New England Travel Secret: Book Your Trip for Shoulder Season

For many travelers, the dream vacation often revolves around peak seasons: the sun-drenched days of summer in Europe, the snowy slopes of winter in the Rockies, or the vibrant blooms of spring in Japan.

But seasoned travelers know there’s an underrated, cost-effective, and often less crowded alternative—the shoulder season.  If you are a savvy traveler then you know to be flexible.

Falling between the high and low tourist seasons, shoulder season offers a window of opportunity to enjoy milder weather, fewer tourists, and better deals without sacrificing the experience.

Have you ever been to Europe in July?  It’s hot, crowded, and there are long lines everywhere you go, especially at the top destinations.

However, shoulder season gives you more accessibility to prime landmarks, and popular restaurants, not to mention an overall calmer setting.

So when is shoulder season?  It depends.

Europe’s hot times are in the summer and December, so the shoulder season is April – May, and September-October, but according to popsugar.com, Italy’s shoulder season continues well into November.

For travel to the Caribbean, try booking late spring and early fall, on either end of the busy winter travel season.  South America shoulder season is March – May, and October – November, but watch out for their rainy season.

So, if you are not tied to school schedules, nor blacked out work vacation dates, this could save you thousands in vacation costs.  The air and hotel deals are better, and so are the opportunities for upgrades, including tours.

You can get to Cinque Terre or Machu Picchu afterall, and within your budget.