The Ultimate Guide to Travel Budgeting: Embrace the Shoulder Season for Affordable Adventures
By Chelsea evans
The Importance of the Shoulder Season
Summertime is when you’re eager to go on a vacay. You’ve planned for sunny skies, lively attractions, and bustling streets. We like to call this time of the year the peak season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
When planning a vacation, most travelers tend to gravitate toward the peak season, enticed by the allure of sun, food, fun, and relaxation. However, there's an unsung hero in the travel world known as the shoulder season, that magical time between the peak and off-peak seasons. Shoulder season — usually in the spring or fall — offers countless advantages that can make your trip even more enjoyable and unforgettable. Here’s why it's worth considering, and we’ll provide you with some fantastic destinations that truly shine during this under-appreciated time of year.
Why Consider the Shoulder Season?
Shoulder season is a time when tourist numbers are lower and weather conditions can vary. Typically, shoulder season falls during the transitional months when schools are in session, and the weather may be slightly less predictable.
However, the best part of the shoulder season is that while crowds thin out, attractions, accommodations, and activities are still open and ready to welcome you! This sweet spot is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a more authentic experience and immerse yourself in local culture.
If I’m being honest, I never considered the shoulder season when it came to my vacations. It wasn’t until I took a quick birthday trip in April to Reno, Nev. Now, I won’t lie and say that it wasn’t chilly in the city, but my flight and accommodations made it worthwhile.
The casinos I frequented while there were also top-tier. I was able to spend my coins at the Roulette table without having to move due to other people wanting to be at the table. It made my birthday vacation one to remember.
You may ask what are the advantages of traveling during the shoulder season? Well, I’m glad that you’ve asked because you’ve landed in the right place!
FEWER CROWDS
Fewer crowds means more authentic experiences: You can embrace the freedom of exploring renowned landmarks and hidden gems without jostling through crowds. Local experiences become more authentic as you interact with locals who have more time to connect with you. It also eases the tension of dealing with other travelers and the nuances that come with it.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY TRAVEL
You can say goodbye to the inflated prices for flights and accommodations during peak periods. Shoulder season often boasts lower costs, making it the perfect time to travel on a budget. A helpful tip is to set up a price tracker tool. It can be invaluable as you search for shoulder season bargains. Google Flights has a feature that will show you whether the price for your flight is within your budget by showing prices, from high to low, during a range of months. If prices are too high, you can opt to get email updates when prices change for your searched dates. This will significantly help you to stay within budget. Other tools include Hopper and Kayak.
BETTER SERVICE
With fewer visitors, you’re more likely to get better service at hotels, restaurants, and tour operators that can provide more personalized and attentive service. Wouldn’t you love to be treated like a VIP when you travel to different destinations?
BREATHTAKING SCENERY
My favorite times of the year are fall and spring because of the different changes in the atmosphere. I look at these two seasons as a chance to reflect, grow, and revive. If you’re anything like me, then it’s the perfect time to witness stunning natural landscapes as foliage changes during autumn and the spring blooms begin to emerge.
TOP SHOULDER SEASON DESTINATIONS
The next thing you may ask yourself is where to begin the search for travel destinations during the affordable shoulder season. I’ve done the heavy lift of researching these places so you don’t have to!
SANTORINI, GREECE (In The Spring)
Discover the charm of this iconic Greek island without the hordes of tourists. Spring brings blooming flowers, comfortable temperatures, and a more intimate experience with the locals.
Santorini, Greece during Shoulder Season.
KYOTO, JAPAN (In The Fall)
The colorful autumn foliage adds a magical touch to Kyoto's already enchanting atmosphere. Stroll through serene gardens and historic temples in tranquility.
Kyoto, Japan during Shoulder Season.
NEW YORK CITY (Late Summer or Early Fall)
Experience the Big Apple with milder weather, Central Park's stunning foliage, iconic landmarks, and cultural events.
New York City during Shoulder Season.
BALI, INDONESIA (April - May or September - October)
Enjoy idyllic beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture during the island's shoulder season.
Bali, Indonesia during Shoulder Season.
PATAGONIA, CHILE, or ARGENTINA (Spring or Fall)
South America’s seasons are flipped — the summer peak season is January-March; winter is May-October. The best time to visit off-peak is November, along with late March-April. Witness the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia without the summertime crowds and temperatures. Spring brings blooming flowers, while fall offers stunning autumn colors.
Patagonia, Chile during Shoulder Season.
Don't let the shoulder season go unnoticed on your travel radar this year. Embrace this off-peak time for memorable adventures, incredible savings, and the opportunity to connect with the essence of your chosen destination. Whether you're seeking a serene escape or an authentic cultural experience, the shoulder season is the perfect time to wander and wonder. So pack your bags, embrace the beauty of the in-between, and embark on unforgettable journeys during this magical and wallet-friendly time of the year. Happy travels!