The lure of minimal crowds and lower prices lets you fully enjoy popular destinations during the shoulder season. Those weeks just before or after peak season in many hot-spot places are often the sweet spots for travellers ready to take advantage. There's sometimes a risk that the weather may not be perfect, but we'll take an afternoon rainstorm in lieu of a gazillion tourists trying to holiday in the same location. Shoulder season usually holds onto the assets of high season without the people and price tags. You'll also have your pick of amazing hotels without scrambling for something with availability.
Where to go: The world is your oyster as almost every destination has a shoulder season and it depends where and when you're looking to travel. Consider the US Virgin Islands in June, when the crowds dissipate and hurricane season hasn't really kicked off. Head to Banff National Park in Canada in September to explore sans throngs of visitors. Check out Greece or Italy in October for a bit of Fall chill and better pricing.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lauren Breedlove