Spring Shoulder Season: Where You Should Travel Before The Weather Heats Up

What Is Spring Shoulder Season?

As we head closer to the warmest months of the year, many people already have their eyes on a summer vacation.

But you may just be skipping past one of the best times to travel.

April and May are what is known as spring shoulder season — a period of time right between the off-season and the peak season for many top destinations.

And while the shoulder season brings many perks like cheaper flights and fewer crowds, there’s one perk that is music to a meteorologist's ears: better weather.

Rather than sweltering in the summer heat, you could be enjoying a jaunt around Europe or a beach vacation with the fresh warmth that spring ushers in.

It should be noted, meteorologists can't predict a day's weather beyond about two weeks — so we can't tell you it won’t be rainy for your spring getaway a month from now.

But, we can look at averages to give you an idea of what you might expect if you ditch the hot summer months and try a little spring travel instead.

Let's dive into what it could feel like in some top destinations for spring shoulder season.

Lisbon, Portugal

With temperatures gradually warming up, daylight getting longer and the raininess of the winter and early spring diminishing, May is a great time to visit one of Europe's top destinations — Portugal.

It's capital city boasts an average high temperature in the 70s for the month, making for a refreshing atmosphere for exploration and relaxation. Not to mention that you will also be getting ahead of the summer crowds.

Though you could still see some spring showers, on average, the city only sees 8 days with rain for the month — meaning, the chance of a dry forecast for the majority of your trip is in your favor.

So, what are you waiting for? Shed that jacket and take advantage of cheaper prices and shorter lines ahead of the summer travel boom, while taking in the beauty of Portugal.

Belize City, Belize

Craving something a little more tropical? Try Belize.

April brings the driest month of the year, on average, to Belize City, with high temperatures sitting in the 80s.

And May brings an even better deal. As the country tips the scale into its rainy season, there will be fewer travelers and less expensive accommodations while still remaining much drier than the months ahead.

Athens, Greece

If you like your travel with a heavy dose of history, then Athens is likely high on your list.

There's nothing worse than sweating through your clothes as you try to push through a thick crowd of tourists in an attempt to get one pristine picture of the Parthenon.

So, go in May instead.

Typically, highs linger in the 70s with lows in the upper 50s this time of year (hello, ideal weather!) which by far beats out the searing 90s the city normally sees by July.

National Parks In Utah

Want something a little closer to home?

April and May provide the perfect window for exploring places like Zion and Arches National Parks in Utah.

High temperatures are more mild this time of year, lingering in the 70s and 80s, which is much more ideal for hiking than the sweltering 90s and 100s of the summer.

Plus, smaller crowds make for an overall better experience as you connect with the nature around you.

Savannah, Georgia

There is truly nothing like a slice of the Southeast in the spring.

Savannah has a little bit of something for everyone: history, nearby beaches and restaurants and shops galore — but add in great weather and it's a no brainer.

Traveling in late April and May will slide you in the perfect spot between spring breakers and summer travelers, while also taking advantage of highs in the 70s and 80s.

Not to mention, they are among the driest months of the year, in Savannah-terms at least, so great for taking advantage of outdoor activities.

Caitlin Kaiser graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with both an undergraduate and graduate degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences before starting her career as a digital meteorologist with weather.com.