I only travel off-season. There are many reasons for this, which of course I will get into but I think the biggest one of all is money. Off-season for my typically means I’m venturing off on my adventures in the spring or fall. If I’m really daring and the destination is right, it could also be the wintertime. However, our first trip to Chicago proved that if we are visiting a city for the first time, it’s best to visit when it’s at least above -40 degrees outside.
When I say off-season I really mean shoulder season. That perfect time between terrible or great weather, tons of crowds or none and high prices or deals. When I visited Croatia wayyyyy back in 2012, we travelled in November. Sure, the temperatures were a bit too cold for swimming or tanning but we got to see all of the major touristy sights with pretty much no one around. It was really incredible. In fact, I just realized every country I have travelled to in the past four years has never been during peak season.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing bad about travelling to a destination during peak season it’s just not for me. I’ve put together this post to hopefully convince you why all the reasons why you should be travel off-season. Just don’t share this with too many people, or off-season may just become peak season!
Saving money
Of course this is the main and key reason why people choose to travel during the off-season. When you want to travel as much as possible those dollars really add up so choosing destinations where and when your money goes the furthest is key. In countries where tourism is a big part of the economy, you’ll often find bigger discounts on a range of items. For the country you’re travelling to, it’s better to have someone pay a little bit less than normal than nothing at all. Take advantage.
The major money saver when it comes to travelling in the off-season I find are the hotel prices. You can find quite a few more hotel deals if you are willing to suffer from a little bit of colder or more unfavourable weather. When you’re travelling for more than just a quick weekend getaway the cost of accommodations can really start to add up.
Fewer crowds
This is my favourite perk when I travel off-season. I am definitely not a fan of crowds or lines. I can think of nothing worse than being stuck in the blazing sun with a load of tourist pushing and shoving each other trying to get the best photo of whatever monument or landmark they are there to see. Seriously, how are you supposed to get that perfect shot when there’s a million other people milling about?
One of the best trips I had was in Croatia. We had to wear sweaters and pants most days but we had almost every spot open just for us. I only wish I had of liked photography back then as much as I do now because I could have gotten some unreal photos!
Better treatment
When you travel off-season and there are no crowds, vendors are more willing to accommodate for you. Whether its staff in your hotel or a tour group, no doubt you will receive more personalized attention than if you were to travel during the busy season. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been poured an extra glass of wine (or at the very least larger servings), or given a free appetizer here or there because it wasn’t busy.
This past winter Ben and I travelled to Viamede Resort (seriously a must-see) and we ate at their on-location restaurant, Mount Julian. It was the dead of winter and the hotel wasn’t too busy, nor was the restaurant. We were dining on a 7-course meal and because they had left over food we got TWO extra courses each!
The weather isn’t all bad
You may disagree with me but I am really not a summer person. Queue gasp. I hate being sweaty and hot and sticky. When you’re in a new city with a load of tourists pushing and shoving, agitated from the heat, you get a mix for disaster.
While you do have to suffer the odd day of bad weather here and there, travelling in the spring and fall can often be far more enjoyable. All it takes is a bit of pre-planning and an extra sweater or two and you’ll be just fine!
Do you travel off-season? I would love to hear your reasons why!
We like to travel off-season for the exact same reasons you do, but mostly to save money and avoid crowds … and crazy lines! I remember going to London over Easter one year, and while a lot of fun, we stood in line at each museum and church we wanted to see for AGES. Since then, I love to travel in February, March, and November to avoid summer crowds and spring breakers. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Yes! Totally agree Anna. March and November are definitely great months to travel. Where’s the best place you’ve been during April? We’re looking for a bit of inspiration.
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