Shoulder season travel
The shoulder season sits between the busiest (peak) and quietest (low) seasons. It is often the best value time to travel.
Why it is cheaper
Hotels and airlines price by demand. Just outside the peak months, demand falls faster than the weather gets worse, so prices drop while conditions are still good.
Typical shoulder months
- Europe: April to May and September to October.
- Japan and Korea: late May to June and late November.
- Southeast Asia: the weeks around the start or end of the rainy season, which differ by country.
Each city cost page lists the best months and when prices fall.
Watch out for
- Local holidays and festivals, which can push prices up even in the off-season.
- Shorter opening hours for some attractions.
- Weather risks, such as typhoon or monsoon season, in some regions. Check a reliable weather source for your dates.