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Why Should You Travel During Off-Season?
There are many perks to visiting a destination outside the typical tourist season. First, there are fewer crowds, which allows employees to provide better service. Secondly, you’re likely to see lower costs on accommodations and attractions.
What is ‘shoulder season’?
Shoulder season in travel terms is the time of year when it’s not as busy, but the climate is still manageable. Weather, activities, and timing can all affect a region’s shoulder season. An example of a shoulder season for many areas in the US is late summer/early fall, just before school starts.
Italy (Early Spring or late fall)
What To Pack
Layers, and long sleeves with a light to medium jacket with a compact umbrella in case of light showers. It’s best to bring comfortable shoes for walking and gloves if your hands get cold often.
Where To Go
Early Spring
Venice: Ride a gondola down the canal while the sun sets over the water.
Amalfi Coast: Opening in late March, and offers unforgettable views.
Tuscany Countryside: Enjoy a wine tasting overlooking the hills.
Late Fall
Rome Colosseum: Enjoy the Colosseum and the Vatican Museum with fewer crowds.
Florence: Art museums and a cozy cafe are full of life around this time of year.
Naples & Pompeii: Day tour from Naples to Pompeii with hotel/train station pickup.
Greece (March–April OR October–November)
What To Pack
It’s always best to bring comfortable shoes for walking. Expect warm days and cool evenings with occasional showers, so layers are recommended.
Where To Go
March-April
Santorini and Mykonos: Enjoy a day cruise with beautiful weather.
Rhodes: Historical sites and coastal walks are pleasant as temperatures rise.
Thessaloniki: A vibrant city rich in history and lively food culture.
October-November
Athens: Mild weather and fewer tourists on the ferry—perfect for the Acropolis, museums, and historic neighborhoods like Plaka.
Crete: open beaches, archaeological sites, and local festivals.
Peloponnese: Explore ancient Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio without the crowds.
Australia (March–May, September–November)
What To Pack
When packing for an off-season trip to Australia during March to May or September to November, it’s important to consider the variable weather and outdoor activities you might engage in.
Where To Go
March-May
Sydney: Spring is a great time to enjoy outdoor festivals such as the Sydney Fringe Festival.
Melbourne: Explore the city’s eclectic laneways, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, and enjoy events like the Melbourne International Arts Festival.
September-November
Margaret River (WA): Beautiful coastal scenery and wine region vibes with fewer crowds.
Tasmania: Cooler temps and vibrant fall foliage in places like Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park.
Japan (Winter: December to February)
What To Pack
Pack for cold weather, especially if visiting northern areas or mountainous regions. Comfortable waterproof boots with a good grip are ideal for walking on icy or wet streets.
Where To Go
For Skiing
Niseko (Hokkaido): Famous for deep powder snow and top-tier ski resorts.
Hakuba (Nagano): A former Winter Olympics site, great for skiing and snowboarding.
For Culture
Tokyo: Mild winter with illuminations, seasonal foods, and events like New Year’s celebrations.
Kanazawa: Historic districts and Kenrokuen Garden look stunning with light snow cover.
For Hot Springs
Jigokudani Monkey Park (Nagano): See snow monkeys soaking in natural hot springs.
Noboribetsu (Hokkaido): Known for mineral-rich waters and steamy winter landscapes.
Morocco (Summer: June to August)
What To Pack
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal to keep you cool in the heat. Comfortable sandals or breathable shoes are recommended for walking, along with sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun.
Where To Go
Costal
Tangier: A mix of Mediterranean flair and Moroccan culture, with cooler weather and rich literary history.
Agadir: A modern beach city ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and resort relaxation.
Cultural
Merzouga: For desert adventures, opt for sunrise or sunset camel rides and stay in air-conditioned desert camps.
Fez: Dive into its ancient labyrinthine medina, ideally with a guide and good timing to dodge the midday sun.
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