Shoulder season: The best time to travel and save

Do you love travelling? Most of us do. Except when we find ourselves swamped with tourists and exorbitant prices during the peak season at our destination. But you could avoid all that unnecessary stress entirely — by going during the off-season!

Here are some reasons why off-season travel deserves a spot in your itinerary.

A wallet-friendly alternative
One of the greatest perks of off-peak travel is cost savings. The prices of accommodations can be significantly lower compared to peak season rates. Airlines typically charge less for tickets while restaurants and tour operators even offer discounts to customers during the quieter months.

These savings also mean that you can splurge a little more on unique experiences, book a longer stay, or simply get more bang for your buck.

Enjoy local attractions at your own pace
Say goodbye to having to wrestle your way through a crowd of tourists just to snap a photo of a famous landmark. Off-season travel can help you experience your destination at a relaxed and more leisurely pace. Places of interest like museums, historical sites and popular attractions are often blissfully quiet, letting you take in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

You may even have time to chat with locals, who are more likely to engage and share their insider tips when they aren’t dealing with hordes of travellers.

Forming true connections with your destination
Off-season travel can often reveal a destination’s true personality. Cities feel more like themselves when they aren’t curated for tourists, and countryside areas settle back into the natural rhythm of local life. You’ll find your experience more authentic and your understanding of the culture richer than when you’re constantly scrambling to get to your next location.

Another unexpected joy of travelling during the off-peak period is the freedom that it offers. You’re no longer tied to competitive reservations or made to book activities way in advance. There’s a certain beauty in being spontaneous — being able to change plans on the go, discover hidden spots or even extend your stay if you feel like it. Less competition for spots means you’re in control of your experiences and opens a whole new world of possibilities.

Travel on your terms
You might face unpredictable weather conditions or find certain attractions closed during this time. But with careful planning and a little flexibility, you can make the most of it and still have an extraordinary experience.

Make your travels carefree when you’re safeguarded from unforeseen events with TravelSmart Premier — protecting you from flight delays, illness and more.