Travel Hack: Best Destinations and Deals for Shoulder Season
What’s the secret to visiting popular destinations without the crowds, intense summer heat or high prices? Pick the right time to go.
Data from Flight Centre Canada shows that prices for the same trip are often between 30-50% less than when taken during a destination’s “shoulder season” compared to popular/peak travel times. With the fall shoulder season of October/November approaching in the next 2-3 months—the notable sweet spot prior to departure for when to find the best travel rates and airfares—Canadians should act now to get the best deals.
To help Canadians decide where to go, Flight Centre has rounded up a few top destinations where travellers can get the best bang for their buck:
- Europe: while tourists flock to the culture and history of European cities in the summertime, fall is an even more fabulous time to visit southern European countries like France, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Take a trip in October when there are fewer tourists, lower prices and the weather is still mild compared to Canada’s cold, rainy autumns.
- Asia: Peak tourism season in Thailand and Vietnam begins mid-December. Skip the lines and head over in November as these destinations are coming out of typhoon season. You’ll get much more relaxation with fewer tourists around, and temperatures will be cooler and dry.
- ABC islands: Head to the south Caribbean islands to avoid the crowds and storms this October. The Dutch-Caribbean ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao are all outside of the Caribbean hurricane belt, offering extremely friendly vacation destinations with some of the most beautiful beaches, without the ferocious winds and rain.
We thought you might be interested in a story about top destinations for shoulder travel vacations, or about how Canadians can get the most value out of their vacations by booking now through a trusted travel expert.
Nearly Half of Canadian Business Travellers Face Mounting Stress Levels in 2024
With rising travel costs and some airlines introducing surge pricing policies on checked baggage, and new paid seat options, Corporate Traveller Canada’s latest poll* paints a vivid picture of the strains facing Canadian business travellers today. Forty-five per cent of professionals identify schedule disruptions as their top source of anxiety, with 44% feeling the financial burden of rising travel expenses, and 42% experiencing stress due to economic uncertainty. These factors make it clear that the demands of business travel are weighing heavily on Canadian corporate flyers. At a time when business travel bookings have increased by 10% compared to last year, according to Corporate Traveller’s own tracking, this underscores a need for more streamlined, carry-on-focused travel tactics.
"Business travel today demands more than just showing up to meetings and networking; it's about optimizing every aspect of the trip," explains Chris Lynes, Managing Director for Corporate Traveller. "Adopting carry-on-only travel and choosing strategic flight times are effective ways to enhance airport experiences, ensuring both cost savings and reduced stress."
Essential tips for Canadian corporate travellers:
1. Maximize Your Carry-On: Get the most out of your carry-on by choosing airlines that allow up to 14 kg, with the option to add more if needed. Buying extra space online is cheaper than at the airport. Check size allowances beforehand; they vary but can save on check-in fees.
2. Choose Amenities-Rich Hotels: Pick accommodations offering comprehensive amenities like premium toiletries and gym facilities, which can significantly lighten packing lists.
3. Flight Strategy: Always aim to book direct flights when available to avoid unnecessary layovers and delays, advises Lynes. Direct flights help you reach your destination quicker, allowing for more time to prepare, relax, or engage in your intended business activities.
4. Scheduling Smart: Considering travel timing can make a world of difference. “Flying in on Sunday can introduce a blend of leisure and business, potentially cutting costs and easing Monday rush,” Lynes points out.
5. Lounge Access: Lynes suggests that a quality travel credit card offers more than points; look for one that includes airport lounge access, providing a sanctuary from crowded gate areas.
6. Loyalty Pays: Enroll in airline and hotel loyalty programs. Simple steps like inputting your member number can unlock future savings and enhance overall travel experiences.
7. Professional Insight: Don’t overlook the value of a seasoned travel expert. Corporate Traveller knows how to handle challenging travel needs of industries like manufacturing, mining, and construction, helping make trips more efficient and less expensive, focusing on what businesses need the most. As Canadian businesses adjust to new travel trends, using these tips can help save money and make trips more useful. For travellers, staying ahead means easier, less stressful travel ready to meet today's business needs.