Travel isn't one-size-fits-all. However, when we ask Owners about how they manage their ClubPoints to get the most out of vacation ownership, one tip that many Owners agree on is taking advantage of off-season travel. The off-season consists of the months outside peak travel season when fewer people travel.
With schools in session and major holidays at bay, you'll find fewer crowds and lower prices, and Hilton Grand Vacations Owners' ClubPoints go further. So, if you can make it work, off-season travel is worth considering.
Here's what five Owners had to say about some of their favorite off-season vacation memories — plus, some off-season vacation ideas to inspire your next great vacation.
Hilton Grand Vacations Owners Dish on Off-Season Adventures
"We got married on New Year’s Eve, but we decided to go on our honeymoon only a few weeks later to avoid the peak holiday season.
This allowed us to have a longer honeymoon and stay in a 1-Bedroom Suite in Hawaii versus a Studio. Even with other vacations, we check our destinations' seasonality to see how we can extend or upgrade our experience."
"I do a lot of research and planning during open seasons. For example, we're currently planning a trip to Italy, so I am researching visiting March-April or September-October. Traveling during off-seasons is significantly less expensive, so your points go even further."
"Earlier this year, we took a long weekend and enjoyed a gorgeous ocean view, 3-Bedroom Suite at the well-appointed Ocean 22 by Hilton Grand Vacations in Myrtle Beach. It was off-season but a perfect time for us to enjoy time with our kids and grandkids, and the indoor pool was a great refresher for our five-year-old grandson to ‘remember’ how to swim."
"One of the biggest decisions was when to visit Orlando. We didn't have a lot of criteria, but a few factors were important to us. We wanted: good weather, fewer crowds (if that was even possible), the opportunity to maximize points.
Historically, the month of September has the lowest volume of visitors. The weather is often not too hot or cold, and most importantly, all of the Hilton Grand Vacations Orlando resorts were well within my points range. So, we decided on a September ‘off-season’ trip."
"Next January, you'll definitely find me in Orlando for the 2023 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. Hopefully, I won't bring the cold northern weather with me, and we'll all enjoy sunny January Florida weather."
Where to Travel During the Off-Season
Consider these popular destinations for an unforgettable off-season vacation, whether you're ready to pack your bags and get away now or you’re planning an epic, bucket list-style adventure.
Fall
Autumn brings more than beautifully painted foliage if you think outside the classic fall time destinations. Consider a trip to Hawaii to enjoy paradise before the snowbirds arrive, or you can plan an Italian getaway if you want the best of both worlds. Fall in Italy affords visitors autumnal colors surrounding the region's lake areas and warm Mediterranean waters to spend the day on the beach.
Winter
While Orlando is perennially popular, winter is an ideal time to enjoy this sunny Central Florida city. Mid-January to early spring (before spring break) offers prime weather to enjoy the outdoors, theme parks or events, such as the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions.
Spring
Winter sports enthusiasts flock to Whistler, Canada, during January and February, but don't discount spring in this stunning British Columbia winter wonderland. Snow lovers can enjoy fewer crowds and plenty of fresh powder through early May.
Summer
If you're willing to brave the heat, give summertime in Scottsdale, Arizona, a try. Experience this desert town and escape the heat how you please. From sunrise hot air balloon rides to star gazing at night and indulging your senses at art museums or a spa treatment room, there's something for everyone.
Read "7 Insider Tips for Exploring the National Parks, Monuments and Forests of the Western United States" for more off-season travel inspiration.