The History of Pumpkin Spice and Why It’s Everywhere

Posted on August 27, 2025August 28, 2025 by gigis ramblings

pumpkin spice latte with a pumpkin spice candle in the background

Pumpkin spice seems to pop up everywhere once fall rolls around. From lattes to candles, it’s become the unofficial flavor of autumn. But how did this blend of spices become such a cultural phenomenon? Let’s take a look at its history and why we can’t escape it each year.

Where Pumpkin Spice Began

Pumpkin spice isn’t new. In fact, the blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves dates back centuries. These spices were once considered rare and valuable, imported from faraway places and used in holiday feasts. Early American colonists combined them with pumpkin, which was easy to grow, to create hearty pies and desserts. Over time, this flavor combination became strongly associated with autumn traditions.

Pumpkin Pie and Holiday Traditions

By the 1800s, pumpkin pie had cemented its place on American tables, especially during Thanksgiving. Cookbooks from that era often included recipes calling for a mix of the same warm spices we use today. Families began linking the flavors to celebration, comfort, and seasonal change. This strong association is part of why pumpkin spice feels nostalgic to so many people.

How Pumpkin Spice Became a Modern Trend

The real boom came in 2003 when Starbucks introduced the Pumpkin Spice Latte. At the time, flavored coffee drinks were gaining popularity, but this one struck gold. Its limited availability created excitement and urgency, turning it into a fall tradition almost overnight. Other brands quickly noticed and began releasing pumpkin spice versions of their products, from cookies to cereals.

Why Pumpkin Spice Is Everywhere

Pumpkin spice has grown beyond food and drinks. Now you can find it in candles, air fresheners, and even beauty products. In fact, it is always one of our bestsellers all year round. Part of its success lies in marketing. Companies know that people crave seasonal exclusivity and nostalgia. Pumpkin spice checks both boxes. It taps into cozy fall feelings, family traditions, and the excitement of seasonal change. Plus, social media has helped amplify the craze, turning it into a cultural signal that autumn has officially arrived.

Is Pumpkin Spice Here to Stay?

Some folks roll their eyes at pumpkin spice, but its staying power is undeniable. Each year, the demand grows, and new products hit the shelves. As long as people associate the blend with warmth, comfort, and the start of the holiday season, pumpkin spice isn’t going anywhere.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin spice may have ancient roots, but its modern popularity is a mix of clever marketing and nostalgia. Whether you love it or avoid it, there’s no denying its influence. Each fall, pumpkin spice reminds us that cooler days, family gatherings, and holiday traditions are just around the corner.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

How to Plan a Stress-Free Labor Day Cookout

Posted on August 26, 2025August 27, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Alexander Fox | PlaNet Fox from Pixabay

Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to relax, gather with family, and enjoy the last taste of summer. But hosting a cookout doesn’t have to mean chaos in the kitchen or stress in the backyard. With a little planning, you can enjoy the day just as much as your guests. Here’s how to make it happen.

Plan Your Menu Early

The first step to a smooth cookout is deciding what to serve. Stick with classics like burgers, hot dogs, ribs, or grilled chicken. Add a few side dishes that can be made ahead of time, such as pasta salad, coleslaw, or baked beans.

Don’t forget vegetarian options like grilled veggies, black bean burgers, or fresh fruit platters. Keeping the menu simple helps reduce last-minute stress and ensures there’s something for everyone.

Shop Smart and Ahead of Time

Avoid crowded grocery stores by shopping a few days early. Make a list of everything you’ll need, from meats and marinades to napkins and ice. Buying in advance saves you from scrambling at the last minute and gives you time to prep.

If you’re buying fresh meat, marinate it the night before to save time and boost flavor. For drinks, grab a mix of water, soda, lemonade, and maybe a signature punch.

Prep Before the Big Day

The less you do on the day of your cookout, the better. Chop vegetables, prepare salads, and set up serving dishes the night before. You can even pre-slice burger toppings like tomatoes, onions, and pickles so they’re ready to go.

Set out coolers with ice and drinks early in the morning. This keeps guests from digging through your fridge and lets you focus on the grill.

Keep It Comfortable for Guests

Comfort is key to a stress-free gathering. Provide plenty of seating with folding chairs, picnic blankets, or even hay bales for a rustic touch. Shade is also important, especially in the summer heat. Pop-up tents or umbrellas can make a big difference.

Bug spray and citronella candles help keep pests away, while a Bluetooth speaker with a light playlist sets the mood without overpowering conversation.

Make It a Team Effort

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Guests are often happy to bring a side dish, dessert, or drinks. Assigning small tasks lightens your load and adds variety to the menu.

You can also designate a “grill assistant” to help manage food while you mingle. Hosting doesn’t mean doing everything yourself—it’s about enjoying time with friends and family.

Plan Simple Entertainment

While food is the main attraction, a few games or activities keep everyone entertained. Cornhole, horseshoes, or giant Jenga are always crowd-pleasers. If kids are coming, set up a bubble station, chalk, or water balloons to keep them busy.

Even something as simple as a football or frisbee can keep the fun going all afternoon.

Clean as You Go

The fastest way to lose the joy of a cookout is facing a mountain of dishes at the end. Use disposable plates, cups, and utensils if you want easy cleanup. Set up trash and recycling bins around the yard so guests can toss things as they go.

Wipe down counters and wash a few dishes during lulls in cooking. That way, when the last guest leaves, you won’t feel overwhelmed.

Enjoy the Day

The most important part of a Labor Day cookout is celebrating with the people you love. Once the food is served, put down the spatula, grab a plate, and join the fun. Guests won’t remember if the coleslaw wasn’t perfect—they’ll remember the laughter, conversation, and memories made.

Haunted Hotels You Can Actually Book a Room In

Posted on August 25, 2025August 26, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Spooky season is almost here, and what better way to celebrate than by spending the night in a haunted hotel? Across the country, you’ll find historic spots where ghostly guests reportedly never checked out. If you’re brave enough, you can book a stay and experience the thrills for yourself.

Why Stay in a Haunted Hotel?

Haunted hotels combine history, mystery, and just enough fright to keep your heart racing. These aren’t just old buildings. They’re full of stories, strange noises, and the kind of charm you won’t find at chain hotels.

Plus, booking a stay gives you bragging rights. Anyone can visit a haunted house for Halloween. But only a few spend the night where ghosts might wander the halls.

The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado

Made famous by Stephen King’s The Shining, The Stanley Hotel is one of the most haunted hotels in America. Guests report hearing piano music in empty rooms and seeing flickering lights in the hallways.

If you’re feeling adventurous, book a ghost tour along with your stay. It adds an extra layer of eerie fun to your visit.

The Crescent Hotel – Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Nicknamed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” The Crescent has a chilling history. It once served as a cancer hospital run by a con man. Many believe patients who died there never left.

Today, guests report seeing ghostly figures, hearing footsteps, and feeling sudden cold spots. The hotel leans into its haunted reputation with nightly ghost tours.

The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California

This retired ocean liner turned hotel is a hotspot for paranormal activity. The Queen Mary is said to be haunted by sailors and passengers who died at sea.

The ship offers haunted attraction tours and paranormal investigations. You can even sleep in the cabins where spirits have been spotted. It’s a unique blend of history and hauntings.

Hotel Monteleone – New Orleans, Louisiana

Right in the French Quarter, Hotel Monteleone is elegant and eerie. Guests have reported ghostly children running through the hallways and playful spirits tugging on sheets.

Despite the hauntings, the hotel is luxurious and charming. It’s perfect for travelers who want a spooky stay with comfort.

The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana

Known as one of the most haunted homes in America, The Myrtles Plantation is now a bed-and-breakfast. Legend says at least a dozen spirits roam the grounds, including a servant named Chloe.

Guests often spot figures in mirrors or catch mysterious orbs in photos. Staying here feels like stepping into another time.

Jerome Grand Hotel – Jerome, Arizona

Perched on a hillside in an old mining town, the Jerome Grand Hotel has a chilling backstory. It was once a hospital where many patients passed away.

Guests report eerie voices, moving objects, and lights that flicker on their own. With its old-time charm and ghostly reputation, it’s perfect for thrill seekers.

Tips for Booking a Haunted Hotel Stay

If you’re ready to book, keep these tips in mind:

Do your research – Some rooms are more haunted than others.
Book early – Spooky season fills up fast.
Bring an open mind – You may not see a ghost, but the atmosphere alone is unforgettable.
Pack a flashlight – Just in case the lights start flickering.

Final Thoughts

Staying in a haunted hotel is more than a Halloween thrill. It’s a chance to walk through history, hear spooky tales, and maybe even meet a ghost or two. Whether you’re looking for luxury with a twist or a truly spine-chilling night, these hotels deliver.

So, if you’re brave enough, book your room this spooky season. Who knows—you might check in with more company than you planned.

Why Incense Belongs in Your Home

Posted on August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

At Mama Crow’s, we’re always looking for new ways to help you bring comfort, calm, and a little magic into your daily life. Recently, we added incense to our lineup, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you.

A New Layer of Ambiance

You might already know us for our wax melts, which fill your home with warmth and fragrance. Incense offers something a little different. While wax melts slowly release scent as they melt, incense creates an immediate, sensory experience. The soft curl of smoke, the rich aroma, and the ritual of lighting it all combine to transform a space almost instantly.

Why People Use Incense

People use incense for a variety of reasons, and it’s not just about making a room smell good. Many light incense to create a calming atmosphere during meditation, yoga, or quiet reflection. The scents can help reduce stress, promote focus, and even inspire creativity. Others use it to add a cozy or festive touch to their home, enhancing a gathering or quiet evening.

Some people are drawn to incense for spiritual or ritual purposes. Lighting incense has been a part of human tradition for thousands of years—whether in temples, homes, or personal practice—to invite tranquility, clarity, or intention into their lives.

Our Approach at Mama Crow’s

We chose our incense selection with care, focusing on scents that are both comforting and captivating. Each stick is designed to offer a sensory experience that can uplift your mood, enhance your space, or just help you unwind after a long day. Whether you’re a long-time incense user or trying it for the first time, we wanted to create something approachable, high-quality, and just plain enjoyable.

Give It a Try

If you haven’t experienced incense before, now’s the perfect time. Light a stick, take a deep breath, and let the scent carry you somewhere calm and comforting. It’s a simple way to add a touch of ritual and beauty to everyday life.

Early Fall Bucket List Ideas for Families

Posted on August 23, 2025August 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

When the summer heat finally eases and fall makes its first appearance, families often look for ways to enjoy the season. Early fall is the perfect time to spend more time outdoors, slow down, and create memories before the holiday rush begins. The best part? You don’t need a big budget or elaborate plans. These bucket list ideas are simple, realistic, and fun for the whole family.

Go on a Nature Walk

Early fall brings cooler temperatures and the first signs of changing leaves. A nature walk is an easy way to get outside without much planning. Local parks, trails, or even your neighborhood work just fine. Encourage kids to collect colorful leaves, acorns, or pinecones along the way. It’s free, simple, and gives everyone a chance to connect with nature.

Visit a Farmers Market

Farmers markets are lively in the fall with seasonal produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Take the family on a weekend morning and let everyone pick out something they’d like to try. Apples, pumpkins, and squash are usually in season, and many markets offer fresh cider. Supporting local farmers while spending time together makes this a win-win.

Try a Backyard Campout

Camping doesn’t have to involve packing the car and driving for hours. Pitch a tent in your backyard for a fun night under the stars. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy being “away from home” while still close to bathrooms and snacks. Kids love the adventure, and parents appreciate the convenience.

Have a Family Game Night

With evenings getting darker sooner, fall is a great time to bring out the board games or card decks. Pick a night when everyone is home, set out snacks, and let each family member choose a game. It’s affordable and creates plenty of laughs without the need for screens.

Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin patches are classic fall fun, but they don’t have to be expensive. Many offer free entry, and you only pay for what you pick. Let kids find their perfect pumpkin, then bring them home for carving or painting. Add some hot chocolate afterward and you’ve got a cozy fall memory.

Cook a Seasonal Meal Together

Early fall ingredients like apples, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash make for comforting meals. Choose a simple recipe that everyone can help with—like homemade apple crisp or roasted vegetables. Cooking together gives kids hands-on experience and helps them appreciate the effort behind a family meal.

Plan a Movie Marathon

Cooler evenings call for cozy blankets and good movies. Pick a theme—classic family favorites, fall-themed films, or even a series. Add popcorn and maybe some apple cider for the perfect night in. It’s low-cost entertainment that feels special when planned as a family event.

Explore a Local Festival or Fair

Many towns host small fall festivals or community fairs during September and October. These often include food trucks, live music, or simple games for kids. It’s a great way to support your community and get out of the house for a few hours without spending much money.

Take Family Photos Outdoors

You don’t need a professional photographer to capture memories. Use a smartphone and take advantage of the soft fall light. A park, backyard, or even your front porch can work as a backdrop. Early fall photos are a fun tradition and make for keepsakes you’ll treasure later.

Go Apple Picking

If you have an orchard nearby, apple picking is a must-do. Kids love running through the rows of trees and filling baskets. Once you’re home, bake a pie or make applesauce together. It’s an activity that extends into another family project in the kitchen.

End With a Gratitude List

Fall naturally brings a sense of reflection. Take one evening to sit down as a family and write a gratitude list. Each person can share one or two things they’re thankful for. It’s simple, meaningful, and a nice way to prepare for the holiday season ahead.

Making Early Fall Memorable

A family bucket list doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Early fall offers plenty of simple pleasures—from cooler walks outdoors to cozy nights inside. These activities are realistic, budget-friendly, and designed to bring families closer together. When you keep things simple, you’re more likely to actually do them—and that’s what makes the memories last.

How Lightning Strikes Happen (and Why It’s Rare Twice)

Posted on August 22, 2025August 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

The Science Behind Lightning

Lightning forms when static electricity builds up inside storm clouds. As warm air rises and cold air sinks, ice particles collide and create electrical charges. The positive and negative charges separate until the tension becomes too much. That’s when a bolt of lightning flashes, searching for the quickest path to the ground.

When lightning strikes, it can release up to a billion volts of electricity. The heat from a strike can reach 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit—five times hotter than the surface of the sun. That power explains why strikes can start fires, destroy trees, and cause serious injuries in humans.

Why Lightning Rarely Strikes Twice

You’ve probably heard the saying, “lightning never strikes twice.” While not completely true, it’s uncommon for lightning to hit the same person or place again. Tall objects like skyscrapers and towers are exceptions because they attract electricity. For everyday people, though, getting struck once is already rare. The odds of being struck in any given year in the U.S. are less than one in a million.

The Day My Ex-Husband Was Struck

I know lightning strikes are rare because I witnessed one firsthand. My ex-husband was struck right in front of me. We were leaving my grandmother’s house one stormy afternoon when the rain began pouring too hard to leave. We waited in the garage for it to let up.

He was holding our baby boy, tucked inside his shirt to keep him dry. We had been bickering, like always, because he was a narcissistic liar and I had caught him in another one. I remember him saying, “I swear to God,” and I snapped back, “Don’t you dare swear when you’re lying!” His response was, “F— God.”

At that exact moment, the loudest boom and brightest flash lit up the garage. He screamed—he had been struck by lightning. The blast blew a hole through his shirt, threw his heart out of rhythm, and left a burn across his chest. Miraculously, our baby was unharmed, though in shock.

The firemen later said the bolt likely hit the garage door first and bounced into him. My grandmother, deeply religious, didn’t even want him in her house afterward because she believed it was punishment. Believe what you want, but you’ll never convince me it wasn’t God. Of all people, only that man could be struck by lightning and walk away almost unscathed. Pure evil—but that’s a story for another day.

What Happens to the Body During a Strike

Lightning travels over the body’s surface in a flash, often leaving burns, ripped clothing, or scorched shoes. The electrical surge can throw off the heart’s rhythm, damage nerves, or cause memory problems. Some victims develop long-term issues, while others survive with few lasting effects. Survival often depends on how the strike hits and how quickly medical help arrives.

How to Stay Safe During a Storm

Even though lightning is rare, it’s worth knowing how to protect yourself:

Stay indoors during storms whenever possible.
Avoid standing near tall objects like trees, poles, or fences.
Don’t touch metal or water when lightning is nearby.
Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before going back outside.

Lightning strikes are powerful reminders of how fragile we are. Some believe they’re random, while others, like me, see them as anything but coincidence. Either way, one thing’s for sure—when lightning speaks, it demands respect.

The Surprising Link Between Moon Phases and Mood

Posted on August 19, 2025August 24, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Many cultures have long believed the moon affects our emotions. While it might sound mystical, science suggests there could be truth behind it. The phases of the moon may subtly influence sleep, energy, and even mood swings.

How the Moon Impacts Sleep

Research shows that sleep patterns can shift depending on the moon phase. During a full moon, people often report taking longer to fall asleep and getting less deep rest. Lack of quality sleep directly affects mood, leaving us irritable, anxious, or low on energy the following day.

Emotional Shifts and Energy Levels

The moon’s light and gravitational pull may play a role in how we feel. Some studies suggest people feel more restless or energized during a full moon, while the new moon often brings lower energy and introspection. Many people describe feeling more emotional, sensitive, or creative around these times.

Historical Beliefs About the Moon and Mood

Ancient societies tracked the moon closely and often connected it to human behavior. The word “lunatic” itself comes from the Latin “luna,” meaning moon, reflecting the belief that full moons triggered mood changes. While modern science doesn’t fully support all old ideas, it’s fascinating how consistent these cultural observations were across the world.

The Science Behind the Connection

Though researchers are still studying the link, a few factors stand out. The moon’s brightness can disrupt circadian rhythms, especially before artificial lighting existed. Gravitational pull, similar to how the moon controls tides, may also influence human biology in small ways. While more studies are needed, many agree the moon can indirectly impact mood through sleep and energy.

How to Work With the Moon’s Cycle

Paying attention to your own moods throughout the lunar phases can be helpful. If you know a full moon leaves you restless, plan for extra relaxation or calming rituals. During a new moon, when energy feels lower, focus on rest and reflection. Recognizing these natural rhythms may make mood swings easier to manage.

Final Thoughts

The moon’s phases might not control us, but they can influence how we feel and function. By noticing these patterns, you can better prepare for shifts in mood and energy.

Why Laughing Until You Cry Is Good Medicine

Posted on August 18, 2025August 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

The Power of Genuine Laughter

Everyone has laughed so hard that tears rolled down their face at least once. That kind of laughter is more than just a funny moment—it’s a natural medicine for the body and mind. Researchers have found that deep, uncontrollable laughter releases a flood of feel-good chemicals that improve mood, reduce stress, and even ease physical pain. Unlike a polite chuckle, a full belly laugh engages the lungs, diaphragm, and heart, creating a workout that boosts energy and circulation.

Stress Relief That Actually Works

Life can feel overwhelming, but laughter cuts through tension in an instant. When you laugh until you cry, stress hormones like cortisol drop, while endorphins rise. This natural shift makes you feel lighter and more at ease. Instead of holding onto frustration, laughter acts like a reset button for your nervous system. That’s why watching a comedy or swapping funny stories with friends often leaves you calmer, even when nothing about your situation has changed.

A Natural Painkiller

Believe it or not, laughter has been shown to reduce pain. The endorphins released during hard laughter act as the body’s own painkillers. In fact, studies suggest that people can tolerate discomfort better after a good laugh. The physical release that comes from laughing until you cry loosens tight muscles, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation throughout the body. It may not replace medicine, but it can certainly make tough moments easier to handle.

Strengthening Social Bonds

One of the most powerful benefits of laughter is its ability to connect people. When you share uncontrollable laughter with someone, the bond strengthens instantly. Tears of joy break down barriers, creating intimacy and trust. Friendships built on humor often last longer because laughter helps navigate conflict and stress. In families, laughter creates cherished memories, turning ordinary days into stories retold for years.

Boosting Mental Health

Laughter until tears isn’t just fun—it’s therapy. Mental health experts recognize humor as an effective tool for managing anxiety and depression. Laughing hard brings a sense of perspective, reminding you not to take everything so seriously. It interrupts cycles of negative thinking and replaces them with moments of joy. Over time, building laughter into your daily life can improve resilience and emotional balance.

Physical Health Benefits You Might Not Expect

The effects of laughter reach far beyond mood. Regular, hearty laughter can strengthen your immune system, making it easier to fight off illness. The deep breathing involved improves oxygen flow, which benefits the heart and brain. Some studies even suggest that frequent laughter may protect against heart disease by improving blood vessel function. While it shouldn’t replace a healthy lifestyle, laughing until you cry adds an extra layer of protection to overall well-being.

Ways to Laugh More Often

Finding more laughter in your day doesn’t have to be complicated. Watch a comedy special, read a funny book, or follow humor accounts that genuinely make you laugh. Spend time with people who have a natural sense of humor. Play silly games with your kids or grandkids. The more opportunities you create for laughter, the more likely those tear-inducing giggles will come. And when they do, let them flow freely—your body and mind will thank you.

Final Thoughts

Laughing until you cry is more than a fleeting moment of fun. It’s a medicine that lowers stress, reduces pain, strengthens relationships, and boosts both mental and physical health. The best part? It’s free, easy to access, and enjoyable. So the next time something makes you laugh so hard you can’t stop, don’t hold back. Those tears of laughter are proof that your body is healing in the most joyful way possible.

A Relaxing Weekend and My Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Posted on August 17, 2025August 18, 2025 by gigis ramblings

This weekend came and went in a blur, but it was exactly what we needed. We were up early both mornings, but instead of getting right to it, we stayed in bed until almost 11. That’s not something we usually do, and it made the weekend feel different in a good way.

Friday night we stayed up late making melts and incense with music going in the background. Nothing mind-blowing, just us hanging out and enjoying the time. Saturday was a lazy one—we got up, showered, and moved to the couch. Sometimes that’s all you need.

Today, I was in the kitchen. Santiago asked for homemade lasagna and banana pudding, so that’s what he got. I don’t make lasagna often because it takes some work, but when I do, it doesn’t last long. And no, I didn’t make the pudding from scratch—I’d already put in enough time on dinner.

I thought I would include the recipe for anybody interested. I should also mention: I use ground beef instead of sausage in my lasagna. I don’t eat pork, and the beef works just as well.

Homemade Beef Lasagna

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
12 lasagna noodles
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add garlic, then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Boil noodles according to package directions. Drain.
Mix ricotta, egg, and Parmesan in a bowl.
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9×13 dish. Add noodles, half the ricotta mix, a cup of mozzarella, then sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20 more until the top is bubbly and golden.
Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

The lasagna was the highlight of this slow weekend, and honestly, it’s one of those meals that’s even better the next day. It’s a bit of work, but worth it if you’re feeding a crowd—or just want leftovers that actually taste good.

Why You Should Travel Off-Season

Posted on August 15, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Micha W. from Pixabay

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been an off-season traveler. We’ve always planned our big trips the week after Labor Day, never during spring break or the height of summer. Even our short little getaways usually happen in the fall. Before Santiago went back to a traditional job, our travel window was always September through March. On top of that, we would travel during the week instead of weekends.

I’ll be honest—I hate that we can’t just pack up and go as freely anymore, but that’s a story for another day. What hasn’t changed, though, is how much smarter and smoother it is to travel off-season.

Better Prices

One of the biggest perks of off-season travel is the money you save. Hotels, flights, and attractions almost always drop their rates once the busy season winds down. Back in the ’90s, I started traveling to South Padre Island with my kids right before school started. By that time, families were settling into their routines, college students were preparing for the semester, and it was too early for the winter Texans to show up. The island was practically empty, and hotel rates would fall dramatically. What cost hundreds during peak summer could be booked for a fraction of the price.

Fewer Crowds

Here’s the truth—I’m not a big fan of places that are too “people-y.” Traveling with six kids only made that harder. I didn’t want to drag them through wall-to-wall crowds or have them seeing things little ones didn’t need to see. So while others packed their vacations into spring break or summer, we’d go when the crowds were gone. Empty beaches, shorter lines, and plenty of space to breathe—it just makes the whole trip more enjoyable.

A More Relaxed Experience

Traveling off-season isn’t just about saving money and avoiding crowds. It’s about the overall vibe. When you go in the off-season, destinations slow down. Locals aren’t rushed off their feet with tourists, and you often get a more genuine experience. Restaurants don’t have two-hour waits, tours feel more personal, and you can really settle in instead of feeling like you’re just part of a herd being shuffled through.

More Flexibility

Another reason we loved traveling in the off-season was the flexibility it gave us. Instead of booking everything months in advance, we could grab deals last minute or switch up plans without stressing about sold-out hotels or attractions. Traveling mid-week gave us even more options since most people were tied to weekend schedules.

Why It Still Works Today

Even though our schedule isn’t as flexible now, the lessons stuck. I still plan trips with the off-season in mind because it’s just a better experience all around. While everyone else is flooding social media with their summer vacation pictures, I’m working hard and saving up, knowing my time is right around the corner.

If you’ve never tried it, I can’t recommend off-season travel enough. Better prices, fewer people, and a calmer pace—it makes every trip feel more like a true escape.