Post-pandemic, international travel is again reaching record numbers — yet many travelers are still keeping a close eye on their budgets. In fact, once flights, hotels, and spending money are factored in, some travelers are deciding to turn their well-deserved annual vacations into just a quick weekend trip.
But rather than cutting your trip short, why not look at traveling somewhere during a less popular time of the year? Off-season trips often mean cheaper flights, better hotel deals, and fewer crowds — and even if the weather doesn’t fully cooperate, you’ll still have more time to be flexible with plans and enjoy the destination at your leisure.
Here are six destinations where that trade-off might be worth it, regardless of how the weather plays out:
Iceland
Bundling up for the cold, wintry weather is part of the Icelandic experience, so why not head there during peak wintertime? Only having a few hours of sunlight (or even none at all) won’t bother you much while you’re on vacation — especially if you’re relaxing in a geothermal spa, ducking into a cozy café, or heading out at night when the northern lights are at their most visible — peak viewing season is between late September and early April.
Some flights to Iceland operate on a reduced schedule between November and March, yet it remains well connected to the rest of Europe and airfare is often cheaper. And if you happen to be in Reykjavik for New Year’s Eve, you’ll find the whole city facing the elements head-on, with the help of fireworks and champagne in hand — it might just be one of the coldest, yet liveliest ways to kick off the new year.
Greece
It’s no secret that the Greek islands are filled to the brim with international visitors during the summer months. But given its southern European location on the Mediterranean that stays relatively warm late into the fall, a shoulder season trip to Naxos, Milos or Santorini might be your best approach.
Inter-island ferries still run late into the season, hotel prices are reduced, and you’ll find the locals that linger are in a much more laid-back mood now that most of the tourists are gone. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the tasty in-season dishes — fresh olives straight from the harvest, juicy fall pomegranates, and plates of hearty moussaka or braised lamb which are perfect for slightly cooler evenings.
You may have to pack a light jacket, but you’re still bound to find plenty of sunny days to enjoy the beaches and open-air terraces on the islands. And without the summer surge of tourists, your entire trip will come at a fraction of the usual price.
Mexico
Most people wouldn’t think to plan a trip to Mexico during the summer months due to a higher chance of rain, the threat of hurricane season, and simply because for most Americans or Canadians, a tropical escape isn’t as desirable in July as it is in the middle of January. But for some travelers, a lounge chair on the beach is appealing no matter what month it is — even if they have to hide from an afternoon storm or two.
In the Mexican tourism off season, which generally runs between May and September, airfares and hotel prices drop — but you’ll get the same access to beachfront resort amenities, just with fewer other visitors. Because of this, you might find yourself with an entire white sand beach to claim to yourself, or befriend the bartender who now has time to chat and remember your favorite drink.
Not to mention, Mexico is a massive country with tons to offer. So even if you aren’t interested in heading to the potentially overcast beaches of Cancun or Puerto Vallarta, inland destinations like Mexico City and Oaxaca offer plenty to do, rain or shine.
Japan
While Japan might be best known for its springtime blossoms or for its world-class skiing during the winter months, it’s truly a destination that offers something special all twelve months of the year.
Visiting Tokyo in July or August might mean that a piping hot bowl of ramen is slightly less appealing, but you’ll be able to explore the city’s main attractions and navigate the subway with fewer crowds and shorter lines. Many travelers also forget that Japan offers plenty of stunning seaside destinations, so if you’re interested in mixing a city break alongside a few days of sun and sand, adding the tropical-looking waters of Okinawa is a great move.
And don’t overlook the beauty of Japan’s fall foliage. The country is covered in stunning shades of red and gold throughout October and November, and while it draws fewer international visitors than the cherry blossom festivals, the scenery is every bit as gorgeous.
Thailand
Thailand’s rainy season generally runs from May through October, but the country is so varied — from busy Bangkok to the hills of Chiang Mai to the beaches of Phuket — that you’re almost guaranteed a few days of good weather during your trip at some point. Plus, a little rain is often easier to handle than visiting during the burning season up north, which affects the air quality and can be hard to escape.
The rainy season also keeps prices for flights and hotels low, making it easier to stretch your budget and stay a little longer. And when an afternoon storm does roll in, many pass quickly — and if not, consider that tropical downpour a perfect excuse to explore a local market and sit down with a bowl of khao soi, which somehow tastes even better on a cool, rainy day.
South Africa
Since South Africa is at least a 10+ hour flight for many travelers, peak-season prices can make the entire trip feel out of reach. But visiting in the shoulder months — April to June or September to November — not only cuts flight and hotel costs down, but it also makes it easier to justify staying longer, which is especially valuable given how much of a trek it is to arrive in the first place.
The country’s wine regions pour year-round, and Cape Town’s moody winter skies can make the Table Mountain backdrop even more striking. The shoulder seasons also line up with whale-watching along the coast — an experience you won’t get in the middle of January or February when most people visit. Pair that with smaller crowds, and the slightly less appealing weather trade-off actually starts to feel like an advantage.
Traveling during a destination’s off-season might mean taking a gamble on the weather, but it also guarantees lower prices, fewer crowds, and the chance to stretch your trip a little longer. These six destinations show how rewarding off-season travel can be — and with a bit of luck, you could still end up with plenty of sunshine during your trip.