dates, you’ll want to figure out how much your flight will cost, which has historically been distance-based. Great Circle Mapper is a valid resource to gauge your flight distance.

Hot Tip: See our guides on the top ways to earn lots of British Airways Avios , and then make sure you’re redeeming them for the best value possible !

Iberia is Spain’s flag carrier. The airline happens to be owned by the same company that owns British Airways and Aer Lingus (discussed in earlier sections of this guide), but interestingly, the peak and off-peak calendars haven’t matched those when using Avios from different frequent flyer programs.

Additionally, Iberia has used peak and off-peak dates for flights on Iberia, Iberia Express, and Iberia Regional/Air Nostrum. For all other airlines, a different award chart will apply and seasonality is not used.

Award rates and eligible peak/off-peak dates for 2024 have not been made publicly available yet.

Just like its main competitor airline Asiana Airlines, Korean Air uses peak and off-peak pricing. Korean Air SKYPASS is a fantastic program to redeem miles on , with plenty of options ranging from Korean Air first class to Etihad first class .

Although there aren’t very many ways to accrue Korean Air miles from transferable points, there are still great ways to earn lots of Korean Air SKYPASS miles .

Korean Air employs a region-based award chart. Also, one-way flight redemptions are only allowed on Korean Air. For all partners, you must book round-trip if you want to use miles.

Hot Tip: Korean Air is one of the few airlines that still operate the A380. Check out our review of Korean Air’s A380 first class .

To determine whether or not your flights fall into peak season, you’ll need to know the route and the travel dates. Peak dates for Korean Air are:

Korean Air’s round-trip award chart is as follows (one-way awards are half the price):

*Direct flights only

If flying from New York (JFK) to Seoul (ICN) on Korean Air first class on December 17, 2024, your flight will fall into peak season. For this, you’ll pay 120,000 Korean Air miles one-way compared to 80,000 Korean Air miles for off-peak travel.

Virgin Atlantic employs standard and peak seasons for Virgin Atlantic flights only, so they are not applicable to airlines like All Nippon Airways. Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic splits up seasonality calendars between Caribbean routes and all others.

For Caribbean routes, the standard (off-peak) season consists of the following date ranges:

• March 4-21, 2024
• April 16 – May 26, 2024
• June 3 – July 19, 2024
• September 3 – October 24, 2024
• November 6 – December 6, 2024

On the other hand, Caribbean peak dates are on all other dates.

The rest of Virgin Atlantic flights follow these standard dates:

• January 4 – March 21, 2024
• April 16 – June 15, 2024

All other dates are peak dates for non-Caribbean flights.

Flights on Virgin Atlantic can be significantly cheaper if planned during standard dates. Here’s the Virgin Atlantic award chart for round-trip, standard season bookings:

And here’s the Virgin Atlantic award chart for round-trip peak season bookings:

Let’s take an example flight from London (LHR) to Las Vegas (LAS), which is on the U.S. West Coast. If you book a flight during peak season in Upper Class , you’ll pay 77,500 miles, as opposed to the standard price of 67,500 miles.

Overall, there are a lot of airlines that have unique peak and off-peak season policies. For the most part, airlines tend to limit the price variation from seasonality to their own airlines. For example, Asiana Airlines levies peak surcharges only on flights operated by Asiana and not on any other carriers.

An exception to this would be American Airlines AAdvantage , which makes off-peak pricing in economy available on partner airlines such as British Airways.

Keeping track of peak dates and booking travel flexibly to avoid peak season is a recipe for conserving your hard-earned points and miles. As a result, you’ll want to confirm that you’re getting the best value redemption prior to committing to a flight.

Now, you have a one-stop shop for a guide on the airlines that carry peak and off-peak policies for award bookings. Happy booking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is off-peak for flights.

Off-peak travel times vary by airline, route, and dates. Each airline has defined separate date ranges for off-peak seasons where a flight will cost fewer miles.

What is off-peak travel?

Off-peak travel is defined as traveling at a time where there is less than maximum demand. Some off-peak travel ideas would be to fly to Europe during the winter months of January through March.

What is peak travel?

Peak travel is defined as the period of travel in which there is maximum demand. You’ll often see large crowds, expensive hotel prices, and more expensive airplane tickets.

Is off-peak cheaper than peak?

Off-peak is almost always cheaper than peak travel. Because airlines don’t expect to sell out their seats, they release “cheaper” seats that you can use miles for. Also, the mileage price is cheaper during off-peak compared to peak. The exact discount varies from airline to airline, so you’ll need to reference one of the airlines above to figure out how much cheaper it is to travel during peak dates with points.

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About Stephen Au

Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used by hundreds of clients.

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The experts: travel agents on 20 ways to book a sustainable and sensational summer holiday

Keen to get away? Here is how to find a great deal, pick the perfect destination and support the local community

A holiday should be relaxing, but booking one can be a fraught experience, with days lost to endless scrolling, comparing reviews and prices. How can you be sure you are getting a good deal? Travel agents share their tips for the most affordable, sustainable and memorable trips.

1. Book like an agent

“Everybody views themselves as a travel agent and they can be up to a point,” says Paul Sharp from Newcastle upon Tyne, who operates as part of the Travel Counsellors network and has 30 years’ experience in the industry. He says the rise of budget airlines and online booking have led to people feeling confident about organising trips themselves. What is the one thing we should know when doing so? “It is a false economy to book things separately because you have no protection,” Sharp says. He gives the example of someone planning a trip to South Africa to watch rugby, who booked flights with the airline and hotels directly and rugby tickets elsewhere. The game was cancelled but the flights and hotel were non-refundable. If they had been booked together, the trip would have been covered under package travel regulations. “Book with a company you trust and know – there are a lot of sites that crop up and you don’t really know their provenance,” he says.

2. Be an early bird

“Planning in advance is always going to be better value,” says Helen Youngman , an independent travel agent and partner at 360 Private Travel , based near Norwich. “Late deals do exist, but a lot of hotels use ‘dynamic pricing’, which means prices increase as availability goes down. Flights are only going to increase in price the closer you get to the departure date because the fuller the flight gets, the more expensive it will be.” Sharp adds: “Don’t hang on for a last-minute deal because you could end up disappointed. Scheduled flights tend to be available about 11 months in advance, so that is the best time to book. Also, at that stage, a lot of hotels and accommodation providers will have early-bird specials.”

3. If you do book late, be flexible

Jessica Bollinger, who works in the Bristol branch of Danish travel agent Kilroy , which specialises in youth and adventure holidays, agrees that late deals are now something of a myth. “They are not unheard of, but with a last-minute deal there are certain things you’re not going to get. So you have to be really open-minded as to where you’re going to go,” she says.

4. Avoid peak season

The cheapest time to travel is always outside the school holidays, says Youngman, with Christmas and new year the most expensive times. Can you get a good deal if you fly on Christmas or New Year’s Day itself? Sometimes, she says, “but a lot of people are catching on to that trick”. If you have to go in the school holidays, be open to going somewhere off the beaten track. “Being clever about destinations is a good plan,” says Youngman. “In Europe, look farther east at places such as Montenegro, Albania and Georgia. And Morocco is a good summer destination for families.”

5. Midweek can be more affordable

“Midweek can be cheaper, it just depends on availability,” says Youngman. “A Thursday to Monday trip is going to be slightly more expensive than Monday to Friday, but all travel fares are based on availability, so the further in advance you can book, the better.”

6. Take out travel insurance when you book

A lot of people sort out their insurance at the airport, says Sharp, but it is best to do it as soon as you have booked your trip. He says: “Travel insurance doesn’t just cover you if you lose a bag or are poorly while you are away. It also covers you should you need to cancel for an insurable reason before you travel.” This includes illness or a bereavement.

7. On solo trips, consider a group tour

If you are travelling alone, “pretty much anywhere is possible”, says Youngman. “Embarking on your first solo trip can be daunting, which is why small group tours are an amazing way to travel with like-minded people. Some companies I work with are doing specialist female-only tours with visits to female entrepreneurs, co-operatives, makers and bakers. Small group tours are great because they handle all the logistics, include really immersive experiences and are safe. They pick you up from the airport, and from that point onwards, you’re travelling with other people and you’ve got an expert guide.”

8. Have a daily budget

“We advise setting a daily limit for yourself while travelling and then multiplying that number by the days you are away to get the amount to save for your spending money,” says Bollinger. “When you work it out like this, it makes a lot more sense in people’s minds, especially young people who don’t have much budgeting experience. It also keeps you accountable to yourself, so you don’t blow everything right at the beginning and then have nothing left for the end.” To stick to a tight budget, she says: “Cook food as you go along and use public transport instead of tourist buses – this will really help you save money.”

9. Consider all-inclusive options

“If you are going to spend a lot of time eating and drinking in the hotel, I recommend upgrading to an all-inclusive option if possible,” says Youngman, “especially if you’d like a cocktail or two and you’re grazing throughout the day. Otherwise it can all add up and when you check out it costs a fortune.” With active holidays such as skiing or safaris, she adds: “If you have the option to choose an all-inclusive package that includes the activities, food and drink, that is usually a more cost-effective way of travelling. Because sometimes they will really sting you on the extras and it will be more expensive.”

10. Work your way around the world

“A working holiday is a great way to fund your trip,” says Bollinger, who helps people book travel to Australia, New Zealand and Canada by organising working holidays so they can extend their stay. “A lot of jobs will be hospitality-related, but if you go to a more rural spot you can do farm work, and if you have qualifications already, sometimes those can be used. Working holidays in Canada are often at ski resorts near Vancouver, so you get the added benefit of being in a beautiful place to take advantage of the winter sports.”

11. Travel as sustainably as possible

“You can get to most places in Europe by train , so if you are open to slowing down and having a more relaxed itinerary, not only are you travelling more sustainably, but you have more time to absorb the culture surrounding you,” says Youngman. “Be good to the environment you are travelling to see.” She stresses the importance of limiting flights as much as possible, especially internally, and avoiding indirect long-haul options. “We highly recommend ‘open-jaw flights’, which means you fly into one destination and out of another, to limit the number of flights,” says Bollinger. “We also promote travelling for longer in one destination as opposed to trying to go to many in a short time, and travelling overland when possible, instead of taking multiple flights.”

12. Offset carbon emissions with a reputable company

When considering carbon from flights, says Thomas Power of Pura Aventura , a B Corp sustainable travel company in Brighton: “Don’t believe the airline schemes, or anyone else who promises you absolution for a few quid. While 85% of offset schemes may be worthless, there are high-quality carbon credits starting at about £20 a tonne.” These can be bought to compensate for CO 2 emissions. Companies such as “ C Level ​ ​help you at least take positive action to balance your impact”, says Power.

13. Think of responsible travel as a ‘fair exchange’

When travelling, says Power, consider: “What are we giving and what are we receiving? Is it a fair exchange? Is somebody getting something in return for what I am receiving in this transaction?” This applies to everything from “taking a cruise to Venice and not giving anything to the city, to going camping in Sussex and getting a supermarket delivery to your tent instead of going to the village shop or buying eggs from the house down the road”. This concept of “fair exchange” can be beneficial for everyone, he says, by giving you access to unique experiences. “In terms of the economy, the less money that leaves the village, town or city, the better,” he says.

14. Embrace the great outdoors

If you camp out “you are closer to nature than any other accommodation option”, says Brodie Farrow, of the online camping and touring travel agent Pitchup . There are many benefits to this, she says: “It is really good for mental health. It is also a much more sustainable option: the carbon footprints of outdoor holidays tend to be much lower than hotel stays, as people travel by car rather than flying and it promotes local produce and low-impact activities such as hiking in the surrounding area. The accommodation or pitches are much less carbon intensive than hotels, too. And you have a positive impact on the community that you are visiting: camping attracts a higher number of customers at a lower cost than hotels do, which can help to underpin the viability of local facilities such as the shop, the bar and takeaway, and that benefits the wider community.”

15. If you are camping-phobic, glamp

“There really is something for everyone,” says Farrow. “You can get glamping accommodation with four-poster beds if you prefer camping in luxury, or you can go really wild and remote, with no facilities, out on your own and back to nature. I think you would be hard-pressed to say that there is nothing that appeals.” Although glamping has become a fairly pricey option, she says: “Some types are much cheaper than others. You can get some ‘pod-only’ camping accommodation, where you bring your own bedding, starting from £15 a night.”

16. If the weather is terrible …

… And you are under canvas, “try to keep your bedroom a wet-gear-free zone”, says Farrow. “Store and dry wet stuff in your porch area rather than in your bedroom compartment. Protect your equipment by putting it in plastic bags or dry bags. Don’t let anything touch your tent walls or you will have soggy socks.” For activities, she suggests, “swimming in the sea, because you are wet already, or going to the pub”. If you are disappointed by the weather on a non-camping holiday, “as annoying as it is, try to embrace it”, says Sharp. Many people come back from their holidays exhausted because they try to see and do everything when they’re away. Instead, he says: “Have a lie-in, ask local people which is the best restaurant for a long, lazy lunch and, most of all, relax and recharge your batteries – it’s a holiday after all.”

17. For best value destinations, try …

“Go for Belgrade over Berlin,” says Youngman. “It has an underground culture scene very similar to Berlin 20 years ago.” For backpackers, Bollinger suggests: “Some places in Central America can be really affordable. Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala are good options for someone wanting to think outside the box.” Sharp says there are more affordable options in “Cyprus, Bulgaria, Turkey and Egypt, compared with Spain and the Balearics, which are becoming increasingly expensive due to cost of living increases”. If you are looking for a staycation, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Cornwall are some of the most popular UK locations on Pitchup, says Farrow, which can inflate the price. Locations such as Pembrokeshire and the Isle of Wight are cheaper.

18. For a trip of a lifetime that doesn’t cost the earth …

“North Macedonia is just amazing,” says Youngman. “Ohrid has beautiful cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture , fantastic food and wine and you can visit the most biodiverse lake in Europe.” Farrow says: “I camped at the foot of Ben Nevis last year before hiking up it. The weather was terrible but it was worth it for the unreal views.” While Bollinger’s most memorable trip was “Interrailing in Europe and finding a way to do things on my own. It was before smartphones, so it was a very interesting experience and built up my confidence in travelling.”

19. If in doubt, follow local people

“Live like a local person by taking local buses and eating in local spots,” says Bollinger. “It is going to save you money, and will also let you experience life in a different way.” Power adds: “People want to go to Peru but they never come back talking about Machu Picchu, they come back talking about the people they met. Buy local and connections will happen for you. In the absence of interaction with your host community, the things you see are just wallpaper.”

20. And remember: you get what you pay for

“If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” says Sharp.

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10 Wrinkle-free Shirts to Pack for Your Spring Travels — Starting at $21 From Everlane to Madewell

Leave the iron at home because you can wear these sleek styles straight out of your suitcase.

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Nothing detracts from a good travel outfit quite like a tangle of wrinkles running across your shirt, but when you’re shoving clothing into packing cubes and aiming to squeeze as much into your suitcase as possible, it can be difficult to sidestep that reality while traveling. Well, unless you know what materials to look for, that is. 

This spring, we’re making sure that you can do away with wrinkles permanently while you’re on the go — and no, we don’t mean by turning to the questionable iron tucked into your hotel room closet. After scouring the internet for sleek styles made of materials that resist wrinkles like silk, polyester, lyocell, and wool, we’ve rounded up the 10 best wrinkle-free tops to pack while traveling, from brands like Madewell , Everlane , Vuori , and more. And with prices capping at $96, you can bid wrinkles adieu at any budget.

J.Ver Women’s Wrinkle-Free Dress Shirt

Sometimes, a simple button-down is all you need to feel sophisticated and well-dressed in a pinch, so this $25 top from Amazon is an excellent selection for work trips and even a nice dinner while remaining wrinkle-free. The blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex is the key for maintaining its uniform shape even after folding this shirt and tucking it away into your suitcase, and with 35 colors and patterns to choose from, don’t be surprised if you end up circling back to grab another shade later this season.

Shewin Women’s Casual Floral Print Blouse

Nothing says spring quite like a bold floral top, so it makes sense that this flowing bohemian-style blouse quickly became a best-seller at Amazon . The relaxed, comfortable fit is endlessly flattering, while loose sleeves won’t ever feel restrictive during sightseeing days and beyond. Plus, this shirt is so lightweight that it will hardly take up any space in your suitcase, and with a wrinkle-free finish, you don’t have to worry about looking disheveled or messy — even when you are getting dressed in a rush. 

Everlane The Mini Jacquard Stripe Top

Earthy tones are forever a classic regardless of the season, so if it’s a flattering tee that you’re on the hunt for, this brown striped top from Everlane will fit the bill. Featuring a boxy, slightly oversized silhouette, this relaxed-fitting top will look great paired with anything from a maxi skirt to a simple pair of slouchy jeans. Versatile and wrinkle-free? You won’t find many shirts better than that.

Madewell Long-Sleeve Popover Top

Anyone who thinks that a simple white blouse is boring clearly hasn’t laid their eyes on this ethereal top from Madewell that’s easily dressed up or down for any occasion that might arise during your travels. Currently double discounted to just $56 the code FORYOU , this top is practically begging to be added to your closet for spring, so you never have to worry about packing a portable steamer or using the hotel iron again. 

And if you’re feeling in the mood to splurge on a lookalike style, the Aday Slim Something Borrowed Shirt is designed with a similar feel, but it features a stretchy and breathable material that was specifically created not to wrinkle.

Babaton Utility Shirt

Multi-purpose layers are a cornerstone of spring travel style, and this casual utility shirt from Aritzia is a top pick for this role. Not only can this shirt be buttoned up and tucked into a pair of trousers, but it can also be worn loose and unbuttoned over a plain white tee for a day of sightseeing in fluctuating temperatures. The army green shade is perfect for transitioning from winter to spring weather, but if your wardrobe is calling for something different, don’t worry — there are 20 other colors to choose from. 

The Group by Babaton Destination Longsleeve

It’s always a good idea to invest in elevated basics, and this well-made long sleeved top from Aritzia is the perfect base layer for any outfit you put together this spring. The slim-fitting crew neck cut captures a classic style that’s universally flattering, while lyocell fabric resists wrinkles for a refined look every time you slip it on. Best of all, it’s ultra-soft and cozy, so if you’re looking to level-up your travel day style, this top is a great place to start.

Abercrombie The A&F Mara Denim Vest

Abercrombie & Fitch

t’s no secret that denim doesn’t wrinkle, so if you’re hoping to add fun flair to your spring outfit lineup, why not start with this sleek and fun twist on the menswear trend ? This button-down top is currently available in three shades (traditional denim, black, and cream), but all are versatile and endlessly cool when paired with a matching bottom, flowy skirt, or trousers. In short, the outfit possibilities are endless with this wrinkle-proof vest.

Abercrombie Merino Wool-Blend Slash Top

Wool is a reliable material to look out for if you’re aiming to reduce your collection of wrinkly clothing, and there’s no better top to shop for brisk spring days than this effortless merino wool-blend piece from Abercrombie that’s currently on sale for just $49. The delicate, lace-like pattern adorning the entirety of the sweater adds a touch of femininity to any outfit, while the fuzzy texture will feel gentle against the skin — even after a full day of wearing it. Not to mention that the neutral shade will pair easily with even your boldest bottoms, making this a more stylish neutral piece than a simple plain tee.

Madewell Silk Muscle Tee

Short-sleeve weather is right around the corner, and this silk muscle tee from Madewell is a great pick for showing off your arms without needing to wear anything too tight while you’re on the go. Right now, the three available shades are on sale for just $75, and the relaxed fit of this top is practically made for long travel days when you want to look put-together without sacrificing comfort. The fact that it doesn’t wrinkle is just icing on the cake. 

Vuori Long Sleeve Halo Crew

We can’t blame you if your go-to travel outfit is an oversized sweatshirt and leggings, but may we suggest a slight elevation to this look in the form of this stylish crew neck from Vuori? The ultra-stretchy and breathable material is ideal regardless of the temperature that you’re traveling in, while a cropped fit is slightly more flattering than your typical sweatshirt. It’s safe to say that this top brings all the comfort of a hoodie but with the style of a typical shirt, landing in the perfect spot between loungewear and your new go-to sightseeing outfit. 

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