Growth in shoulder season travel shift identified by Byway

The traditional shoulder travel season is shrinking as the edges of summer expand, flight-free firm Byway suggests.

 

The shift is being driven by more people opting to travel outside the main peak period in favour of fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures. 

 

New data released by the company shows that off-season departures have risen by 50% year on year, with September proving the most popular month - up 60% compared to 2024. 

 

Meanwhile, summer departures have grown at a slower pace, with June up by around 30%. 

 

April to May and September to October were described as the new “sweet spots” 

 

Exploring outside the peak summer months also helps ease pressure on local infrastructure, accommodation and nature spots, while supporting businesses and communities that depend on visitors beyond the summer rush, according to Byway.

 

Company founder Cat Jones said: “We’ve seen demand for overland holidays rise across every category, with particular recent growth in family and off-season travel. 

 

"More people are recognising that it’s not just about getting somewhere, but about how you get there and what you experience along the way. 

 

“Looking ahead to 2026, new sleeper routes are knitting Europe together even more, technology is helping us travel more personally and purposefully, and places and hotels are rewarding those who arrive by train. 

 

“The journey is reclaiming its rightful place at the heart of travel as we move towards holidays that are more meaningful, sustainable and considered.”