People often ask me: “When’s the best time to go?” And honestly – there’s no universal answer. The “best” time depends on what you are looking for: sunshine, fewer crowds, lower prices, cultural events, or simply the dates you can take time off.
Even weather, something we’d think of as predictable, can be subjective and increasingly uncertain.
As someone from Vancouver, Canada, I find it hard to even recommend the “perfect” time to visit just based on weather. In recent years, we’ve had everything from a record-breaking heat dome in June to unusually cold, rainy Junes. Summers can be absolutely stunning, but they can also be impacted by wildfire smoke. And Vancouver is not unique-many regions around the world are experiencing shifting and unpredictable weather patterns.
I’ve seen this first-hand in my own travels. In Jordan, I chose to go in June specifically because I wanted the heat in the 30s °C (though it climbed into the 40s some days!). That worked for me, but it wouldn’t suit everyone. Another time, I visited French Polynesia during its so-called “bad weather” season. We had a few rainy afternoons on 1 island, but also plenty of sunshine, and the quieter vibe and lower crowds made it worthwhile.
What Does “Best” Mean to You?
When deciding on the best time to travel, ask yourself:
Am I looking to experience a special event or festival, no matter the season?
Do I want the most reliable weather (and am I willing to pay peak prices for it)?
Do I want to avoid crowds, even if that means less-than-perfect weather?
Do I want to stretch my budget by traveling during off-peak times?
Consider the Seasons
Every destination has a high season, shoulder season, and low season:
- High Season: Often aligns with school holidays and great weather. Think December in the Caribbean or summer in Europe. Expect crowds, higher prices, and limited availability if you don’t book early.
- Shoulder Season: The sweet spot between peak and off-peak. Fewer crowds, better pricing, and still good weather. For example, late spring or early fall in Europe.
- Low Season: The most budget-friendly time to travel, but you may face weather challenges or reduced services. If you don’t mind a little unpredictability, this can mean quieter attractions and great deals.
Match the Season to Your Travel Goals
- Sun & Relaxation: Head to tropical spots during the dry season, but consider just before or after peak holidays for better value.
- Adventure & Exploration: Cooler months may be more comfortable for hiking, safaris, or city sightseeing.
- Cultural Events: If you want to experience local festivals, research dates early. Just remember events often mean higher demand for flights and hotels.
Budget & Flexibility
If budget is a priority, the best time to travel is when demand is low. If your schedule is flexible, you can often find incredible last-minute deals or off-season specials.
So, When Should You Travel?
It really comes down to your priorities:
- If you want the most reliable chance of sunshine, peak season may be best-but you’ll pay higher prices and face more crowds.
- If you want value and fewer people, consider off-peak or shoulder seasons and accept some unpredictability.
- If your goal is a special experience (like seeing cherry blossoms in Japan) you may plan around those events regardless of weather or crowds.
My Advice
The “best” time to travel isn’t the same for everyone. It’s about balancing weather, budget, and experiences. When clients ask me, I always start with their priorities – whether that’s avoiding crowds, getting the best value, or catching that once-in-a-lifetime event.
✨ Travel Tip: Book early if you’re eyeing peak season travel, and consider shoulder season if you want the best mix of price and experience.
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