There’s nothing quite like the excitement of planning a trip, whether it’s heading home to see loved ones, exploring a new city, or finally booking that beach getaway you’ve been saving for. But if you’ve ever landed in a destination only to find yourself stuck in endless lines, sweating through a heatwave, or paying triple the usual price for a hotel room, you know that excitement can fade in the face of reality.
At Remitly, we understand that your time and money are precious, and travel should feel rewarding, not stressful. That’s why we’ve created this guide to break down what “peak travel season” really means, explain why it’s not always the best option, and share some of the world’s most popular destinations along with the times when you might want to steer clear.
What does “travel seasons to avoid” really mean?
Travel isn’t just about where you go; it’s about when you go. And ultimately, that timing can make all the difference in your experience.
What counts as peak season
Peak season is when a destination is at its busiest, often thanks to school holidays, festivals, or great weather. Think Paris in July, Hawaii during Christmas break, or Disney World in the middle of summer. These times are popular for a reason, but popularity also means high demand, and everything that comes with it.
Why “shoulder season” is the sweet spot
Shoulder season is the happy middle ground between high season and off-season. During these months, you’ll usually find lower prices, fewer tourists, and still-good weather, if that’s what you’re looking for. A great example is Italy in September; the days are usually still warm, but there are fewer crowds at the museums, and your outdoor dining experience comes without the heat of July.
Off-season explained
Off-season is when a destination sees the fewest visitors, usually because of less-than-ideal weather. That might mean rain in Bali, chilly days in New York, or sweltering heat in Thailand. But it might also mean no snow in skiing destinations, for example.
Off-season often brings some of the best travel deals and a more authentic look at daily life, too. And even in those ski resorts, if you can’t hit the slopes in summer, you can go mountain-biking or hiking, and the countryside will still be spectacular.
Why peak season isn’t necessarily as great as it sounds
Peak travel season might sound like the best time to go for sunshine or great snow, for example. But the reality can be less than Instagram-worthy, and it’s not just about the weather; there are several reasons to rethink visiting those busy months.
The reality of overcrowded attractions
When a destination is in peak season, every attraction is packed. Museums, theme parks, beaches, you name it. What should be a magical experience can quickly turn into a waiting game. Instead of soaking in the moment, you’re stuck in line or fighting through crowds just to get a glimpse of the view.
How peak season eats into your budget
Traveling when everyone else does comes at a cost, literally. Airfares, hotels, and even local experiences like guided tours see major price hikes in peak season. For example, flights to Europe in July can be hundreds of dollars more expensive than the same routes in September. The same goes for resorts in Hawaii during the December holidays.
When the weather doesn’t match the hype
We’ve mentioned the weather quite a bit, because for many people it’s a big part of their vacation. But the fact is that peak season doesn’t always equal perfect weather.
Europe’s summers, for example, now often include uncomfortable heatwaves, while parts of Asia experience heavy rains during their busiest months. Even Disney parks in Florida are notorious for long, humid summer days that can make exploring feel like a workout.
Popular destinations and the seasons to skip
Every destination has a rhythm, with peaks and troughs of tourism. Understanding when to avoid certain places and when to go instead can make your trip infinitely smoother.
Bali: paradise that feels a little too crowded
Bali is breathtaking, but timing is everything. July and August are the island’s busiest months, with travelers flocking from Australia, Europe, and beyond. Add in the Christmas and New Year period, and you’ll find beaches that are shoulder-to-shoulder—well, towel to towel—sky-high resort prices, and traffic that makes getting anywhere a test of patience.
If you want Bali’s beauty without the stress, try May-June or September. You’ll still get sunny weather, but with a calmer vibe that lets you actually enjoy the island.
Europe: summer heat and endless lines
Europe in the summer sounds like a dream, but in practice, it can be overwhelming. From June to August, tourists pack every major city. Expect long waits at landmarks like the Colosseum in Rome, packed streets in Paris, and higher hotel prices everywhere.
A much better option is visiting in April and May or September and October, if you can. Spring brings blooming gardens and café culture, while fall is perfect for food festivals and smaller crowds.
Disneyland: magic meets marathon wait times
For families, Disneyland is pure magic, but not if you go during peak times. Summer, spring break, and the December holidays mean you’ll face multi-hour waits for rides and crowded parades that make it tough to move around. Hotels near the parks also fill up quickly and charge premium rates.
If you want a smoother experience, aim for weekdays in shoulder seasons. You’ll still get the magic of Disney, just without the chaos.
Japan: cherry blossoms and Golden Week chaos
Cherry blossom season is beautiful, but it’s also one of the busiest times of year in Japan. Late March through April brings huge crowds, packed trains, and hotels booked months in advance.
Golden Week in early May is another time when travel becomes stressful, since locals are also on holiday. If you want to experience Japan’s beauty without the rush, plan a fall trip in October or November. The autumnal colors rival the cherry blossoms, and the cooler weather makes exploring even more enjoyable.
Hawaii: beautiful but budget-busting
Hawaii’s beaches and laid-back vibe make it a dream destination. But traveling during December to January or June to August means fighting for hotel space and paying some of the year’s highest prices.
The islands are still gorgeous, but popular spots like Waikiki can feel more crowded than relaxing. For better balance, go April-May or from September to November. You’ll still get postcard-perfect weather, but with fewer crowds and more affordable pricing.
Cancun and Riviera Maya: spring break takeover
Cancun is famous for its turquoise waters and white sand beaches, but during Spring Break (March–April), it transforms into a party hub. Hotels raise prices, nightlife dominates the vibe, and beaches fill with loud, rowdy crowds.
If that’s not the trip you had in mind, aim for late April through early June or again in September. You’ll find the same stunning scenery without the chaos, and a better chance of getting resort deals.
New York City: holiday magic with holiday crowds
There’s nothing quite like New York in December, the lights, the tree at Rockefeller Center, the festive shop windows. But there’s also nothing like the crowds and sky-high prices.
If you want to experience the city without holiday stress, consider visiting from late January to March, when hotels are cheaper and tourist spots are quieter. Fall is another great time, offering mild weather, fall foliage in Central Park, and the Big Apple’s usual packed cultural calendar without the peak-season hassle.
Thailand: hot, busy, and booked solid
Thailand’s temples, beaches, and street food make it an unforgettable destination. But December to February is peak season, and you’ll find busy tourist sites, crowded beaches, and higher prices. April’s Songkran Festival is certainly worth seeing once, but it brings extreme heat that can make sightseeing tough.
For a calmer experience, visit from May to June or September to October. The weather can be a bit more unpredictable, but you’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace and much better deals.
How to plan around peak seasons
Avoiding peak season doesn’t mean giving up your dream trip. With some smart planning, you can travel when destinations are at their best.
Let apps do the work for you
Apps like Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner are your best friends when it comes to finding affordable flights. Many will even send alerts when prices drop. For understanding how busy a destination might be, TripAdvisor and even Google Maps (which shows live “popular times” for attractions) can give you a heads-up before you book.
Travel during the “in-between” months
If you’re able to be flexible, aim for shoulder months like April to May or September to October. These months often mean decent weather but fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations. Plus, you’ll often find special cultural events like harvest festivals or spring parades that you’d miss during peak season.
Don’t forget local holidays and festivals
One of the most common mistakes travelers make is forgetting to look up local calendars. You might think you’re traveling off-peak, only to discover your trip overlaps with a major holiday, like Semana Santa in Andalusia, Day of the Dead in Mexico, or Oktoberfest in Munich. A quick check of local events can save you a big headache.
Plan ahead, but leave room for surprises
For popular destinations, booking flights and accommodations six to 12 months in advance can secure better prices. But leave some flexibility in your itinerary too, if you can. That way, if you discover a local festival or event you want to join—or avoid, if it’s not your thing—you can adjust your schedule.
Why off-season travel might be your best move
Traveling off-season may sound risky, but it often leads to the most memorable adventures. Think of it as trading postcard perfection for something a little more real, and often, more rewarding.
The joy of having space to yourself
When there are fewer tourists, you’ll have more opportunities to connect with locals. Restaurants aren’t rushed, markets feel more welcoming, and you’ll get a better sense of everyday life. Instead of feeling like one of thousands of tourists, you’ll feel like you’re part of the rhythm of the place.
How lower prices can upgrade your trip
One of the biggest perks of off-season travel is the cost savings. Hotels often offer promotions, flights drop in price, and tours may give discounts to attract visitors. That extra wiggle room in your budget could mean splurging on a nicer hotel, enjoying a special meal, or even staying longer.
Seasonal quirks that make memories
Off-season often means unique experiences you won’t get when the location is swarmed with tourists. Picture wandering through Tokyo’s snowy temples in January, exploring Arizona’s desert trails in the quiet of summer, or enjoying Paris without the endless crowds. These moments may not look like the glossy brochures, but they often feel more personal and unforgettable.
When I visited Rome in February, I expected quiet streets but maybe dreary weather. What I got instead was blue skies, empty piazzas, and the chance to walk straight into the Vatican Museums, something that would’ve taken hours in July. Off-season turned what could’ve been a rushed checklist into one of the most relaxed and memorable trips I’ve ever had. I’d certainly recommend low-season travel to Rome.
Rethinking what “ideal” really means
Peak season sells the idea of “perfect” weather and experiences, but sometimes “perfect” is found in the unknown. Off-season gives you space, calm, and often the most genuine version of a destination. If your goal is connection, discovery, and making the most of your money, it might just be the best time to travel.
FAQs
Why should I avoid traveling during peak season?
Peak season often brings bigger crowds, higher costs, and weather challenges, making trips more stressful than enjoyable.
What are some examples of peak travel seasons?
Examples include summer in Europe (June–August), Cancun during Spring Break (March–April), and Japan’s cherry blossom season (March–April).
What is the shoulder season for travel?
The shoulder season is the period between peak and off-season, offering moderate crowds, lower prices, and often still-good weather.
What tools can I use to find the best travel seasons?
Tools like Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner track airfare trends, while TripAdvisor helps you see when destinations are busiest.
Can off-season travel still be enjoyable?
Absolutely. Off-season often means fewer crowds, better deals, and unique experiences you wouldn’t get during peak season.