Shoulder season is the period of time between a regions peak season and offseason. The definition of shoulder season varies by destination, but it typically means the months between the peak season, usually during the summer months, and the offseason in the winter. For example, if a places peak season is summer and its offseason is winter, then the shoulder season would be spring and fall. Alternatively, a place may experience peak travel during a holiday weekend, but demand will drop off the weekend before or after, and these times can also be considered shoulder season. Shoulder season months vary from region to region, but in the United States, it usually runs from April into May and again from early to mid-September into November. In Europe, the early spring and late autumn are most often considered the shoulder seasons, including March and April in the spring and late September through early November in autumn.

Traveling during shoulder season has its own perks for travelers, with many deals on airfares and hotels now available for some of the worlds most popular travel destinations. Here are some reasons why shoulder season is the best time to travel:

• Lower prices: Expect to pay lower prices than for peak season travel. Airfares averaged 23% cheaper when booked for shoulder season versus peak season travel.

• Fewer crowds: Shoulder season is less busy than peak season, so you wont compete as much for coveted reservations. With fewer people traveling, there will also be fewer crowds to contend with, so youll have easier access to some of the worlds most famous and popular attractions.

• Better weather: The shoulder season likely wont bring the sweltering heat or storms that come with a regions offseason.

• Less hassle: When you travel in shoulder season, youre less likely to encounter longer lines and big crowds at airports or attractions, and youll miss the worst of the worst when it comes to flight delays and cancellations.

In summary, shoulder season is the period between a regions peak season and offseason, and it varies by destination. Traveling during shoulder season has its own perks, including lower prices, fewer crowds, better weather, and less hassle.