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THE BEST TIME TO VISIT: WHEN TO GO WHERE!

WHERE TO GO IN WINTER ?

In Asia the season is still favourable for visitors! Thailand , Vietnam , southern China (the north however can still be icy at this time), Burma and India are still sunny with reasonable temperatures and less tourists during this time.

In Africa the north is still cool, good for discovering the Sahara but not recommended for those wishing to visit the beaches. Towards the south, in Kenya , Tanzania or South Africa , the high season is starting but with a risk of excessive heat on the east coast.

In America , we would suggest Central America, South America and the Caribbean (for example: Mexico , Brazil , Venezuela , Argentina and Chile ). The U.S. deserts are still pleasant at this time before the scorching summer heat arrives.

For skiers, the French and Spanish Pyrenees have plenty of small family ski resorts with good snow and reasonable prices even during the festive season.

Southern Australia will certainly satisfy those with a taste for adventure down under as it's entering its summer season. The ideal time for surfing, swimming and meeting the koalas, emus and opossums, not forgetting the famous laughing kookaburra.

Between those two destinations we find Senegal ; a stopover warmed as much by the weather as the smiles and sunny dispositions of the people.

WHERE TO GO IN SPRING ?

In Asia , the weather is becoming far less agreeable: Heat waves are starting to be experienced in numerous countries. India , Thailand and Burma are extremely hot right now, enough to cause hundreds of deaths each year. China and Japan are more welcoming even if conditions are still a little trying at times. The monsoon season will settle in towards the end of spring across this area with the exception of only a few areas such as Indonesia or Tamil Nadu in India . It's a great season for visiting Australia or the southern islands of Indonesia .

In Africa , this season is ideal for the countries of the Maghreb which are experiencing sunny weather with pleasant temperatures, like all the Mediterranean countries. In the extreme south, daylight hours are starting to diminish although the weather is still pleasant.

In America , we would suggest North America or Central America down to northern Brazil , basking in warm sunshine at present at the beginning of a pleasant climatic period. California , Mexico , Cuba , Guatemala and Venezuela are definitely worth considering at this time. The further south you go the more the season tends towards southern winter, often very humid.

If you wish to visit Europe , go to Portugal and enjoy summertime temperatures with a refreshing Atlantic breeze, or visit Scotland which is rarely as beautiful and warm as it is during spring in the month of May.

If you dream of tropical destinations then Reunion should satisfy your desires for summer weather and exoticism.

A little closer to Europe but also somewhat different in character, it is a great time to venture inland near the deserts at Tozeur in Tunisia or visit the Jordan valley just before the scorching heat of summer, it is currently experiencing warm sunshine with noticeably absent rain.

WHERE TO GO IN SUMMER ?

The north of Europe is lovely, summer is the ideal time to visit those countries that are generally considered a little cold and damp such as Ireland , Scotland or Holland .

In Asia , this season is considered the least favourable: The monsoon season is at its height over the majority of this area with the exception of only a few countries (Kerala or Tamil Nadu in India , Bali and the southern islands of Indonesia , the north of Australia etc...). Everywhere else a hot, moist and very humid climate prevails.

In Africa , the Maghreb countries are invaded by tourists, the climate is hot (sometimes extremely hot close to the desert) and dry, the Atlantic coast of Morocco is pleasant thanks to the ocean influence. Further to the south it is the rainy season and it is only along the latitudes of Kenya and Tanzania that the climate becomes favourable to visitors.

In America , the north is generally hot and dry (sometimes extremely hot in the deserts towards the west of the USA ). Central America experiences a short rainy season at this time but towards the south the conditions are more favourable.

For all the continents , September is generally the best choice: The end of the monsoons, no more heat waves, less tourists and lower prices. Don't hesitate to take your holidays in September when there are only advantages.

Corsica is perfect right now for those looking for paradisiacal beaches with turquoise water, although close to mainland Europe it will feel like you are on the other side of the globe!

It is a great time to discover northern Europe, particularly somewhere such as Iceland where the sun does not set during this period.

For those wishing to go down under, Australia is great right now. The sea may be a little cool for swimming but the weather is still very pleasant and you could even go skiing in the south where it is right in the middle of its winter season!

WHERE TO GO IN AUTUMN ?

In Asia , the best season is just starting! From the month of October, Thailand , Vietnam and the south of China or India will be very welcoming with a climate that is once again very pleasant now the monsoon period is easing.

In Africa , the north is also very enjoyable with temperatures easing after the summer heat waves. The inland towns of Morocco , the Tunisian desert and Egypt are seeing a lessening in the number of tourists and a pleasant but not overwhelming heat. More towards the south, Senegal , Madagascar and South Africa are entering a sunny period.

In America , we would recommend Central America, South America and the Caribbean where the rainy season is coming to a close (for example; Mexico , Brazil , Venezuela , Argentina and Chile ). The end of autumn is also a great time to visit Death Valley and the deserts of the United States .

Turkey is a very pleasant destination at this time of the year after the high temperatures of summer, especially if you wish to visit other areas than the coast.

Cyprus with its Mediterranean climate offers you warm temperatures even in October.

If you would prefer visiting some Asian countries then India is entering into its tourist season, Mumbai and Calcutta have excellent climatic conditions right now.

Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Canaries Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Comoros Congo Democratic Republic of Congo Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Madagascar Madeira Malawi Mali Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Reunion Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Seychelles Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa Sudan Swaziland Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Zambia Zimbabwe

Anguilla Antarctic Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Bahamas Barbados Belize Bermuda Bolivia Brazil Canada Cayman Islands Chile Colombia Costa Rica Cuba Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Falkland Islands Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guatemala Guyana Guyana Haiti Honduras Jamaica (Caribbean Islands) Martinique Mexico Netherlands Antilles Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Puerto Rico Saint Barthelemy Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Salvador Surinam Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands Uruguay US Virgin Islands USA Venezuela

Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Burma (Myanmar) Cambodia China East Timor Hong Kong India Indonesia Japan Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Laos Macao Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Nepal North Korea Pakistan Philippines Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Tibet Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Vietnam

Albania Andorra Austria Azores Belarus Belgium Bosnia Bulgaria Crete (kriti) Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Georgia Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands (Holland) Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia Scotland Serbia Slovak Republic Slovenia Spain Sweden Swiss Turkey Ukraine United Kingdom Vatican

Middle East

Bahrain Iran Iraq Israel Jordan Kuwait Lebanon Oman Palestine Qatar Saudi Arabia Syria United Arab Emirates Yemen

Australia Cook Islands Fiji French Polynesia Guam Micronesia New Caledonia New Zealand Northern Mariana Islands Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Tonga Vanuatu Wallis and futuna

Where to go in January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December © 2005 - 2024 TheBestTimeToVisit.com | Privacy policy | Destinations

Où et quand partir - When and Where to Go - Wohin und wann reisen - Dónde y cuándo salir - Dove e quando partire - Onde e quando partir

Know when to book your next trip.

Actually, there is a perfect time to go on your vacation. Our Best Time to Travel tool uses your origin, destination and length of trip to determine when you should travel and when to book for a great price. Start by filling in your travel details, and we'll take it from there.

Methodology

Calculation: our recommendation.

Our recommendation on which month to travel is calculated based on the presented four factors: average flight prices, popularity, average temperature, and average precipitation. Flight prices, popularity, and precipitation constitute inverse factors, the less the better. Average temperature optimal values are taken as the median for the destination, and a difference is calculated for each month from this reference point. The smaller the difference the higher the month moves in the recommendation. Flight prices and temperature factors are weighed double as much as popularity and precipitation. In case of unavailable data for any of the aforementioned factors, the recommendation is estimated based on the rest of the available factors.

Data: flight prices

Prices are estimates based on analysis of current and historical minimum roundtrip prices for one traveler on economy class. Prices include monthly averages as well as the greatest and least percentages in intervals of ten for each trip length. With our data, we try to forecast future minimum price trends - these estimates are subject to change and should be interpreted as a rough directional guide.

Data: hotel prices

Overall insights for hotel prices are based on our own search data from the past 3 - 4 days and insights can be updated once a day. To estimate nightly rates for a standard double-room at 3-star hotels, we show the pricing range excluding the top 10% and bottom 10% of prices for a given destination. If there are missing insights, that means that we don't have enough data from the past 3 - 4 days on the given destination to provide a reliable estimate.

Data: popularity

Monthly crowd estimates for each destination are determined by internal flight and hotel search data. This incorporates the latest historical insights from the past two years, which are updated on a monthly basis. The data is analyzed by identifying the two months with the highest number of searches, revealing the period(s) with the greatest crowds.

Data: weather

Weather data is pulled from a third party site, Weatherbase , and has not been verified by KAYAK. Monthly average temperature and precipitation data is based on historical insights from the past 102 years. Weatherbase data is updated in realtime from the US Census Bureau and other databases worldwide.

Data: best time to book

Best time to book insights are estimated from our internal historical search data. Search data from the past year is aggregated for each day difference between date of departure and search date from 0 to 183 days (about 6 months ahead is the earliest and one week ahead is the latest we consider), taking the median of hotel prices of 3 stars or below and flight prices of economy class. The minimum prices and corresponding day difference is identified to approximate best times to book flight tickets for the specific route, and hotels for the specific destination city. The underlying dataset is updated weekly. In case of missing insights, the route or destination city in question have less than 80 data points per day difference, thus we cannot generate reliable estimates.

Best & Worst Time to Visit Japan 2024/2025 (First-Timer Guide)

When it comes to the best time to visit Japan, the common answer is March and May for the cherry blossoms and pleasant temperatures. But Japan is a year-round popular destination with four distinct seasons. Each season offers a variety of charming scenery and culture-rich events to enjoy.

The joys, however, may be affected by other factors like crowds and lines, seasonal costs, the weather, local activities, and so on. Considering these factors and different travel needs, we'll recommend the best times to visit Japan for you to help you make the most out of the trip.

Scroll down to learn the details.

Japan Monthly Weather : Pick A Month for More Details

Best Time to Visit Japan for Pleasant Weather

Most people vote that the best times to visit Japan are spring and autumn. During these periods, the weather is clear and pleasant, making international travel more comfortable.

Additionally, most traditional events are held in the two seasons, providing a great opportunity to experience local traditions.

Spring: Best Time to Visit Japan for Warm and Refreshing Days

Best Time to Visit Japan in Spring: March - April

Spring is a generally pleasant one compared to other seasons in Japan, with high temperatures around 20°C (70°F) and lows around 5°C (40°F) .

It's advisable to prepare warm clothing still during this time, especially in early March when you may see leftover snow in northern Japan.

However, for those traveling in April and May, or mainly in major cities, the weather is mild, ideal for strolling or sightseeing , without the embarrassment of sweat or shivering.

Notably, Japan hosts various cherry blossom-themed events in Spring, such as the Takayama Festival and the Sanja Matsuri. In these events, you will have the chance to witness beautiful floats and performances.

Autumn: Best Time to Visit Japan for Cool and Sunny Days

Best Time to Visit Japan in Autumn: September - November

Autumn gradually cools down, with temperatures in September ranging from about 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) , decreasing to highs of 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F) by November.

This coolness, coupled with sunshine, is perfect to venture outdoors and immerse yourself in the rich autumnal vibe . You'll see sparkling dew in the morning and leaves in shades of red, yellow, and orange carpeting the forests and lakesides.

Additionally, historically significant Fujiwara Matsuri and the internationally renowned Tokyo International Film Festival grace the autumn calendar. Apart from the ongoing events, crowds are fewer , making autumn the best time to visit Japan.

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Best Time to Visit Japan By Activities

Japan has a rich tradition and numerous attractions, bringing many activities. Each activity reflects the region's history, lifestyle, and good wishes.

Therefore, planning the best time to visit Japan around seasonal events is also a good choice. This is an excellent window to learn more about Japanese culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Cherry Blossoms

March to May comes with the most beautiful scenery and is the best time to visit Japan for cherry blossoms. They usually reach full bloom from late March to early April (March 24th to April 2nd), making the spring or Easter vacation the perfect time to travel to Japan.

If you want to avoid the large crowds and enjoy slightly lower prices in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the week before full bloom (around March 16th to 23rd) is your best time. While the cherry blossoms have not yet fully opened on some trees, the scenery during this time is almost as stunning as it is when the blossoms are in full bloom.

If you want to appreciate the cherry blossoms from April to early May with fewer crowds and lower costs, Hokkaido, the northernmost part of Japan, is an excellent destination for you. It is also the perfect place to experience Japanese indigenous culture. The best time to view cherry blossoms in Sapporo is from mid to late April (around April 15th to 20th).

Click to know further : Plan a Japan Cherry Blossom Trip 2025, Dates and Avoid Crowds

Hotels around popular attractions are always booked up quickly, contact us at least 3 months in advance to have the best chance of room availability and choice.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Festivals

Most Japanese festivals are related to history, mythology, local customs, or cherry blossoms. Therefore, if you are interested in the events in Japan or wish to witness the beauty of cherry blossoms, the best time of year to visit Japan is days before local activities begin.

Highly recommended are cherry blossom festivals like the Ueno Sakura Matsuri and the Maruyama Park Sakura Matsuri , which focus on cherry blossom appreciation, picnics, and performances.

Also worth experiencing is the Kanda Matsuri , held in mid-May, which is one of Tokyo's three major Shinto festivals alongside the Sanja Matsuri (Sanja Festival) and the Sanno Matsuri. It offers a glimpse into Tokyo's rich cultural heritage and an opportunity to seek good fortune.

If you're a winter enthusiast, don't miss the Sapporo Snow Festival , renowned for its concerts, ice and snow sports events, and local Hokkaido food stalls.

Additionally, other classic Japanese festivals include:

• Fujisan Kaizen Climbing Ceremony , a major summer event held in June in Shizuoka City, Japan.
• Kyoto Gion Matsuri , featuring shrines and float parades, is celebrated in July.
• Hakata Gion Yamakasa , a float competition host in July in Kyushu.
• Akita Kanto Matsuri , held in August, features hundreds of giant lantern displays.
• Nagasaki Kunchi Festival with dragon dances and taiko performances, held in October in Nagasaki.

Best Time to Visit Japan for Tokyo Disneyland

The best time to visit Japan Disneyland attractions depends on a lot of factors. For comfort, spring and autumn are recommended . The weather is pleasant during these seasons, and aside from rides under maintenance, everything is operational. Especially in autumn, Halloween and Christmas decorations and themed events will be added.

If you prefer a less crowded time , January to early March is a good choice. However, it will be cold, and some outdoor attractions and rides might be closed. As for June to August, it is the least recommended time to visit. Not only is it peak season, but it also coincides with Japanese holidays, making it even more crowded.

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Best Times to Visit Japan for Less Crowds and Lower Prices

Winter: Least Crowded Time to Visit Japan

Winter (December to February) is considered the cheapest time to visit Japan, except during Christmas and New Year. This period is cold and dry, with an average daily high of 10°C (50°F). It is not too cold to go outside with minimal tourists and lower travel costs .

Whether you head to Sapporo for skiing, attend the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival in Hokkaido, or enjoy the hot springs at Kusatsu or Kurokawa, you won't have to wait in extremely long lines. Additionally, since it's the off-season, it's easier to book hotels or traditional Japanese inns at reasonable prices.

Avoid Peak Travel Season and Japanese Holidays

However, if you don't have time in the winter or around it, the best time to visit Japan is to avoid the peak season like March and April. While these two seasons have pleasant weather, they attract tourists from around the world for cherry blossom viewing.

Also, avoid four major Japan holidays: Golden Week in May , Obon in mid-August, Silver Week in mid-September, and the New Year holiday from late December to January 3rd. During these four periods, the Japanese may use these dates to go on vacation. Tourist attractions will be extremely crowded, the costs for food and accommodation are greatly higher, and traffic is often congested.

Worst Time to Visit Japan

June to August is the worst time to visit Japan. It is summer and very hot, with average high temperatures around 31°C (88°F) and feels-like temperatures reaching 41°C (106°F) . Traveling between attractions, or even just stepping out of the hotel to shop, can feel like being scorched by the sun.

Worse yet, as Japan is an island nation, summer is not only the peak typhoon season but also the rainy season , with maximum rainfall reaching up to 140mm. For parks and shrines with outdoor facilities, they may have to close for safety.

However, you may still want to fly to Japan to experience the traditions and culture in the summer. It is recommended to check the weather forecast, prepare plenty of time to get there and bring cooling and heat-relief items.

Also, try to avoid attending the mentioned festival activities around Obon in mid-August if you have a limited budget. It is a nine-day holiday in Japan that will cause unnecessary expenses and congestion.

Weather in Japan by Month: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka

Of the must-visit cities in Japan , Tokyo , Kyoto , and Osaka are always the most famous ones for first-timers.

They all have distinct seasons, with a rainy season from June to July and possibly affected by Pacific typhoons from August to October.

Apart from these seasonal commonalities, there are differences in their climates and best visiting times due to their different locations within Japan.

Tokyo : Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Tokyo's climate is mild. Therefore, the best time to visit Tokyo , Japan may cover four seasons. As for attractions, Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Akihabara, Sensoji Temple, and Ueno Park are all excellent options, each offering a unique seasonal experience.

Kyoto : Located inland, Kyoto experiences hot and humid summers and cold and snowy winters. Thus, the two seasons are not the best times to visit Kyoto, Japan. However, if you visit in the spring or autumn, Kinkakuji Temple and Kiyomizu-dera Temple will immerse you in Japanese culture. Places like Kinkakuji, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Gion will show you what serene and unhurried life looks like.

Osaka : Osaka's summers are hot with temperatures above 30°C (86°F), but winters are relatively mild, typically around 0°C (32°F) with little snowfall. So other than Spring and Autumn, the best time to visit Osaka, Japan might include winter, which is also a great time to enjoy oden (Japanese hotpot).

Explore Fun Things in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka: 

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Plan Your Japan Trip

To wrap up, in addition to the seasonal climate, festival events, crowd size, and budget can also be priorities to be your best time to visit Japan. Alternatively, you can even describe your interests and requirements to us for a tailor-made travel plan without any worries.

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Best Times to Travel to the World's Most-Visited Cities

Best time to travel to the world's most-visited cities to avoid the crowds.

As more and more people circumnavigate the globe in search of new experiences, some cities have become a beacon to travelers. These destinations have become so popular, the phrase "over-tourism" has saturated the news. Destinations like Barcelona and Venice are so concerned with out-of-control-tourism, restrictions are being placed on those who visit.

For those who've always wanted to see these outstanding cities, visiting during the peak seasons can lead to huge disappointment. Rather than feeling like cattle being moved through crowded museums and attractions, head to the world's biggest destinations during off-peak times instead.

When can you visit some of the best cities in the world and still, well, enjoy them? Our list reviews the off-peak months when you can also find decent rates and tolerable climate.

Venice, Italy

Best Time to Travel: September – November

Average Temps: Highs in the low 50s to 70s

Perhaps you have heard about the massive crowds that have descended upon Italy's canal-filled city? More than 5 million international travelers visit Venice every year, a number so high, the City Council has imposed a per-person fee for day-trippers.

Summer is the peak season for tourists, but that doesn't mean you should visit in the winter. In fact, the city shuts down during the winter and can get particularly cold. The best time to visit is in the fall, when kids are back in school, families curtail their travel — and summer's oppressive heat dissipates.

There are even fun events to enjoy in the fall, from the Venice International Film Festival to the art- and theater-focused La Biennale di Venezia.

Paris, France

Best Time to Travel: June

Average Temps: Highs in the low 70s, lows in the mid-50s

Nearly 16 million tourists traveled to Paris in 2018 — enough to make it the sixth-most-visited city in the world.

As the song goes, "I love Paris in the springtime, I love Paris in the fall." Both times of year are easy seasons to fall in love with France's capital city, as both aren't as crowded as the hot summer or the holiday season, when Christmas decor is in full effect.

However, it is June that is the magical month for visiting the city — just before the summer crush of people arrive, yet not too hot, and filled with fun like the Fete de St-Denis and Fete de la Musique.

Barcelona, Spain

Best Time to Travel: May – June

Average Temps: Mid-50s through mid-70s

As the most popular city in Spain for visitors, Barcelona receives 30 times as many annual visitors as it has residents. To combat over-tourism, the city has implemented new accommodation laws to prevent room-sharing and to make it more difficult to find places to stay.

Due to its mild winters and typically warmer Mediterranean Sea location, tourism is ripe throughout the year. Spring sees less tourism than most seasons, but there is also a greater chance of experiencing spring showers.

The best time to visit is late spring, May through early June, when the rains subside and pre-summer festivals kickoff — but just before families show up in droves over the summer. 

London, England

Best Time to Travel: March – May

Average Temps: Highs in the 50s– 60s

As with other popular European cities, London receives the majority of its tourism crowds in the summer, when sunshine finally becomes the norm in an often overcast city, as well as the holiday season. Throughout the year, the city receives nearly 20 million international visitors, making it the third-most-visited metropolis in the world. 

Shoulder season may seem the best time to visit, but the fall brings more rain than the spring in Londontown. The ideal time to go is actually between March and May, long after the holiday crowds have left and well before the summer influx. Sunshine is also more common during the spring, so you can enjoy flower-filled sunny days.

There is plenty to see, as well, with the world-renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the reopening of Parliament both taking place in May.

Bangkok, Thailand

Best Time to Travel: April

Average Temps: Mid-90s

The world's second-most-visited city, Bangkok drew more than 22 million tourists last year. 

Ever-bustling, the city has something to offer every month of the year. But as a tropical city, it becomes unpleasantly humid during its warmest months, February through September, when temperatures reach into the 90s. 

The best time to visit weather-wise is between November and April, but for the least amount of people and best deals, April is your best bet.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Best Time to Travel: May

Average Temps: High 90s

With Dubai showcasing the world's record-breaking attractions and buildings, it's no surprise it receives about 16 million travelers annually. 

As in Bangkok, temperatures in the summer keep things steamy — it is a desert city, after all — and people generally know to avoid the 100-degree-plus days of summer. This means winter is peak time for tourists, between November and March.

If you want to visit when there will likely be fewer crowds and lower rates, try May and June. May temps average in the mid-70s at night and reach average highs in the 90s during the day, so spend the days indoors or on the beach.

Best Time to Travel: July – August

Average Temps: High 80s

Welcoming nearly 18 million visitors in 2018, Singapore is another Asian city that offers plenty to do year-round. Less sticky than Bangkok, average temps stay pretty consistent throughout the year: mid-70s at night and high 80s during the day — you can't beat it! Well, except that it rains a lot throughout the year, as well.

Singapore is filled with business travelers, which means it's easier to avoid crowds at attractions because so many people are in meetings and conferences rather than out exploring.

Unlike Europe, crowds avoid Singapore in the summer months, making July and August good times to visit. This is also a great time to enjoy special events, like the Great Singapore Sale, when retailers offer steep discounts on quality goods, and the Hungry Ghost Festival, a traditional Buddhist and Taoist event. 

New York, New York

Best Time to Travel: April – May

Average Temps: Upper 50s – 60s

The most-visited city in the U.S. welcomes more than 13 million tourists each year. Out-of-towners come in droves to experience the city that never sleeps, and prices stay high throughout the year.

That said, you'll find relatively cheaper prices if you visit in January and February, when the city is at its coldest: lows in the 20s and highs only in the 30s. But with less to do outdoors, you may be squished inside museums and other indoor attractions, hiding out with everyone else trying to get away from the cold. 

Instead, try visiting in the spring, when the outdoors become hospitable again and festivals abound. You'll definitely rub shoulders with other tourists, but there will be fewer of them than you'd encounter during the summer and holiday seasons. 

Istanbul, Turkey

Average Temps: 50s – 70s

Straddling Asia and Europe is one of the most beautiful and ancient cities in the world: Istanbul. It's so fascinating, it drew nearly 11 million visitors in 2018.

Crowds descend upon the waterfront city during the summer months, and the rainy season takes place in the winter. The best times to visit are, once again, the shoulder seasons.

In the fall, rain can take place daily, which makes rates drops and crowds lessen, but if you want better weather along with your deals, try visiting March through May — you'll find festivals for film, music and tulips during this time as well. 

Tokyo, Japan

Average Temps: 60s – 80s

Japan's ultra-exciting city of Tokyo is both a business and tourism destination, which is why more than 12 million people visited last year — and with the city set to host the Summer Olympics in 2020, that number is only poised to grow more.

Actually, the presence of the Olympics means you'll probably want to avoid a vacay next summer. Tokyo's peak season is already during the summer; Olympics revelers will make the city overwhelmingly busy. 

Instead, visit in the fall, right after the hoopla has died down. Before the action, spring offers great weather, but with throes of people wanting to see the Japanese cherry blossoms in bloom, it's not a great time for beating the crowds.

St. Petersburg, Russia

Best Time to Travel: March – April

Average Temps: Low 20s – mid 40s

Russia's notorious winters don't stop more than 8 million people from visiting St. Petersburg every year. Of course, it does mean those numbers peak during the summer, when the climate is more suitable.

You won't want to visit the city in the winter, as temps fall below freezing and the sun rarely makes an appearance. But if you are willing to sacrifice some warmth to avoid the crowds, March and April are solid bets. If you go in April, you can also enjoy the International Ballet Festival.

Johannesburg, South Africa

Best Time to Travel: June – August

Average Temps: 60s during the day

At the other end of the world, winter is summer in Johannesburg. Unlike in St. Petersburg. where temps descend below freezing, South Africa offers mild and sunny days from September through April.

This also means crowds. More than 5.5 million international visitors enjoy Johannesburg, many coming from the northern hemisphere in an attempt to escape winter. This is not the place to go if you are seeking a holiday or spring-break getaway.

However, while everyone is making their way to European cities in the summertime, the crowds have disappeared from Johannesburg. Temps are a cool 60 in the summer (their winter) but don't fall much below 40, so you can enjoy a break from the heat and see what you want to see with elbow room to spare.

Sydney, Australia

Another Southern Hemisphere city that is best enjoyed during its winter months is Sydney. As with Johannesburg, visitors tend to come in the winter months to escape the northern cold and enjoy Sydney's summer.

You'll find better deals and fewer crowds when you visit during Sydney's winter — far from Europe's jam-packed cities — from June to August.

You'll also have a chance to enjoy the Sydney Film Festival, the Australian International Music Festival and whale-watching season if you visit during the chillier months.

Athens, Greece

Average Temps: Mid 60s to 80s

Many of the people who visit the ancient city of Athens pass through during the summer. Which really doesn't make much sense, considering July temps can climb into the 90s.

Skip the heat and the crowds and visit when the temperatures are more tolerable instead — spring and fall. As the weather averages from the 60s to the 80s, school schedules ensure fewer families coming on vacation, leaving the city less crowded for you. 

If you visit in late September-early October, you can also enjoy the Athens International Film Festival.

Cairo, Egypt

Best Time to Travel: April – May or October

Average Temps: 80s

Growing steadily in tourist visits, Cairo recorded more than 4 million international visits in 2018. 

With its warm African locale, travel peaks during the winter months. But at the lowest travel periods of the summer, temps soar.

Squeeze in your visit before the heat really kicks in in May, or before the winter rush in October. It'll be summer-like hot, but you'll find deals and far fewer crowds, perhaps even getting a picture of the pyramids without strangers in the background.

The Best Time to Travel Anywhere

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Recommendations are based on precipitation and perceived temperatures, which factor in wind chill and humidity in addition to the daily high, low, and median temperatures. By default we recommend the times that are most likely to be warm (not too hot or too cold) and have less precipitation. If you are a cold-weather traveler or looking to book a ski trip, you can customize your own settings and find a the best time to visit the place of your choice using our travel weather map .

The Best Time to Visit Popular Places

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Countries listed are averaged across the entire nation, and will therefor be less accurate for large countries. Bonus: The best time to visit Antarctica for “warmer” weather, such as it is.

Moscow   Travel Guide

Best Times To Visit Moscow

The best time to visit Moscow is April and May, when the temperature creeps into the 50s and 60s, the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day, and hotel rates have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges. Of course, the golden period is summer, when the city is warm and bustling. But if you want to (slightly) spare yourself from the perpetually expensive rates, try the shoulder seasons in the spring and early fall. Preferably spring, since fall experiences more rainfall and less sunlight. Winters are brutally cold, but this is when you'll get a true glimpse into the Moscow experience (A frost-bitten walk through Red Square seems to intensify the historical significance of this great capital city).

Weather in Moscow

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Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown (2024)

Trying to decide the best time to visit Alaska? This month by month breakdown will help you figure out the best time to travel to Alaska, depending on what you’d like to do and see.

We spent 5 weeks exploring Alaska and can attest that is the last real wilderness left in the United States. It is an untouched, rugged, and pristine destination that’s just waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers. 

Be sure to also check out our extensive Alaska Travel Guide

The northernmost state though, is a very seasonal place to visit, because the vast landscapes and sporadic towns and small cities are at the mercy of the weather. 

This far north, you find a land of extremes. Alaska endures long, dark winters with some areas having no daylight for weeks at a time. There are fierce snowstorms and temperatures are well below zero for much of the year. 

Summer is beautiful, and arguably it’s the best time to visit Alaska because the days are long and the temperatures are relatively high. Although, I’ll admit that we prefer the spring months for better contrast and cooler weather.

You’ll even catch the midnight sun in some locations. But the summer season is short, lasting only from late May to September, and this is when it’s peak season, and the cities and glaciers are full of cruise ship tourists. 

So When Is The Best Time to Go to Alaska?

Table of Contents

When it comes down to it, the best time to plan a trip to Alaska depends on what you want to do in Alaska and which Alaskan destinations you want to visit.

If you want to go on an Alaska road trip , you’ll want to visit at a completely different time than if you want to see the Northern Lights . The Alaska cruise season is different still.

And while there are only a few months of the year where you can hike in the national parks, cities like Anchorage , Juneau , and Fairbanks offer a longer tourism season.

Below, we’ll go into a month-by-month breakdown of the best time to travel to Alaska. Once you know what you’d like to do, you can use this guide as a reference to decide the best time to plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit Alaska FAQs

Before we go into the month-by-month breakdown, here are a few quick answers if you’re wondering about things like the best month to see Northern Lights in Alaska or the best month to cruise Alaska.

April, May, and September are typically the cheapest months to visit Alaska. The weather isn’t perfect but it’s not winter and the crowds are a lot smaller. Just note that some activities may not yet be open (or may already be closing).

July tends to be the most expensive month to go to Alaska – because that’s when most people want to go to Alaska. It’s the peak of high season for both cruises and those flying in. Expect higher prices on accommodation, flights, cruises, and tours.

The Alaska cruise season runs from April to September, which peak months being June-August. While most would say that summer is the best time to cruise Alaska , I actually think that spring is an even better time!

The Northern Lights are technically visible from August to April. However, you’re most likely to see them between November and February.

The spring and summer months are the best time to see wildlife in Alaska. Grizzly bears are usually all awake from their winter hibernation in May. June is the peak season for whale watching and most other animals are active too.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown

To be able to plan the ultimate trip to the national parks, and to remote destinations, you’ll need to know the best time to visit Alaska.

Here’s our month by month guide on the weather and the best places to go! 

January in Alaska 

January is a cold, cold time to be in Alaska. But it’s also a unique time of the year to explore the state, as you’ll experience the region in the throes of winter. 

The far north of Alaska sees almost no daylight in January, being well within the Arctic Circle. However, stay south in Anchorage or Juneau and you can enjoy a few hours each day of sunlight.

In fact, the skies are beautifully clear when the sun is out for its brief stint each day. This makes January the best time to visit for flightseeing trips over the glaciers and mountains. 

At night you’ll likely see the Northern Lights too, especially if you head further north.

There’s ample opportunity for snow sports, including dog sledding and snowshoeing of course. You can learn more about local cultures during the dead winter months too.

Remember though that travel in January can be difficult, especially if you want to head to the Arctic areas.

Overland travel is almost non-existent, even in summer, and even less so in winter, of course. 

February in Alaska

In February, it’s just as cold and just as dark as in January, perhaps even colder depending on the weather patterns.

This is not the best time to visit Alaska, because there’s almost perpetual darkness and you’ll be at the mercy of the extreme weather. 

This is still very much winter. But as in January, stick to the cities and you can enjoy Alaskan culture at this unique time of the year.

You can still take the odd flightseeing trip if the skies stay clear and of course, this is a great time to see the Northern Lights. 

Head out from the cities and you’ll likely catch the Northern Lights in the sky, while there’s lots of chance to go dog sledding or snowshoeing too, all across Alaska. 

March in Alaska

While March sees the beginning of spring in more southern areas of the USA, in Alaska, it’s a completely different story. 

It’s still winter, but in March the temperatures are rising incrementally, and the darkest days are now over. 

The days are getting longer and this is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities in the snowy wilds of the Alaskan national parks. 

In fact, if you want to enjoy the Northern Lights, this can be the best time to visit Alaska, because you’ll catch them in the night, but still be able to enjoy the daylight hours too.

April in Alaska

April is when the weather begins to transition from winter to summer. This is the short Alaskan springtime and it’s the best time to visit Alaska before the summer crowds arrive. 

Small numbers of cruise ships begin to dock in places such as Anchorage or Juneau, while it’s much easier to travel overland. 

The wildlife begins to emerge from hibernation and if you head into the national parks you’ll begin to see all sorts of animals, including moose and perhaps even the odd bear. 

May in Alaska

May is the start of summer, or at least, the end of spring, and temperatures continue to rise all through the month. Truth be told, this is one of our favorite times to be in Alaska. There is still snow on the mountains, yet the land is green and flowers are starting to bloom.

In May, the days are now incredibly long, and the further north you travel the longer they’ll become. 

You’ll start to see whales in the ocean and more and more wildlife in the national parks.

In fact, this is probably the best time to visit Alaska if you want to spot wildlife because as the ice thaws across the state new life emerges into the sunlight.

Alaska is well and truly in bloom in May, and luckily, this is still very much a shoulder season too, because the summer crowds have yet to arrive in port. 

June in Alaska

Those summer crowds really make their first appearance in June, because this is the start of the high season. That said, we loved being there in early June. It’s not quite high season yet but everything is open and operating again.

This is not the best time to visit Alaska if you want the most popular places, such as Denali National Park or the famous glaciers around either Juneau or Anchorage, to yourself. 

Remember though, that Alaska is a vast place and there is so much more to see than just the tourist hot spots. We booked a trip to Bear Camp in Lake Clark National Park in the first week of June and were the first group to visit that year.

Take the time to head north, and you’ll quickly find the cruise crowds dissipate, and you’ll have the backcountry all to yourself.

Go to Fairbanks or head to the Kenai Peninsula, or better yet, head far, far north for the Midnight Sun in the Arctic Circle, where the sun never sets for most of the month of June. 

July in Alaska

July is still peak season and it’s still the height of summer in the state. If you’re looking to explore the national parks and to go hiking then this is the best time to visit Alaska. 

All the national parks are now well and truly open as the snow has melted in most locations, and you can enjoy trekking deep into Denali National Park or even attempt to summit Mount Denali if mountaineering is your pursuit of choice. 

The days are long and there is little darkness in July, and you’ll find wildlife everywhere, both in the oceans and on land.

For an off-the-beaten-track experience, take a cruise to the little-visited Aleutian Islands, which are glorious this time of the year.

August in Alaska

In August, the days begin to get slightly colder but there’s still a lot of daylight, with sunshine averaging around 18 hours per day across the state. The next time we visit Alaska, we want to go in August.

The wildlife is out and about and enjoying the weather before the short autumn soon arrives and before Alaska is then plunged into darkness when winter begins all too soon.

The last of the summer crowds are here in August, but by the end of the month, things are getting quieter.

This is a great last chance to enjoy the best of the national parks and outdoor activities in Alaska, while the waters off the coast will be teeming with humpback whales and orcas.

September in Alaska

As early as September the beautiful summer weather is gone, but it’s prefaced with a resplendent autumnal glow across the state. 

The wildlife is very active in September, and this is the best time to visit Alaska to see the wildlife preparing for their winter hibernation, by stocking up on food and hunting. 

You might have the chance to see the Northern Lights too, but you’ll need to head up north and get lucky.

The nights are getting longer but there’s still plenty of daylight too, and none of the summer crowds of the previous few months either.

October in Alaska

By October, winter is almost upon Alaska, and the days are getting much shorter and the nights are much longer. 

Wildlife begins to slow down in the wilderness and you’ll have a harder time spotting them in the wild as they prepare for the cold weather. 

This is very much a shoulder season meaning that there are few other tourists around.

Unfortunately, this is also a transition month and not just in terms of the weather but in terms of tourist activities too.

Many summer activities such as hiking are difficult now, while there’s also not much snowfall, meaning winter activities have yet to actually begin.

All of this ensures that October isn’t the first choice for many travelers and really isn’t the best time to visit Alaska. 

November in Alaska

November sees the beginning of winter and the start of heavy snowfall across the state. 

The days are much shorter now and temperatures are extremely low, especially at night time. 

You’ll have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights however and winter activities will be in action, and you can enjoy snowshoeing and dog sledding. 

December in Alaska

December is a dark time to be in Alaska, but if you’re after a true winter escape and a guaranteed white Christmas, then this would make for an unusual getaway. 

Be prepared to be cold, but also be prepared for unique winter experiences. Stick to the south for better weather, and because you’ll have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights too, rather than needing to venture too far north. 

You might also like:

• 27 Things You Should Know About Alaska Before You Visit
• Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska: Ultimate Planning Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chena Hot Springs
• Denali State Park Heli-Hiking Adventure in Remote Alaska

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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The best times to visit the USA

Aug 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Choose the best time for your visit to the US with this guide to events, seasons and crowds through the year © Mint Images / Getty Images

When you’re visiting the USA , the question “When’s the best time to go?” isn’t a simple one – but we’re here to help. Instead, ask yourself what you’d like to do on your trip.

Do you want to hike some of the country’s tallest peaks? Go to music festivals ? Soak up the sun on sparkling beaches ? Explore big cities? With its immense geographical and cultural diversity, you’ll undoubtedly find something amazing to do in the US no matter when you arrive.

Thanks to school schedules and warmer weather, summer is generally regarded as the high season, while crowds taper off in the colder months (with the exception of the holiday season in mid- to late December). Spring and fall make up the shoulder seasons, but some parts of the country experience high-season crowds at this time thanks to spring superblooms in the west  and fall colors in the east . 

Things slow down in the winter, but traveling during this time yields some unexpected benefits: comfortable temps in notoriously hot places, smaller crowds in cities, and tons of winter sports and activities, from skiing to snowshoeing to ice fishing.   

Here's what you need to know about seasons and events through the year in the US.

May to July is the best time for perfect weather

While ideal weather windows vary across the country, this is the period when most places have shaken off their winter chill and embraced the vibrant bloom of spring and early summer. The east bursts into color with nature-centric events like the Cherry Blossom Festival , the south lights up with fireflies, and wildflowers cover the rolling California hills. Patio season is in full swing in cities, and outdoor concerts begin to reappear after their winter hiatus.

This is also when cultural events kick into high gear, and national parks begin fielding some of their biggest crowds.

October to November is the best time for leaf peeping

The US takes on an amber hue in late fall, giving everything a cozy, crisp atmosphere that makes you want to grab a glass of warm apple cider. The deciduous forests of the northern Midwest, New England and Appalachia wow spectators with fiery maple trees and golden ginkgos, while western states like Colorado stun with yellow aspens that glow in the autumn sun. 

Note that some of the most popular fall foliage destinations (ie, Vermont , North Carolina , etc) see high-season crowds during this time, but don’t worry – you can still catch fall colors in less trafficked spots across the country, along with lower prices.

November to March is the best time for budget travelers and city breaks

Once fall comes to a close, the crowds ease up, and most places settle into a low-key hum as they batten down the hatches for winter. This is a perfect time to make a trip to the city that’s been on your bucket list, as hotel prices dip and crowds for big-name attractions and popular restaurants dwindle. Colder (and possibly wet) weather also makes this the perfect time to enjoy some of the country’s best museums .

The one exception to the budget rule is mid-December through the New Year, as places buzz with Christmas activity and folks take to the roads and skies for trips home for the holidays. Prices spike and availability plummets, but things calm down again pretty quickly in January. 

January to March is the best time to hit the slopes

Ski season technically starts in December, but slopes on both sides of the country really hit their stride in the months following the holidays. By February, most places – especially out west – have a good base of snow established, and fresh powder continues to fall. The length of ski season varies from year to year based on temperature changes and precipitation amounts, but sometimes lifts will stay open all the way through May. 

March to June is best for spring colors and hiking in the mountain east

Flowers, flowers everywhere! The bluebonnets in Texas , the rhododendrons of Tennessee and North Carolina, the poppies of California – the country is a tapestry of blooms as the first waves of warm weather shake it from its winter slumber. 

This is also the best time to explore the ancient mountains of the eastern US. Spring showers, warm sunshine and humid forests make for an explosion of life: mushrooms, wildflowers and blooming trees cover the ridges and hollows of Appalachia, from Georgia to Maine . Creeks are full, and waterfalls are at their most gorgeous.

June to August is best for festivals, hiking the mountain west, water activities

It’s summer, baby! And that means a few things: higher temperatures and bigger crowds, but also lots to do. 

Music festival goers will find themselves inundated with options across the country: big festivals like Bonnaroo, Electric Forest and Lollapalooza draw crowds by the tens of thousands, and tons of smaller regional festivals take the stage, too.

This is also peak time to hit the trails of the mountain west, as most roads will be cleared of snow, and transportation will be easier through high elevation territory. The mountainsides will be blooming, the wildlife out and about, and the camping fabulous. That said, you definitely won’t be the only one in the parks.

This is also prime time to experience the US’ numerous bodies of water. Grab a kayak and hit slow-moving rivers for peaceful floats, or opt for lively whitewater routes like the Gauley ( West Virginia ) or the Snake River ( Wyoming ). Lounge on one of the Great Lakes in the Midwest, or let the warm gulf waters along the southern coast lap at your feet.

Other seasons to know about

When it comes to US travel, there are a few weather seasons you should be aware of beyond the standard four, as they could potentially impact your trip depending on your destination.

Hurricane season June to November (Southeast)

Hurricane season runs from June to November, with peak activity happening in August and September. These storms largely affect the Gulf Coast in the southern US (Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida), but some storms also make their way up the east coast to states like South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. Hurricanes can also impact inland destinations, causing issues like flooding and tornados. 

Fire season July to October (Western US)

Fire season occurs in areas regularly affected by drought, so large swaths of the western US are at risk for fire for large parts of the year. July and August are the peak months of fire season, with states like California, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho and Oregon fielding the brunt of the damage. Always check on fire conditions before heading on summer outdoor adventures here.

Tornado season March to June (Plains, Midwest, Southeast)

Tornado season occurs throughout the Great Plains, the Midwest and the southeastern US from March to early June. While these storms have a smaller path of destruction than hurricanes and fires, they spin up quickly and with minimal warning. Consult a forecast before outdoor excursions to see if there’s potential for severe weather.

This article was first published Mar 9, 2021 and updated Aug 21, 2023.

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When is the best time to travel in the US?

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Due to its sheer size and range of landscapes, regional climates across the US vary dramatically from season to season.

Southern California generally enjoys a pleasant year-round climate — mild in winter and hot in summer, making it a great place to visit in any season. Northern California, around San Francisco, is cooler and can be prone to sea mists along the fog belt.

Hawaii enjoys a tropical climate that’s warm and inviting year-round.

The South and Southwest experience hot, humid summers but mild winters and great conditions for outdoor activities in the spring. Hurricanes can affect the Gulf and east coasts most commonly from August to October, while tornadoes can be a common phenomenon in southern and central states in the summer months.

Temperatures in the Rocky Mountains change with altitude, but summers here are generally warm and pleasant, while winters often see heavy snow making travel planning tricky and unpredictable.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in the US

Visiting the US in January - March

Winter is a good time to visit the southern half of the country — including the South , California and the Southwest, with pleasant temperatures and often sunny days. It’s also a better-value and less-busy time to visit. The nights can be cold, particularly in the deserts, but temperatures are ideal during the day for outdoor activities such as hiking and sailing.

Events & Festivals

• Mardi Gras, New Orleans’ biggest festival, culminates on the day before Ash Wednesday, with the largest and liveliest parades and street parties in the preceding few days.
• Saint Patrick's Day (March 17): The Saint Patrick's Day parade is a celebration of all things Irish. Join the party as the city and the river turns green and pints of Guinness can be enjoyed in every bar in Chicago.

Visiting the US in April

If you’re planning to visit the South or Southwest, April is an excellent time to travel, with warm, sunny weather. The national parks, forests and wetlands are lush and vibrant, wildlife is more active, and a variety of events take place in towns and cities as they emerge from winter.

• Baseball season (April to September): The baseball season is long enough to be accessible to many visitors. Catch a game in Chicago, Boston or New York for a quintessential American experience.
• Ski season in Colorado and Utah (April): The peak of the ski season in Colorado and Utah is in April, with more than enough snow covering the ground, coupled with sunny days and pleasant temperatures.

Visiting the US in May

Spring has arrived in most of the country. Sunny days reveal vivid-green vegetation, attractive prairie grasslands and wildlife newly emerged from winter. Mild temperatures mean you can explore in comfort and enjoy outdoor activities.

While Pacific storms can bring Hawaii most of its rainfall in May, the southwestern states are typically warm and dry, making it a good time to explore their natural landscapes. 

• Memorial Day takes place on the last weekend of the month and is recognized with parades and commemoration ceremonies.

Visiting the US in June

June offers the best of both worlds in the northern half of the country, as you can experience warm, sunny days without the crowds of summer. The Rockies are perhaps at their most majestic, national parks are verdant and full of life, while in cities, you can take advantage of the weather at outdoor cafés and restaurants, in parks and gardens, and by following lakeside trails and cycle paths.

It’s also a good time to visit the south, where temperatures are ideal for outdoor and water-based activities like biking, hiking, fishing or sailing. 

• Wildflowers in Colorado (June): The mountains and valleys of Colorado are carpeted in bright wildflowers in full bloom at this time of year.

Visiting the US in July - August

Summer in the northern states is the most comfortable time to explore the outdoors, with many of the region's national parks at their very best. Take a hike into Montana's Glacier National Park , see the steaming geysers of Yellowstone or stay on a ranch in the Rockies. 

In the southern half of the country, the hot summer months are filled with outdoor events, including fourth of July fireworks. The southwest attracts a dry heat and the south eastern states see humidity soar, inviting occasional thunderstorms to break up the heat.

• July 4th celebrations: A day of barbecues, fireworks, carnivals and fun events across the country to recognize the Declaration of Independence.

Visiting the US in September - October

The summer crowds have started to disperse in the southern half of the country by September, making this a quieter, better-value time to visit. However, storms are more prevalent along the eastern and central coast, with the hurricane season producing wet and windy weather. You’ll find less risk of storms further west, where temperatures are still pleasant and it’s a good time to explore the national parks of Utah and California . Meanwhile, Hawaii basks in warm, sunny days and you’ll find fewer visitors than in the summer months.

Visiting the US in November - December

Colder, shorter days mark the arrival of winter, with many areas in the northern half of the country experiencing their first snowfall in November. In southern states, the end of the year is milder and can be inclement in places, with rain showers possible. However, temperatures in the South are still pleasant. 

There’s a noticeable air of anticipation across the country as Thanksgiving, and then Christmas, approaches, when travel becomes much busier.

• New Year’s Eve celebrations: See fireworks filling the sky and enjoy parties across the US.
• Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday of November): A national holiday giving thanks for the harvest and the preceding year, marked with traditional parades in many cities.

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• How to Make a Travel Budget
• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo at Home
• Passport Processing Times - Current Wait in 2024
• Summer Travel Survey & Trends 2024
• Sustainable Travel Survey 2023
• TSA PreCheck Program Guide
• Travel Insurance Buying Guide
• Ultimate Travel Packing List
• Travel Credit Card Reviews
• Travel Credit Card Strategies & Tips
• Amex Platinum Card Benefits
• Amex Gold Card Benefits
• Best Starter Travel Credit Cards for Beginners
• Capital One Venture Card Benefits
• Capital One Venture X Card Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Benefits
• How to Use CardMatch
• Ink Business Unlimited Card Benefits

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

49 Best Travel Tips to Save Time, Money, & Stress in 2024

Traveling locally, across the country, or to another continent is an exciting way to form memories and experience other cultures. But an awry trip can usher in unnecessary stress, expenses, and potential regrets.

These travel tips can help you have a successful trip from the initial planning stages, as you pack your bags, and once you reach your destination. 

Table of Contents

Best Travel Tips While Preparing for a Trip

This collection of tips covers just about everything you should consider when traveling and before you go. You are most likely practicing some of them, making them a good reminder, and others can help prevent uncommon travel surprises.

1. Book At Least Six Weeks in Advance

Instead of carving time out of your schedule to book your trip at a specific date or time (such as Tuesdays at 3 a.m. using a private browsing session to find discounted fares), a more effective strategy is researching travel options at least four to six weeks in advance.

You can still find cheap flights and ideal flight times at least six weeks before departure. Getting on the hunt two or three months before major holidays is also good.  

Last-minute travel savings are possible but you may be unable to get a desired departure time, layover window, or destination. Waiting until the final days can be worth it if you have a flexible schedule and are open-minded about where you travel to.

Learn More: Best Days and Times to Book Flights

2. Travel in the Off-Season or Shoulder Season

Avoiding the peak travel season is one of the easiest ways to pay less for flights and lodging. You also will enjoy smaller crowds and the weather can still be decent for your intended activities.

For example, visiting Spain is delightful in March and April but travel prices are elevated during Semana Santa (Holy Week) when most cities have processions that virtually shut down the city.

Another example is visiting a beach town during the shoulder season. The shoulder season is the time between the peak and the offseason. So you could take a trip to Cape May, NJ from the middle of May to the end of June instead of during the July/August peak. The weather is still good enough during the shoulder season to enjoy most peak-season activities.

3. Compare Multiple Booking Sites

Comparing prices from several travel booking sites can help you find the best rate within minutes. Airlines, hotels, and rental cars offer several slots to third-party booking sites and you can pay less than booking directly from the carrier.

It’s worth your time to check prices directly from the carrier website but also from one or more third-party booking sites (online travel agencies or OTAs) like Hotels.com , Kayak , or Google Flights .

The Vacationer Tip

Along with looking for the best flight schedule and prices, you can use our guide to help find the best seats on the plane and book them for cheap or for free.

4. Book Directly from the Travel Provider

While you can find discounted prices through online travel agencies and third-party booking sites, booking directly from the airline, hotel, or rental car agency provides more protection if you must cancel or reschedule. This is especially important for flights and the 24-hour cancellation rule .

With third-party reservations, you may be locked into a particular itinerary that could be non-refundable or non-changeable. You will need to call the booking site to determine what your alternatives are. If you’re eligible for a refund, it can take longer to receive your funds.

5. Stay at a Hostel to Save Money

Hostels are a common and safe way to secure affordable lodging in Europe and Asia. If you’re traveling solo or in a group and okay with not having as much privacy, a hostel helps keep your travel costs down. 

Despite many misconceptions, most establishments are well-run with clean bathrooms and bedding. You may also be able to get a basic breakfast at some. With that said, be sure to research your options and consider paying a little more to get more luxurious accommodations.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Staying in a Hostel

6. Consider Vacation Rentals for Extended Stays

Vacation rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO have become immensely more popular since the pandemic as people yearned for privacy. While hotels are usually better for shorter stays as you avoid expensive cleaning fees and service fees, a vacation home or villa can be more cost-effective for extended stays.

At a minimum, a rental or an extended-stay hotel is more likely to offer a full kitchen suite that allows you to cook full meals instead of relying on packaged snacks or what fits inside the hotel mini-fridge. 

Vacation rentals can also be cheaper per square foot if traveling as a family. Instead of squeezing into a hotel suite or booking multiple rooms, you have spacious accommodations. If you have small children, the extra space can keep you from losing your mind on rainy days.

The Vacationer’s Tip: While many people focus on spending less for flights, hotels and vacation rentals can have variable pricing. Here is how to find and book cheap hotels to enjoy clean and spacious lodging on a budget.

7. Buy Travel Insurance for Expensive or International Trips

Travel insurance is inexpensive on most itineraries and can save you thousands of dollars if your non-refundable travel is canceled or delayed for qualifying reasons. 

Obtaining coverage is a good option for expensive trips. Picking up a policy can also be worth it when traveling outside the United States as you can have medical coverage and emergency evacuation benefits that your ordinary health insurance may not provide outside the country.

You should also consider booking your trips using credit cards with travel insurance coverage . These benefits are sufficient for low-cost excursions and can activate before your standalone travel insurance policy can. They can also provide complimentary rental car coverage .

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers the best credit card travel insurance benefits. Namely, you can be eligible for trip interruption and cancellation coverage of up to $10,000 per person ($20,000 per trip), primary auto rental collision damage waiver, up to $500 per ticket in trip delay reimbursement, and up to $100,000 in emergency evacuation  Learn How to Apply Here

8. Consider Annual Travel Insurance Plans

If you travel regularly, an annual travel insurance policy covers multiple trips at a lower premium than buying a new policy for each trip. This is an excellent option for frequent leisure travelers and business travelers.

9. Review Airline and Hotel Cancellation Policies

Your travel plans may change unexpectedly for personal or work reasons. Before you book, take the time to review the cancellation and modification policies just to make sure they are reasonable.

You want to make sure you have a strong possibility of getting a refund or a travel credit to redeem later. Being locked into a non-refundable itinerary may not be worth the savings unless you’re booking right before you go or your travel insurance may issue a refund.

In addition to researching the cancellation policy, be sure to review an airline’s seating and carry-on policy to avoid add-on fees and restrictions. 

10. Choose Early Flights

Early morning flights are the best time to fly for several reasons. First, these departures are less likely to be delayed as it’s a new travel day with rested crews and minimal weather-related interruptions. 

Additionally, these flights can be cheaper as you need to arrive at the airport a little earlier. Routes popular with business travel can be an exception to this rule, but you can anticipate paying less than for a mid-day sortie.

Learn More: How to Avoid Flight Delays and Cancellations

11. Arrive at the Airport Early

Photo: Pixabay

Getting to the airport at least an hour before departure for domestic flights at small airports or when you’re not checking luggage. Plan on arriving at least two hours for domestic flights at busy airports, if you’re checking a bag, or traveling with small children.

What about international flights? Plan on arriving at least three hours before departure to allow additional time for a potentially longer check-in time.

Learn More: How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

12. Qualify for Expedited Airport Security 

If you fly several times a year, obtaining expedited airport security credentials can help you avoid long airport security lines. 

The first step is applying for a federally-administered Trusted Traveler Program, such as:

• TSA PreCheck : Enjoy expedited security at domestic airports only.  
• Global Entry : Get expedited processing at customs lines on international flights plus TSA PreCheck benefits. 
• NEXUS : Ideal for travel between the U.S. and Canada. It also includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits. 

Several rewards credit cards are offering free Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fee credits to save a few dollars.

In addition to Trusted Traveler programs, you can also shave a few minutes off security wait times with CLEAR at select major airports and stadiums. Where available, this pre-security program can help you reach the expedited TSA security lines sooner. 

Getting a Redress Number can help those who frequently have boarding pass issues, are subject to additional security screenings (including having SSSS on their boarding pass ), and those who experience delayed or denied boardings.

Learn More: How to Get Through TSA Airport Security Faster

13. Relax at an Airport Lounge

If you have a long layover or arrive at the airport several hours later, visiting an airport lounge (like a Centurion Lounge ) can help you grab a complimentary meal and drink, and recharge your devices. You can also have a comfortable place to sit and the luxury lounges offer spa treatment, sleeping rooms, and shower suites to clean up.

Single-day passes are pricey but there are several credit cards with lounge access . Most lounges allow entry for the primary cardholder and up to two guests complimentary up to three hours before your next flight’s departure.

Airport lounge access is just one way to reduce air travel stress . Check out our article for additional suggestions. 

14. Check Your Passport Expiration Date

Some countries and airlines won’t let you travel if your passport expires within six months. If you’re planning a trip, see if your passport is expiring soon to prevent delaying your trip.

Consider renewing your passport early if you’re approaching the six-month expiration window as the passport processing times can take up to 13 weeks to receive your new document. You can pay extra for expedited processing but the process can still take several weeks.

After submitting your renewal request, you can check your passport application status online .

Finally, use our How to Take Your Own Passport Photo guide to simplify things when applying or renewing.

15. Don’t Go Into Debt for Vacation

As much as you’re earning to get away on a dream trip, it’s probably not worth going into debt for. Whether your bank is offering a vacation loan or you intend on carrying a credit card balance (even with a 0% APR), borrowing money to travel can backfire.

Instead, look for the best options within your spending power. Consider setting aside money each month and delaying your trip if necessary.

In addition to saving up for travel in a dedicated savings account, you can use travel rewards credit cards to redeem points to defray purchases. Some cards offer annual statement credits that reimburse eligible travel bookings. 

Additionally, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards also offer complimentary benefits to spend less.  

Making a travel budget can help you plan for travel expenses so you’re not nervous about running out of cash while you travel or having regrets once you return home.

16. Exercise and Stretch

Once you depart for your trip, be sure to stretch and perform basic exercises as time and space permit. It can be as basic as stationary stretches while sitting in your seat to walking the airport terminal. If driving, stay outside for a few extra minutes at the gas station or rest area.

Stretching and being active once you arrive is also beneficial and can help you sleep better.

Best Travel Tips for Packing

17. only bring a carry-on.

When possible, only bring a carry-on to avoid lost or missing checked luggage. You can also avoid checked baggage fees and excessive weight charges if you overpack. Using the best carry-on can help you find the perfect soft or hard-sided luggage to fit your travel gear.

If you need to check a bag, it most likely won’t get lost but could get delayed. Here’s our helpful guide on what to do during baggage delays .

18. Pack as Light as Possible

Packing is stressful; Many people overpack to ease their anxiety, which sometimes means bringing extra suitcases or paying to check a bag. Write down everything you think you need on your packing list. After it’s complete, cut it down to the bare minimum.

Pack underwear and socks for the number of showers you expect to take; Add an emergency pair for every five or so days of your trip. Shirts and pants can usually be worn multiple days in a row. If your accommodation has a washing machine, you can pack even less.

19. Carry-On Overnight Travel Essentials

You never know when a flight delay will turn into spending the night in the terminal or at a nearby hotel. While the airline may provide meal vouchers, you should pack these travel essentials to freshen up:

• A change of clothes, especially extra underwear and socks
• Powerbank (they cost about $20 and have several phone/tablet recharges)
• Travel charger

Even if you’re not stuck somewhere overnight, these small and compact items can also help you rest while on the road:

• Earplugs (great for plane rides and noisy hotels)
• Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones
• Travel blanket
• Travel pillow (see the best travel neck pillows )

Adding these carry-on essentials to your packing list can prepare you for nearly any change of plans and to weather a long layover or flight. 

20. Don’t Forget a Power Adapter

A power adapter is essential in most foreign destinations to charge your devices. Traveling to Canada or Mexico is an exception as the standard voltage is 120v and these countries have the same outlet design as the United States. Check to see the adapter requirements for the country you are visiting before leaving.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler recently visited South Africa and needed a Type M adapter. He purchased this Ceptics International Power Plug Adapter Travel Set , which includes 13 adapters for just about every foreign country.

21. Use Packing Cubes

There are a couple of ways to organize your travel luggage to squeeze everything in. Your bag may include built-in storage compartments or you might roll up clothing and put them in packing cubes or vacuum storage bags. If you’re on a budget, rubber bands or plastic bags can also do the job. I recommend the following packing cubes: Veken 6 Set of Various Colored Packing Cubes .

Packing for a vacation can feel like a fine art at times, even as a seasoned traveler. Our travel packing list can cover everything you need to bring so you don’t forget and have to buy something along the way.

22. Bring an Empty Water Bottle

For over 20 years, it’s become ingrained for air travelers to pack liquids in containers containing no more than three ounces. This security rule means you can’t bring a filled water bottle through airport security, but you can bring an empty one.

Most airports have filtered water dispensers in the post-security terminal that you can fill up your bottle with and avoid paying big bucks for bottled water. You also won’t struggle to stay hydrated during your journey.

If you’re driving, consider bringing a travel water filter or a portable filter that you can use in your hotel room to pay pennies for filtered water.

23. Dress Comfortably for the Flight

You should dress comfortably for the plane ride. Dressing in layers with a light jacket or a travel blanket can help you stay warm if the cabin is cool. Bringing travel slippers or slip-on shoes on long-haul flights is another overlooked comfort hack. Wear sweatpants instead of jeans.

24. Bring Duplicate Travel Documents

Take a few minutes to photocopy your critical travel documents such as your government-issued IDs and passport. Be sure to keep these papers separate from your originals in case one set gets lost.

Once you arrive at your destination, you may decide to go out in public with your duplicates and keep your originals plus at least one payment card in the room safe. That way, a pickpocket doesn’t run off with the more valuable set and you still have a way to make purchases. 

Taking it a step further, write down your credit card numbers and the emergency contact number if you need to call and cancel if your plastic goes missing. If you don’t have a phone number, you can also look for a pay phone that should have a toll-free number to contact Visa or Mastercard to cancel your card.

25. Keep Valuables at Home and Bring a Lock

Unless it’s necessary to bring them along for a business function or a personal event, leave your valuables at home. The hassle of keeping them secure and the risk of losing them may not be worth the replacement cost. 

This includes your fine jewelry, watches, and high-end electronics that are nice to use but optional for this trip. Additionally, these items can make you a target for thieves.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler also recommends bringing a luggage lock or a standard combination lock.

26. Install a Luggage Tracking Device

Bluetooth tracking devices like the Apple AirTag are a small and easy way to see where your carry-on and checked luggage are at all times. A single piece is about the size of a coin and costs $30 or less.

27. Bring Comfy Walking Shoes

Most of the world walks more steps than we do daily. Therefore, it’s essential to pack at least one pair of comfortable shoes or sandals to stroll the streets of your destination. Comfortable footwear is also a must-have if you’re staying stateside.

28. Keep a Travel Journal

Consider packing a notebook or diary into your carry-on. Handwriting your favorite travel memories in a journal is an easy way to remember the intricacies that you may struggle to remember years later when you reflect. 

For example, you can write down what you did each day along with exciting facts. Having everybody share their favorite activity for the day is another way to use this journal.

Best Travel Tips for Once You Arrive

29. learn the local customs.

Words and expressions can have different meanings where you’re traveling to. It’s also a good idea to know some of the common phrases and customs the locals practice so you can have a basic conversation.

You can research these details online or in a guidebook.

30. Dress As a Local

Blending in with the crowd can help prevent unwanted attention from panhandlers and pickpockets. For example, don’t wear revealing clothing when the culture favors pants or long dresses. Researching fashion advice for your destination is your best option.

31. Be Wary of Local Scams

Brushing up on the latest tourist scams can help you avoid bad situations. A recent travel guidebook is a reliable way to find the most common tactics for your destination. Two to look out for are unofficial taxis and fake wifi hotspots. 

32. Consider Wearing a Money Belt

Long-time travelers have a love-hate relationship with money belts as they point you out as a tourist if you’re constantly reaching for it in public. Additionally, wearing the belt all day can be a nuisance as it’s an extra layer of fabric you’re not used to.

At the same time, it’s harder to steal a money belt than to grab something from your pockets or purse. They are also inexpensive to buy on Amazon and don’t take up a lot of suitcase space if you decide not to use it.

33. Download Travel Apps

Smartphones make international travel substantially easier as you can download various apps before leaving home so you can hit the ground running.

Some types of apps you may consider downloading for these purposes:

• Offline Maps: Many consider Maps.me to be the best offline maps app and more user-friendly than Apple Maps or Google Maps. You may still try getting paper maps from a local tourism office or bookstore once you arrive though.
• Translation: A translator app for traveling can be pre-loaded with basic phrases with offline access. It may also be able to interpret voice recordings and photographs.
• Jet Lag: Flying to the other side of the world takes a toll on your body and sleep cycle. Timeshifter can help you conquer jet lag quicker while traveling and upon returning home.   

Downloading apps for your airline, hotel, and travel booking sites will help you access your digital reservation information and receive itinerary updates. Some travelers also enjoy downloading tourism apps like Tripadvisor or Yelp to quickly access ratings for attractions.

34. Get an International Sim Card or Phone Plan

Your stateside phone carrier may offer an international plan that you can upgrade to while you’re out of the country. Contract carriers and prepaid providers offer this overseas coverage.

Alternatively, an international sim card can be a budget-friendly and reliable option if you visit multiple countries. Just make sure your device is unlocked and GSM-compatible.  

35. Avoid Eating in Touristy Areas  

You’re likely to pay more and potentially get lower-quality food when eating in touristy areas. This isn’t always the case. For example, dining within sight of Rome’s Pantheon is an exception as there are well-rated restaurants for a memorable ambiance.

However, going a few streets over or to an adjacent community can be the ticket to finding authentic food. Asking your hotel or trustworthy locals can help you find a good spot in addition to researching places to eat online.

36. Lunch Can Be Cheaper than Supper

If you’re only planning on eating out one meal per day, your mid-day meal can be more affordable than in the evening. 

Depending on the restaurant, there can be separate menus for the bar and dining room. Staying in the bar can be more affordable and your meal options can be similar.

37. Use American Chains for Public Restrooms and Wifi

Finding a public bathroom can be challenging in foreign destinations. American restaurants like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Taco Bell are more likely to offer public access to restrooms and wifi, although you may need to make a small purchase.

38. Look for Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are common in popular tourist destinations both stateside and internationally. These tours can last a couple of hours and hit the cultural and historical points of interest. They can provide an idea of what you want to spend more time exploring later.  

While these tours don’t have an entry fee, nothing in life is genuinely 100% free ,and leaving a tip is expected in most situations. You may decide to tip more if the guide is knowledgeable and engaging.

39. A Paid Tour Can Be Better Than a Free Tour

You should also compare the free tours to private, guided tours. A paid tour can provide more hands-on support and access to more landmarks. 

In addition to researching the traditional tour providers, the experiences section in Airbnb can also provide curated opportunities to see the sights, enjoy culinary delights, or do physical activities like paddleboarding or folk dancing. 

Further Reading: Best Websites for Booking Cheap Tickets, Tours, & Activities

40. Look for Discounted Sightseeing Passes

Museums and entertainment attractions offer discounted and priority admission with sightseeing pass companies. So, instead of buying tickets directly from the tourist attractions you wish to visit, purchasing a city attraction card in advance can save money and means you won’t need to wait for hours (potentially) to buy a ticket at the door.

For domestic trips, CityPASS® offers discounted packages in approximately 15 major U.S. cities. Entertainment.com can also help you save on experiences in the United States and Canada.

If you’re flying to the “Eternal City” of Rome, Italy, the Roma Tourist Card is worth the upfront cost as you can enjoy these benefits:   

• Skip-the-line access at the Roman Colosseum
• Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
• Access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• Audio guides for the Pantheon and Rome
• Free return transfer to or from Rome’s international airports (Ciampino and Fiumicino)
• 10% discount on other attractions, museums, and tours

Depending on the program, you may need to book your pass weeks in advance.

41. Get an Interrail Pass for a Eurotrip

If you’re backpacking Europe or touring several countries, an Interrail Pass from Eurail can make it easier to finalize your transportation plan using an interactive map. This platform lets you visit up to 33 countries by rail with a single pass. 

42. Have a Flexible Travel Schedule

Mapping out an initial plan for each day can help you seize the day and optimize your time of playing tourist. Meanwhile, remaining flexible is pivotal as several variables can alter your itinerary such as:

• A change in the weather
• Accomplishing more than you originally scheduled 
• Making friends with other travelers and having dinner with them
• Realizing a planned activity isn’t as appealing once you arrive 

Another related suggestion is to get out and explore the city and the immediate area on your arrival date (time permitting) so you have a better idea of what to do the next day.

43. Wear Sunscreen Early and Often For Beach & Outdoor Trips

There is nothing worse than getting a bad sunburn at the beginning of a trip. Find a good facial sunscreen and buy a travel-sized container. Apply it to your face and neck a few times per day. For beach trips, either cover up with a hat and clothing or apply strong sunscreen to your body multiple times per day. While it may be annoying, it is much better than dealing with painful and peeling sunburn.

Sunscreen is usually marked up at typical tourist spots. If you check a bag, consider buying what you need before leaving and packing it.

44. Use an ATM Instead of a Currency Exchange Booth

Instead of heading directly to the currency exchange booth at the airport or train terminal, look for an ATM instead. Several should be in the public terminals or you can look for a local bank branch to find a secure location.

Why? ATMs provide better currency exchange ratios than the money exchange booth. Even if you pay foreign transaction fees and non-network ATM fees, you will most likely come out ahead financially speaking.

45. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

Many travel-focused credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , and The Platinum Card from American Express do not have foreign transaction fees. Use cards like those when traveling internationally to avoid potentially expensive fees.

46. Bring at Least One Backup Credit Card

Getting stuck on vacation with no access to money (besides cash) is not something you want to experience; Your main credit card could get lost or stolen. Carry at least one backup credit card (ideally with no foreign transaction fees if overseas) on all trips.

Phil Dengler’s Favorite Travel Tips

Here are a few of Phil’s favorite travel tips.

47. Be Very Flexible – Pick Your Travel Dates Based on the Cheapest Days to Fly

Flights are usually the most costly part of a vacation. I recommend using Google Flights calendar view to find the cheapest days to fly to and from your destination. After identifying those days, book your airfare. You must be flexible, but it can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars planning a vacation this way.

Further Reading: How to Find Cheap Flights and How to Use Google Flights

48. Book the Aisle and Window Seats When Traveling in Pairs

I always book the aisle and window seats when flying with my girlfriend or a friend. No one wants to sit in the middle seat, so people rarely select it. Doing this usually gives us the entire row to ourselves.

It does not work on full flights, however. The good news is people are usually willing to trade their middle seat. Simply offer them your aisle or window seat and you still get to sit next to your significant other or friend.

Further Reading: Can You (and Should You) Change Airplane Seats With Someone Else on a Flight?

49. Follow Proper Airline Etiquette

Knowing how to properly act on a plane can better your flying experience. See our following guides for more information.

• Airplane Seat Reclining Etiquette
• Overhead Bin Space Etiquette – Who Does it Belong To and How to Avoid Fights

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Taking the time to plan for a vacation, whether it’s the annual beach trip or you’re trying some new place, lets you practice these travel tips and not stress before or during your expedition. 

The best part is that you don’t need to be a travel pro to successfully implement these suggestions. If you’re a beginner, try adopting several more each time you leave home.

By Josh Patoka

Josh Patoka writes about maximizing travel rewards for The Vacationer. As well, he contributes to several personal finance sites specializing in making money, paying off debt, and investing.

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• Travel Tips

The Best Time to Book a Flight for Domestic, International, and Summer Travel

Take these expert tips for booking travel in 2024 and beyond.

When to Book Flights for Domestic Travel

When to book flights for international travel, when to book flights for holiday 2024 travel, when to book flights for summer 2025 travel.

Buying plane tickets is something of an art form. Ideally, you want to secure your spot in advance to avoid the inevitable price spike as your travel dates get closer. Industry data reveals the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is 28 days, or 60 days for international flights. That said, the trends are always changing, and experts recommend booking earlier for peak travel periods like summer and the holiday season.

Flights generally open for booking about a year ahead of time, and the airfare will change often between then and takeoff. Although you can book just a couple of weeks before the departure date in some cases, prices are likely to be astronomical. In other cases, when you want to go somewhere popular or during a big travel weekend, flights could fill up faster than normal. Our advice: Track flight prices on Google Flights or Hopper as early as possible so you can keep an eye on cost fluctuations. Read on for more advice about when to book flights from the pros.

According to Expedia's 2024 Air Travel Hacks report , you should aim to book 28 days before your domestic flight. "Doing so can save travelers up to 24 percent compared to those who wait until the last minute, from zero to six days out," Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson tells Travel + Leisure.

For domestic trips, pricing is elevated when tickets are first released, about a year before the flight. Those prices will slowly creep downward, all the way to their lowest point in the prime booking window, after which you'll likely see a huge increase in cost for last-minute travel.

Meet the Expert

Christie Hudson is a travel expert at top booking site Expedia.

You're better off booking earlier rather than later for international travel, but the Expedia report says ideally no more than four months before your desired departure date. The sweet spot is around 60 days. "This is a big change from 2022 data, which showed the cheapest fares were secured when travelers booked four to six months out." Hudson says. "2023 data revealed that people who booked that far in advance actually paid more on average." The report says the least expensive day of the week to book is Sunday and the most expensive is Friday, for both domestic and international travel.

The real trick to finding good deals on international airfare is to avoid booking your travel for peak times, which include summer and major holidays (don't forget — that includes holidays in your destination, too).

Around the winter holidays is the priciest time to travel, says Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going. "Your best bet is to remember the Goldilocks zones: look to book between three to seven months ahead for domestic travel and four to 10 months ahead for international travel."

Hudson advises that at the very latest, your holiday travel should be booked by mid-October. "But the biggest holiday travel savings actually come from choosing the right dates," she says. "Avoiding the busiest days like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Friday and Saturday before Christmas will yield major savings."

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Track flights and book your holiday tickets as soon as you find a decent deal, but make sure to book a fare that will give you a credit if you cancel (generally speaking, that means don't book basic economy). That way, if prices drop between the time of booking and your travel dates, you can cancel your original ticket and use the credit to book the cheaper fare. The only downside is you'll still have some remaining credit, but you can then use it to treat yourself to a future flight. Just don't let that credit expire.

Summer is traditionally one of the most popular times of the year to travel, which means it can be tough to find a good deal on airfare. Ideally, you should book flights for summer travel as soon as possible, preferably at least six months in advance.

"The best time to book for peak season is … the opposite season," Nastro says. "While most of us are scrambling to focus on our winter holiday plans, we should also keep our eyes open for some great summer fares."

She notes that the booking window for peak season ranges between three and seven months for domestic flights and four to 10 months for international trips. "And if you do book something, keep that flight alert on," says Nastro. "If it drops again, depending on your ticket type, you can call to rebook and get a refund or travel credit back with the difference. Most airlines don't charge for change fees on main economy tickets, meaning you won't be spending more to save."

Related Articles

I've saved thousands on travel this year by maximizing points and miles. But there are lots of things I wish I'd known when I first started.

• I've become something of an expert when it comes to booking trips with points and miles.
• It's usually worth it to spring for a card with an annual fee because they tend to earn more points.
• Keep an eye out for transfer and referral bonuses if you want to easily up your stash.

Points and miles have helped me travel more (and better) this year. In fact, I've already saved thousands of dollars, and it's only September.

I earn some rewards through loyalty programs, but the bulk of my points and miles come from using a variety of credit cards .

If you're new to the game or trying to maximize your points before your next trip, here are some of the best tips I wish I'd known when I first started.

Now is the best time to start

The only real regret I have when it comes to points and miles is not starting sooner.

Getting free travel with points sounded too good to be true, and I didn't want to be scammed. But once I started looking into it more seriously, I saw it for the money-saving hack that it is.

If you're considering upgrading to a credit card with a better points system, my best advice is to do it sooner rather than later. Waiting around will only cost you potential points.

The card's travel portal doesn't always have the best deals

The first time I used my points, I purchased airline tickets through my credit card's travel portal . But I now know that's rarely a good approach.

I likely could've gotten the same tickets for less if I had transferred my points and redeemed them through the airline directly.

Cards with annual fees almost always end up paying for themselves

I used to think paying an annual fee for a credit card was a terrible idea. But these more prestigious cards typically offer more points and better signing bonuses.

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Even my highest annual fees are easily offset by the value of the points I earn with the card. It still hurts to pay a lump sum, but I know it's a good investment.

Diversifying your cards can help you save even more

Major card issuers, like Chase, American Express, and Capital One, have different travel partners. For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards can be transferred to United Airlines and Hyatt.

Having a large number of points with one account can be beneficial, but it sometimes limits how you can maximize the points' value.

I try to earn with a few different credit cards to diversify the payoff. That way, I can have pools of transferrable points for flights, hotel stays , and other broad travel categories.

Transfer bonuses are a gold mine for points

Travel partners will periodically offer bonuses for transferring points from your card to their program.

For example, under a recent promotion, transferring from Chase Ultimate Rewards to Marriott Bonvoy earned a 70% bonus — 1,000 credit-card points turned into 70,000 Bonvoy points.

The only downside is that the points can't be transferred back. I like having flexibility, so I'm usually reluctant to transfer. But since Marriott has nice hotels worldwide, taking advantage of its generous bonus is kind of a no-brainer.

Miles are meant to be spent, not hoarded

At first, I was obsessed with accumulating points and miles. But I quickly saw the value of my stash diminish as airlines and hotels raised the number of points they required for bookings.

Now, I "earn and churn" my points by using them in a timely fashion unless I'm saving up for a big trip.

Points can offset transaction fees

I used to avoid paying with a card if I was going to have to cover a transaction fee . I didn't see the point in paying an extra 2% when I could use cash.

But I've learned that it makes sense to pay a little more if the value of the points outweighs the additional cost. It takes a little math, but it helps me maximize my earnings.

Points and miles aren't the only perks that come with credit cards

The main reason I use credit cards is to earn points and miles. But many of the cards in my wallet come with other perks, too, and they shouldn't be overlooked.

For example, my Amex regularly offers money-off deals on movie tickets.

Because of my laser-like focus on earning rewards, I didn't pay enough attention to these other perks and missed out on some good deals.

Know where your card earns the most points

Many credit cards earn more rewards in certain categories, such as restaurants or gas.

It took me too long to really start paying attention to which of my cards would earn me the most points. For example, one of mine gives triple points at restaurants , but when the bill came, I'd forget and reach into my wallet to grab any old card.

Now, I make sure to use the cards for their intended purposes to earn more points on every purchase.

Getting your friends on board helps everyone earn more points

Many credit cards offer a bonus to current cardholders for referring friends.

I was reluctant to encourage friends to open credit cards. But when they started asking me how I travel so frequently , I had an easy in to send them my referral link.

If they signed up, I'd get a nice bonus, and they'd start earning their own miles — it's a win-win.

Don't overthink it

The more seriously I get into the points and miles game, the more I find myself painstakingly analyzing the best deals. But if I overcomplicate these decisions too much, I'm probably going to burn out and waste my hard-earned stash.

At the end of the day, I'm grateful that these perks have allowed me to travel more, even if I don't catch every bonus deal or extra point.

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This 'Terminator' Interquel Broke James Cameron's Rules of Time Travel

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With Terminator Zero about to hit Netflix, there's no time like the present to revisit The Terminator ' s extensive history and lore. When Terminator 2: Judgment Day hit theaters in 1991, it's unlikely that James Cameron knew what sort of success he had on his hands. Uniting a powerful cast that included Arnold Schwarzenegger , Linda Hamilton , Edward Furlong , and Robert Patrick , T2 surpassed the original 1984 film in nearly every way — completely blowing expectations out of the water for audiences and critics alike. Still considered by some to be the greatest action flick of all time, Judgment Day spawned a plethora of sequels and imitations that never quite lived up to the original. One of these very "sequels" came from the mind of James Cameron himself in the form of the Universal Studios theme park attraction, T2-3D: Battle Across Time . Yes, it was real, and it interfered with Cameron's entire continuity.

What Is 'T2-3D: Battle Across Time' Anyway?

It's hard to believe that a theme park like Universal Studios could conjure up such a blockbuster filmmaker to helm their next big attraction, but that's exactly what Universal did with James Cameron for Battle Across Time . Framed as a continuation of Terminator 2 , it was the theme park's (and, by extension, the studio's) idea to "integrate a film show with a live show," as Cameron himself put it in The Making of Terminator 2-3D: Battle Across Time . This meant that an entire short film was made for Battle Across Time , reuniting Cameron with his four principal cast members from Judgment Day. This also meant a live show team would exist in Universal Studios itself, playing the same characters audiences just saw on the screen. It took Cameron and his crew three weeks of night shoots in the Arizona desert to put together the immersive 12-minute short, which cost $24 million to bring to life (via Orlando Sentinel ). Constructing a massive Future War set, Battle Across Time became the closest thing we got to seeing Cameron's vision of the dark Skynet-ruled future at the very center of the story.

As far as the story is concerned, the plot of Battle Across Time picks up not too long after T2 , presumably a year later per the 1996 release date (though Judgment Day was released in 1991, the film takes place in 1995.) As Sarah and John infiltrate a Cyberdyne Systems lab with full intentions of blowing it to kingdom come, a T-1000 arrives in the past to ensure Skynet's future. Just then, Schwarzenegger's T-800 returns, rescues John, and brings him forward through time where they escape the liquid metal Terminator and take the fight to Skynet. Upon entering the pyramid-shaped central control, it's discovered that Skynet is guarded by a massive liquid metal Terminator called the T-1000000. First sending John back to the present 90s with his mother, the T-800 proceeds to sacrifice itself to destroy the computer program and save not just the past but ending the Future War as well. Sarah's final narration echoes that of Terminator 2 , in which she notes that she owes the Terminator her life for saving her son and the world.

This Mini-Sequel Recaptures the Magic of 'Judgment Day'

There's no denying that T2-3D: Battle Across Time manages to recapture some of the magic of James Cameron's first two Terminator films. These movies, despite taking place in the past (1984 and 1995, respectively,) always focused on the fate of humanity in the future. Running with this theme, Cameron and company (which included John Bruno and the infamous Stan Winston , who served as his co-director) expertly crafted a story with immense fan service. We had long seen flashbacks of Kyle Reese's ( Michael Biehn ) time in the future, just like the opening sequence of T2 , which offered us a picture of what John Connor would become. But never had we seen our present-day heroes interact with the Future War themselves. Battle Across Time offers us a chance to see the Future War in all its chaos , and how our heroes might engage in mortal combat against Skynet itself.

Not only does Battle Against Time follow the themes of Judgment Day , but the characters continue to feel like natural progressions of themselves . Sarah and John have continued the present-day war against Skynet , hoping to stop the artificial intelligence from ever being born. The T-1000 is as threatening as ever and the T-800, well, he's learned a few more jokes since he lowered himself into the vat of molten lava. Technically, this T-800 isn't the same one we knew from before, but if Sarah and John really did change parts of the future, perhaps this Terminator was sent back by a future John to ensure present John was comfortable with the machine after his previous adventures.

Beyond just the short film itself, there was plenty to love about the entire T2-3D: Battle Across Time attraction as well. Though the last one closed in 2020, the Terminator -inspired theater contained memorials to the fallen Miles Dyson ( Joe Morton ), a brief cameo from Dr. Silberman ( Earl Boen ), and plenty of Cyberdyne T-series models that have yet to be fully operational. The full production itself ( which can still be viewed on YouTube ) is very impressive. The way the live show integrates seamlessly with the motion picture event was well-planned by Cameron and his crew, and might even give Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular a run for its money. (Okay, Waterworld is still incredible , but this Terminator attraction certainly gave fans everything and more.)

James Cameron Broke His Own Time Travel Rules With 'Battle Across Time'

While long-time Terminator fans have often considered Battle Across Time to be the "true" sequel to Terminator 2 , there's one glaring plot hole that so many have struggled to forgive. In standard T erminator lore, time travel works in a uniquely unfortunate way . Whenever someone is sent back to the past from the Future War , they are sent back completely naked and nothing dead can enter the time portal, which means that only living creatures can pass. No clothes, no boots, and certainly no motorcycles (not to mention shotguns) would be able to survive the journey through time . The only reason Terminators can go through at all is because of the simulated flesh they wear on their person. This is why both Kyle Reese and Schwarzenegger's Terminator arrived naked in the past, helping these movies secure their standard "R" ratings.

With Battle Across Time , James Cameron either forgot this distinct time-traveling feature or elected to ignore it . As the T-800 jumps back through time to the present, he does so fully clothed, riding a motorcycle. Likewise, when he pulls John back to the future with him, both action heroes make it to the Future War with all their clothes still on. This might seem like a small and silly detail, one that doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things. But any die-hard Terminator fan (such as this author) knows better. We know that time travel means clothes are ripped apart, and mechanics like vehicles and weapons are shredded, with only the naked bodies of our heroes making it through. That's the way it's always been, and the way, according to the original film, it should be. Perhaps it sounds ridiculous, but there's a practical and story-based reason why this is the case.

The 10 Most Rewatchable Arnold Schwarzenegger Movies, Ranked

I totally recall these movies being great.

If time travel in the Terminator franchise allowed the traveler to go backwards or forwards at will, and with any object on their person, what's to stop Skynet from sending back an army of Terminators? Why would the A.I. settle with simply ruling the future? Clearly, by helping invent time travel, the artificial intelligence had something it wanted to change. It's possible that Skynet was hoping to use this technology to change the entire outcome of the war, not just by assassinating John Connor as a boy or in the womb, but by securing its own existence. Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and Terminator: Genisys would elaborate a bit on this idea, but without the living tissue limitation, Skynet would be all-powerful. No doubt, a "family-friendly" attraction such as T2-3D: Battle Across Time wouldn't be allowed to exist at Universal Studios with a naked Eddie Furlong or Arnold Schwarzenegger running around , but at least it would be internally consistent with the lore of the franchise.

'Battle Across Time' Might Not Be Canon, but Was a Welcome James Cameron Follow-up

All of that aside, Battle Across Time has often been praised by fans as a return to form for the franchise, and, as James Cameron's final directorial contribution, the best send-off as an official third Cameron-directed picture wasn't in the cards . Though Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines continued the saga with Arnold Schwarzenegger, Edward Furlong was recast and Linda Hamilton was killed off. Other installments have often been considered lackluster by general audiences (though each has its own merits,) with other films, shows, video games, and comic books all taking a crack at the story. It wasn't until 2019's Terminator: Dark Fate that Cameron would be involved again from a story perspective as the film's producer, reuniting himself once more with Schwarzenegger, Hamilton, and albeit briefly, even Furlong.

It's no secret that Dark Fate was as big a disappointment as any of the other film continuations ( even causing Hamilton to turn her back on the series for good ), thus pivoting the franchise in a new direction. While fans rightfully still fawn over T2: Battle Across Time , there are still other stories in the Terminator universe waiting to be told . The upcoming video game Terminator: Survivors is set to follow a band of humans in a post-Judgment Day world before John Connor builds his Resistance. Likewise, Netflix's Terminator Zero takes the franchise to Japan for a stand-alone story set in the days leading up to the original Judgment Day . Just as Alien and Predator have had to reinvent themselves to stay alive this long, Terminator is now also attempting the same. Here's hoping James Cameron's next potential Terminator project goes back to the franchise's horror roots and recaptures the magic of The Terminator the same way Battle Across Time did with Terminator 2 .

Terminator 2: Judgment Day is available to stream on Paramount+.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Watch on Paramount+

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