It’s always shoulder season somewhere. Off-season travel can be a wonderful experience for your family when tourist destinations quiet down and vacation deals are up for grabs. But is off season travel always a steal? Not really. From staring down the eye of a tropical storm to paying just slightly below premium prices, here’s when off-season budget travel is a bad idea.
When the Weather is Crazy Dangerous
This should go without saying, but not every family traveler really thinks about the consequences of hurricane season, heat waves and epic snow drifts. It’s not always necessary to avoid inclement weather, but you need to do some serious research in advance. Even if you’re pretty sure a hurricane won’t hit anywhere near you, don’t dismiss tropical storms that can be just as destructive as a hurricane. Even nonstop downpours and snow can make it impossible to get out of your hotel room and do much but use the indoor pool. If you decide to go for it anyway, make sure to invest in travel insurance that actually covers hurricanes and natural disasters. Many travelers find out too late that many policies do not.
When Everything is Abandoned for the Season
You found that amazing deal in a sleepy ski town in early fall or a beach in a cold-weather destination.The views might be spectacular, but the novelty will quickly wear thin if everything is closed down for the season. From ski towns to beach resorts, many off-season destinations slow down to a halt. Think your family can handle it anyway? Bring along lots of back-up, from games to puzzles to off-season activities like hiking or shelling on the beach.
Off-season beach. Photo: James Kirkikis | Dreamstime.com
When The Deal is Just Okay
Just because it’s shoulder season doesn’t mean you’re going to get the deal of a lifetime. Many popular off-season destinations manage to keep prices high by advertising special packages. They might also roll out special activities, like poolside movies, drive-ins and free food and drink, in an insanely hot off-season destination. But look closely and you may find the rate just isn’t that much different than right around peak season. Do your research and hold out for a deal that actually makes an impact on your bank account.
Off-season travel can be a slam dunk for frugal family travelers looking to see more of the world without the hefty price tag. But it can also lay the groundwork for the worst family vacation of a lifetime. Carefully weigh the pros and cons to your trip before booking, and remember to always have a plan B, from indoor play centers to hotel kids clubs while parents relax at the on-site restaurant. After all, if the kids are happy, the parents are happy.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 24, 2024Colorful Kids Programming Awaits at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Before the season is over, take your family travel to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Kids rule the world at the Flower Fields this spring and, with flowers officially in bloom, it creates the perfect rainbow backdrop for a family day out. Here are can’t-miss springtime activities and deals for children you won’t want to miss.
Sponsored Content
United Continues Its Global Expansion
United Airlines keeps soaring to new heights, recently announcing another expansion of its leading global route network. The airline added new non-stop flights between Newark (EWR) and Marrakesh (RAK), Morocco; Tokyo (NRT) and Cebu (CEB), Philippines; and Houston (IAH) and Medellin (MDE), Colombia. That’s not all: United also plans to increase flights to popular worldwide destinations including Hong Kong (HKG); Seoul (INC), South Korea; and Porto (OPO), Portugal. Following the recent agreement to increase flights between the U.S. and Chinese governments, the airline now adds four weekly flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Shanghai (PVG).
Parents
Apr 24, 2024Treat Mom to Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta
Are you planning family travel to Atlanta for Mother’s Day this year? For those in the area on May 11 and 12, celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta. Afternoon tea is a hallmark at the property and this year’s Mother’s Day version will honor Audrey Hepburn and her iconic role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024What’s New in Billings, Montana, This Spring and Summer
Plan your spring or summer family travel to Billings, Montana, this year. The largest city in the state offers plenty of family-friendly fun.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024Where to Tiptoe Through Tulips in the United States
First brought to the United States by Dutch immigrants in the late 1600s, tulips have become a colorful symbol of spring throughout the country and a popular spring and summer spot for family travelers. You don’t need to travel far to find them blooming in front yards and, in spring, displays of tulips paint parks and botanic gardens from Maine to Texas. A few places go all out with annual tulip festivals that are perfect spring trips for families.
ShareThis