Beat the holiday heat
An overseas summer holiday is a dream for many Aussie travellers. Eating al fresco at a charming trattoria on a balmy New York night or exploring Barcelona’s towering, Gothic architecture under a bright, blue sky. It’s hard to resist.
There’s a downside. Summer in many popular Northern Hemisphere destinations is peak season, which means higher prices for flights and accommodation, overcrowding and long queues. In recent years, extreme heatwaves and wildfires have also taken their toll on holidaymakers.
Sure, it’s nice to escape the Aussie winter for summer in Europe or North America, but a few days of 41 degrees Celsius weather will test even the most enthusiastic tourist. The good news? There are many benefits in travelling outside of peak season.
Shoulder season
The shoulder season is the period between the peak and off-peak travel seasons. It’s normally right before and after a destination’s peak season.
Roughly speaking, shoulder seasons are April to May and September to November in North America. In Europe, it’s April to May and September to October, while in Asia it’s March to May and September to November.
Off-peak season
This is the period of lowest tourism demand and typically coincides with the winter months (November to March) in North America, Europe and parts of Asia, or the height of summer in overseas desert destinations such as Las Vegas and Dubai.
Off-peak times usually mean less favourable weather, such as rain, snow, or extreme heat, but it depends on the location. For example, winter is the peak season for skiing destinations but for a beach location it’s summer.
Non-peak holiday benefits
There are numerous benefits in travelling during non-peak times. You’ll usually save on flights, accommodation, rental cars, tours and restaurants.
You may also see smaller crowds, so it’ll take less time to enter theme parks and museums. You won’t have to barge your way through sweaty travellers to get a close-up view of the Mona Lisa or Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz.
If you enjoy milder weather, then shoulder season is the way to go. Exploring the ancient ruins of Greece on a pleasant, 25 Celsius degree day sure beats being among fellow tourists when the mercury is pushing 40C.
You could also combine the milder weather with certain natural phenomena, such as the autumn foliage in New England and the Pacific Northwest in the US, or the cherry blossom season in Japan.
And if you’ve always wanted to see snow at Christmas, you’ll have your pick of Northern Hemisphere locations that’ll give you a strong chance.
With fewer crowds, you may meet a cheesemaker, artist or other interesting local who might even give you a private tour of their operations.
You’re also contributing to the tourist economies by spreading your dollar throughout the year and reducing pressure on the environment by curbing over tourism. Depending on where you are, you might also improve your chances of seeing local wildlife that’s more active in the milder weather.
What else should I know?
Of course, there are other factors to consider when you’re planning the timing of your holiday. And back to the topic of weather, you might find yourself affected by rain, wind, snow, or unseasonable heat, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Travelling in shoulder or off-peak season may mean having to pack heavier clothing and you’ll usually have less daylight for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Outside of peak season, transport options may be limited, and popular attractions, restaurants, shops and accommodation may even be closed. And if the buzz and energy of big crowds is part of the appeal for you, peak season is probably more your vibe.
The bottom line is to plan ahead and think about what you want from your holiday. If fewer people, milder weather and the chance to save some money appeal to you, consider travelling in the shoulder or off-peak seasons.
Need advice on the best time to travel?
An RAA travel agent can help plan your dream holiday.