Just because summer is ending doesn’t mean travel does.
Ever dreamed of having world-famous attractions almost entirely to yourself? Or paying half the price for like, flights, accommodation, excursions? Welcome to the wonderful world of off-season travel – the savvy traveler’s best-kept secret.
Now, I know some of us don’t have the luxury of time off or flexible plans, but here are some ways to hack the system.
3 Key Takeaways:
- 1) Off-season travel offers up to 50% savings on accommodations and experiences
- 2) Traveling during the shoulder seasons provides more authentic cultural immersion with locals
- 3) Off-peak travel contributes to sustainable tourism by reducing environmental impact and supporting year-round local economies
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Why Choose the Road Less Traveled (Seasonally Speaking)
Traveling during the shoulder or low season offers remarkable advantages that can transform your experience, connect you more with locals, and avoid throwing elbows in crowds of tourists. Now, it varies from location to location, with some destinations hardly having a low season, like Barcelona. But hear me out:
Significant cost savings
Your travel budget stretches much further when you visit destinations outside their peak periods. Accommodations, flights, and activities often come with substantial discounts, sometimes up to 50% off high-season rates.
A breath of fresh air (literally)
Imagine exploring the Louvre without shoulder-to-shoulder crowds or capturing that perfect Instagram shot without dozens of other tourists in the frame. Off-season travel means fewer visitors competing for the same experiences.
Authentic cultural immersion
When mass tourism subsides, you’ll have more meaningful interactions with locals and experience the destination’s genuine rhythm of life rather than its tourism-oriented facade. Book a culinary experience through Traveling Spoons and use my discount code EricaH10 for 10% off.
Prime reservations without the wait
That impossible-to-book restaurant or boutique hotel? Suddenly available. Low season means high availability for experiences that might be fully booked months in advance during peak times.
Unique seasonal magic
Each season brings its own special charm and experiences. From autumn festivals to spring blooms, off-season travel opens doors to seasonal events and natural phenomena that high-season travelers miss entirely.
Zadar, Croatia, in March — not a soul in sight.
The Responsible Side of Off-Season Travel
Beyond personal benefits, traveling in the low season contributes to more sustainable and responsible tourism:
Reduced environmental impact
Lower visitor numbers mean less strain on local resources, reduced waste generation, and lower carbon emissions from transportation services.
Economic distribution
Off-season visitors help create year-round economic stability for tourism-dependent communities, rather than concentrating income during a few peak months.
Cultural Preservation
Less crowding means less wear and tear on historical sites and natural attractions, helping preserve them for future generations. Often opening doors to more personalized experiences with guides and locals, making a much more memorable connection to the location.
7 Spectacular Off-Season Destinations Worth Considering
Ready to embrace off-season travel? Here are some destinations that truly shine when the crowds thin out:
Yucatan, Mexico (April-May)
Skip the spring break chaos in Playa del Carmen and explore magnificent cenotes, rent scooters on Cozumel, or visit the colonial charm of Merida. While you might encounter occasional showers or sargassum seaweed that reeks of stinky farts, the trade-off is worthwhile for the relative solitude and more authentic experience.
Greek Islands (February-May)
I typically live on the beautiful island of Santorini in the winter, while locals might consider 60°F/17°C “cold,” many visitors find it perfectly pleasant. Explore idyllic islands without the summer crowds and inflated prices. Though some establishments may be closed, this creates opportunities to discover hidden gems and connect with locals.
Paris, France (January)
Experience the City of Light during its most atmospheric month. Winter in Paris means shorter lines at major attractions, cozy café culture, and potential winter sales at its famous boutiques.
Southern Spain (February-March)
Enjoy mild winter temperatures perfect for exploring Andalusia’s architectural treasures without the scorching summer heat that regularly exceeds 100°F/38°C.
Albania (Mid-September to early October)
This emerging European destination offers stunning Albanian Alps and less crowded beaches during the shoulder season when temperatures remain pleasant but summer crowds have departed. Ask me about my Albanian Alps adventure and accommodation! Happy to help you plan.
Copenhagen, Denmark (February)
Embrace the Danish concept of “hygge” (coziness) during the winter months when this design-forward city feels authentically local.
Argentina & Uruguay (November)
Visit just before high season when temperatures are pleasant, crowds are thin, and last-minute accommodations remain available. Take day trips from Buenos Aires to Uruguay or enjoy bike rides through Mendoza’s vineyards in perfect weather.
PRO TIP: Fellow Americans—if you’re considering skipping Thanksgiving, international flights (not domestic) are surprisingly affordable during this time. I strongly recommend taking advantage of these deals while they last!
Santorini, Greece. No throwing elbows to get this photo — I was the only person in sight!
Tips for Successful Off-Season Adventures
Research thoroughly
Understand exactly what “off-season” means for your specific destination – what’s closed, what’s open, and what special experiences might be available only during this time. If you prefer to be a travel “prince or princess” and prefer to have others plan the logistics for you, I will happily be your fairy godmother of travel planning. Contact me to plan your next trip.
Pack strategically
Bring appropriate layers and gear for potentially variable weather conditions.
Build in flexibility
Have backup plans for outdoor activities in case of weather changes, and verify opening hours before visiting attractions.
Connect with locals
Residents often know the best off-season secrets that don’t appear in guidebooks.
Embracing off-season travel isn’t just about saving money – it’s about experiencing destinations in their most authentic state, contributing to sustainable tourism practices, and creating more meaningful connections with the places you visit.
Your dollars will make an impact when businesses might be slower.
When will you plan your first (or next) off-season adventure?
Let’s Connect
- Are you looking to elevate your travel or tourism brand? Or looking to get personalized travel planning assistance? I’d love to help you on your journey and create greater awareness of responsible travel!
- 📧 Email: Let’s chat about your travel goals – drop me a line
- 📱 Social Media: Follow along on Instagram @wanderwitheri for daily travel inspiration and tips