Shoulder seasons like autumn are no longer the “quiet months.” Between the summer rush and the winter lull, more and more travellers are choosing spring and autumn for their getaways—drawn by fewer crowds, authentic experiences, and better value. For hoteliers, that shift is a golden opportunity. Here are 7 pricing and revenue management strategies to boost bookings during those shoulder months, plus a special resource you can download below.

1. Craft irresistible seasonal packages Create packages beyond a simple bed and breakfast. By weaving in experiences highlighting the season, such as guided coastal walks, local food and drink tastings, or a warm evening in the spa, you can position your stay as a full escape rather than just accommodation. This helps capture travellers who are looking for something memorable and distinctly Irish.
2. Lean into domestic & nearby markets During these months, domestic and nearby markets play a particularly important role. With fewer long-haul visitors, the focus shifts to travellers locally. To attract these guests, properties can highlight perks such as reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces and appealing long-stay discounts. This resonates strongly with the growing number of remote workers seeking seasonal getaways.
3. Optimise your pricing strategy Demand in shoulder months can fluctuate quickly, so using a revenue management system that automatically adjusts rates based on occupancy, competitor activity, or even the day of the week is important. Tiered pricing strategies work particularly well, offering early-bird discounts, competitive mid-range rates, and last-minute value deals, so every type of guest finds an option that suits them.
4. Offer flexible booking & incentives Flexibility is equally vital. Guests are far more likely to commit if they know their plans can change, so consider offering free cancellations or date changes up to 48 hours before arrival. Pair that with smart incentives such as a welcome drink, late check-out, or a small dining credit, and you’ll give travellers the confidence to book earlier rather than waiting until the very last minute.
5. Tell the seasonal story in your marketing Your marketing should also reflect the charm of the season. Autumn in Ireland is made for storytelling: misty mornings on the coast, colourful foliage, or the warmth of a fireside pint after a day exploring. Use this imagery on your website and social channels, and don’t forget to spotlight seasonal events like food festivals, cultural weeks, or sporting fixtures. Guest-generated content, such as photos and testimonials, can also go a long way in showing the authentic appeal of your property.
6. Optimise costs & operational efficiency Maximising profit involves not just boosting revenue but also managing costs effectively. Shoulder seasons are the ideal time to streamline operations by adjusting staffing levels, heating only occupied rooms, and trialling energy-saving initiatives. These changes not only protect your margins but also appeal to sustainability-minded travellers.
7. Use the downtime to improve & strategise Finally, use the relative calm of shoulder months to look ahead. Revamp your website to make sure it’s mobile-friendly and designed to drive direct bookings. Audit your distribution channels and pricing to ensure you stay ahead of competitors. You can also invest in your team through upselling training or refining service workflow, so you’re fully prepared when the next peak season arrives.

Bonus: apply five tips from our book “49 Tips To Supercharge Your Revenue”

If you want to go even further, you can download our free guide, “49 Tips to Supercharge Your Revenue.” Applying just a handful of these ideas during the shoulder season can make a measurable difference to your results.




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Leane Mckinley, Business Development Manager Ireland
  leane@roompricegenie.com
  0044 771 533 5395