Steeped in Savings: The Truth About Shoulder Season

The peak summer travel rush has ended, and most kids returned to school in early-mid August. But if you've been to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) recently, you’ve probably noticed it’s still quite busy.

Last year, a record 58.8 million passengers traveled through CLT, and even though fall is almost officially here, plenty of passengers are still in vacation mode.

Welcome to what’s known in the travel industry as “Shoulder Season!”

What is Shoulder Season?

Shoulder season is the time of year travel experts call the lull or dips (hence the phrase 'shoulder') between an area’s peak season, like summer's busiest months, and its low season. Expect fewer crowds, lower airfares, more affordable hotel rates and pleasant light sweater weather. These times can vary slightly depending on your destination.

In the U.S. (and across the Northern Hemisphere), shoulder season typically occurs in September, October and early November—before the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. March through May is also considered shoulder season, but spring break can lead to higher prices for warmer destinations.

In Europe, shoulder season usually shifts from mid-October to mid-December. (April and May might have lower prices, but the weather can still be cool and rainy.)

“We find travel calmer and quieter when kids are typically in school. We are traveling to Spain in September and Ireland next May,” said CLT traveler Beth Monaghan.

The Perks of Off-Peak Travel

“Shoulder season is a very smart and informed choice - it’s the most practical and honestly the most fun,” said Suzan Becker, a Charlotte-based travel agent and the owner of Shop France, Inc., who specializes in finding niche and unique experiences in France. “I almost don’t want the secret out now, or I will have a hard time getting hotel rooms!” she joked.

Traveler Elizabeth Warren of Charlotte says she always flies out of CLT with her sister-in-law and friends who enjoy shopping, sightseeing and soaking up the atmosphere. “We are very compatible traveling companions and have enjoyed annual trips to Paris and other fun places,” said Warren. “Once we went to Nice and Cannes in October and it was a wonderful time of the year with very few crowds and no lines.”

“I advise clients, however, to book early or as far in advance as you can after you’ve decided to travel because, nonetheless, the airlines have gotten very good at filling seats up,” added Becker. “Also, check to make sure no big events are happening at your destination. That will really drive up hotel prices.”

Shoulder season can be a sweet spot if you’re a traveler with more flexibility. You might also get a better sense of the authentic local vibe at your destination when it’s not crowded with tourists all waiting in line for the same attractions in the scorching heat.