A growing number of travellers are opting for off-peak holidays in South Africa.
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Rising living costs are changing the way South Africans travel, with more people embracing off-peak holidays as a practical and affordable alternative to traditional peak-season getaways.
As consumers become more budget-conscious, travellers are prioritising value, flexibility and meaningful experiences, making off-peak travel one of the biggest travel trends of 2026.
According to statistics shared by the Holiday Club, travel during low and medium seasons has increased steadily in recent years.
In 2025, low-season travel reached 24 642 travellers, while medium-season travel climbed to 32 290 travellers, reflecting growing demand for year-round travel opportunities.
Wayne Beekman, director at the Beekman Group, said the rising cost of living is encouraging travellers to rethink when and how they holiday.
He noted that more travellers are choosing off-peak holidays as they plan trips more carefully for both financial and lifestyle reasons.
“The spike in the cost of living has made travellers more intentional, but this is supported by more flexible work-life arrangements and increased homeschooling options as well.
"There’s definitely been a clear shift towards quieter travel periods where travellers can access premium experiences at greater value, with more space and flexibility,” he explained.
For many travellers, affordability remains the biggest benefit of travelling out of season.
Flights, accommodation, dining and activities are often significantly cheaper outside school holidays and long weekends, allowing holidaymakers to enjoy quality experiences at a fraction of the usual cost.
To help you get the most out of off-peak season, here are five tips for hassle-free travel:
Travelling out of season can offer excellent value, but weather conditions may differ. Research the climate and available activities beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Choose flights and accommodation with flexible cancellation or amendment policies. This provides peace of mind if plans need to change unexpectedly.
Midweek travel is often cheaper and quieter than weekends, helping travellers save even more while avoiding crowds.
Off-peak travel may bring cooler temperatures or unpredictable weather. Comfortable shoes, layered clothing and travel essentials can make the journey smoother.
Some destinations may still experience busy periods due to festivals, sporting events or regional school holidays. Planning ahead can help avoid unexpected price increases.
Beyond financial savings, off-peak travel also offers a more relaxed experience. With fewer crowds at popular beaches, resorts, nature reserves and tourist attractions, travellers are able to enjoy destinations at a slower pace without the stress and congestion associated with peak holiday periods.
The trend is also being driven by changing lifestyles and work habits. The rise of remote work and flexible schedules has made it easier for people to travel outside traditional holiday calendars, while the growing popularity of “bleisure” travel - combining business and leisure - has further boosted demand for quieter travel periods.
Off-peak travel is also appealing to travellers seeking more authentic experiences.
Without the rush of peak-season tourism, visitors often have greater opportunities to connect with local communities, enjoy personalised service and explore destinations more meaningfully.
At the same time, the trend supports more sustainable tourism practices. Spreading travel demand across the year helps reduce pressure on infrastructure, tourism hotspots and natural resources during busy periods, while also creating more consistent income opportunities for tourism operators.
As travellers continue adapting to economic realities and evolving lifestyles, off-peak holidays are becoming more than just an alternative.
In 2026, travelling out of season is quickly becoming the preferred way to explore for South Africans seeking affordable, flexible and stress-free travel experiences.