The European Environment Information and Observation Network

(EIONET) defines traveling off-peak as "traveling outside

rush-hours to avoid overcrowding in public means of transport."

This sounds all too simple and as we might expect - easier said

than done.

For both air and car travel, avoid the crowds by traveling

during the week, especially from Tuesday through Thursday. An

added bonus is that airfares for travel Tuesday through

Thursday are usually cheaper.

Mid-morning and late afternoon flights tend to be less crowded,

plus you can really avoid commute traffic during this time. This

site also offers the load on late-night flights (also known as

red-eye flights for obvious reasons): these flights can help

you avoid traffic but it's only effective if you can sleep

sitting up-right on a plane!

And did you know that traveling off-peak means traveling during

holidays (not before or after) when airfares are lower and

there's less road traffic?

Some of the most affordable travel deals of the year can be

found in the fall. If you find super off-peak dates that fall

between major holidays, strike while the iron is hot. Book

immediately with your discount travel broker. Never hesitate!

One great example of saving money by traveling off-peak is

flying to the Caribbean during the North American winter months

rather than during summer. You might say what's the point in

going to the Caribbean in winter when you're going there to

savor the beaches? But the fact is, there is hardly such a

thing as winter in the Caribbean as it stays warm most of the

year. In fact, it's not a good idea to fly there during the

peak season (I.e., summer months) as this is the period when

the hurricanes usually come.

By traveling off-peak, not only will you get cheaper flights

and accommodations. You will also gain a difference perspective

on travel - especially the added advantage of enjoying your

dream destinations without huddling with the masses of tourists

during holidays.

It also helps to subscribe to online newsletters of discount

air travel brokers such as Jestgo or WesJet. By having yourself

included in these companies' mailing list, you can get your

hands on off-peak travel promotions faster than those who

didn't. So you see, it's not just the air miles!

Finally, book your flight early to secure the most gains from

traveling off-peak. One year's planning can certainly help you

reap the reward of the cheapest airfares possible! On the other

hand, booking last minute can also have its rewards. If you're

the kind who can leave at a moment's notice, you can save a lot

from last-minute flights and accommodations. After all, airlines

and hotels would rather greatly discount their seats and rooms

than leave them empty!