Shoulder season booking surge reported by Co-op Holidays

A shoulder season booking surge has been reported by Co-op Holidays with September the most booked month for both last year and this.

Bookings for the end of summer month this year are up 69% over 2024, with October volumes rising by more than 50%.

Meanwhile, transitional months like May and June continue to outpace demand for traditional popular summer bookings, according to the company,

The figures highlight a growing appetite for pre- and post-peak getaways, with customers prioritising better prices, quieter destinations and milder weather, the in-house tour operator for Your Co-op Travel noted.

“Longer summers and warmer autumns, driven by shifting climate patterns, are encouraging holidaymakers to book getaways beyond the traditional peak months,” the firm said.

The operator has expanded its shoulder season offerings to include on October stays in Sorrento, Malta (pictured), Albania and Corfu in response to increased demand.

Head of Co-op Holidays Mark Mitchell said: “Travelling outside the peak summer period has long been a savvy traveller’s secret, but it’s now becoming a mainstream trend.

“We know customers are keen to get the most out of their money, and travelling in the shoulder season is one of the smartest ways to do just that. 

“While short-haul destinations like Malta and Krakow are proving most popular for September, we’re also seeing growing interest in our tours and adventure packages during this time.

“Beyond better prices and fewer crowds, shoulder season travel can offer a richer experience - from seasonal wildlife encounters to local cultural festivals that summer visitors might miss.”