Travel experts highlight benefits of 'dead weeks' for affordable trips

Europe presents itself as an attractive destination during these dead weeks due to low prices and minimal crowds. Brown commented on Europe's appeal: "Europe in winter can be really magical because you're not worrying about the excessive crowds you'll experience during the summer months with high heat AND high prices."

Deals extend beyond Europe; Mexico, the Caribbean, South America, and Southeast Asia also offer savings during this time. Brown noted that in places like Vietnam and Cambodia, "winter is their high season... but the dollar goes a lot further."

Beyond December's dead weeks, January and February also see reduced travel activity outside of holiday weekends. Melanie Fish from Expedia Group Brands mentioned that Hotels.com refers to this period as 'cold shoulder season,' characterized by plummeting hotel rates.

New York City capitalizes on this lull with deals on dining and accommodations during its Restaurant Week and Hotel Week from Jan. 21 to Feb. 9.

Another dead week occurs post-Labor Day when school resumes in September. According to Expedia data from 2024, airfare tickets cost significantly less than peak summer prices at this time.

In summary, the first two weeks of December offer numerous travel deals due to decreased demand. Travelers can find similar opportunities later in winter or fall.