When Is the Cheapest Time to Travel?

Want to stretch your travel budget? The key is timing. Prices for cottages, hotels and all‑inclusive resorts drop dramatically outside the peak season. Below are real‑world ways to spot those low‑price windows and book smart.

Spot the off‑peak season for UK cottages

In the UK, the Easter break and school holidays push cottage rates up. If you can travel in late October or early November, you’ll often find 30‑40% lower nightly rates. Rural areas like the Cotswolds or Lake District still have mild weather, and you avoid the crowds. Check local tourism boards for school calendars – those dates are the first red flags of high demand.

Another tip: look for “last‑minute” openings on cottage booking sites. Owners sometimes slash prices a week before a stay to fill gaps. Set up alerts for your favourite destinations and you’ll get a notification the moment a deal appears.

Cheap times for hotels and all‑inclusive resorts

Hotel prices follow a similar pattern. Mid‑week stays (Tuesday‑Thursday) are usually cheaper than weekends. If you’re flexible, shift your vacation to start on a Wednesday and you’ll save on both accommodation and flights.

All‑inclusive resorts have a secret season too – the shoulder months. For Mediterranean spots, May and early October offer sunshine without the July‑August price surge. In the Caribbean, the rainy season (June‑November) still delivers good sun, and many resorts drop rates by up to 25%.

When you compare online booking platforms, look beyond the headline price. Some sites add a small fee for “instant booking”, while others let you negotiate directly with the hotel. A quick call can sometimes shave off another 5‑10%.

Putting it all together, the cheapest time to travel is when demand dips but weather remains decent. Aim for shoulder months, mid‑week stays, and keep an eye on school calendars. Use price‑alert tools, check multiple booking sites, and don’t be afraid to call the property directly. With these steps, you’ll lock in lower rates and still enjoy a great holiday.