The secret to cheap travel: shoulder seasons

The schools are just about the break up for summer and everyone has one thing on their mind: summer holidays. If you're on a budget or just really can't stretch those pounds far enough to take the trip you really want, don't worry. Want to know the real secret to travelling for cheap?

Skip the peak season and travel in the shoulder seasons instead.

I know, I said it. Skip the summer holiday in Spain and go in autumn instead! 

The shoulder seasons come between the low tourist season and the peak tourist season. For many places that means spring and fall but has plenty of benefits. The beaches are less packed, the queues are shorter, tourist attractions are less crowded and let's face it... no one likes to wander the ancient sights of Athens in 38°C heat.

Where you'll save?

On hotels. Flight prices do fluctuate but during low season an airline is more likely to reduce flight frequently than drastically discount seats. Hotels on the other hand will slash room rates if it means getting more guests into their doors. Any money earned during the quiet time is more than what they'd make otherwise.

Tips for shoulder season travel

The trick to travelling in the shoulder season is choosing a time that isn't an obvious travel time. Avoid school holidays, Easter, half-term breaks and summer holidays as much as possible but choose dates still close to peak season. For example, if you're after a summer break in Spain, head there in the beginning of June. Schools aren't out yet and the weather is glorious! September/early October are also great for beach holidays throughout the Mediterranean.

For skiing, most resorts open in November but don't see any real traffic till Christmas. Early to mid-December are great for skiing, as is late-March and early April.

What to watch out for

In some countries low season is for very obvious reasons. In the Caribbean for example, you may steal a fantastic resort deal but it may be right in the middle of hurricane season. Much of Asia suffers from monsoons, so research your destination before you choose your travel dates.

Where are you planning to go this holiday season?