Impact of Vacation Timing: Exploring Benefits of Early and Late Begins
Summer holidays in Germany are a much-anticipated break for students, and the timing varies across the country. Different German states typically start their six-week summer breaks at varying times between late June and early August, with each state making its own decisions based on tradition, a rotating holiday schedule, and autonomous decisions by the federal states [1][3].
The main travel season in most holiday regions in Europe traditionally falls between June and September, with prices usually highest during this period. However, late vacationers can potentially benefit from lower travel costs and less traffic congestion, especially from late August [4]. Looking at an airport other than the nearest one can also be helpful in finding cheaper travel options [2].
Early starters of the summer break often enjoy their holidays in the summer heat. July is typically the warmest month of the year, with longer daylight hours driving temperatures up [5]. However, as the summer progresses, long, sunny days and mild nights become fewer [6]. In August, southern holiday regions, such as in southern Germany or southern Europe, are still quite sunny [7]. Late vacationers can potentially receive less UV radiation compared to early vacationers [8].
Late vacationers can also look forward to autumnal and mild weather at the start of school, as opposed to early starters who may still experience summery temperatures. Anticipation for late vacationers can last longer due to a slower shift to the school routine [9].
Several factors influence these start dates. Rotating schedules help avoid simultaneous breaks that cause travel congestion and high accommodation demand [1]. Regional traditions, such as the Catholic Pentecost holidays in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, also play a role [1]. The federal state autonomy means that education and school holiday scheduling is handled by the individual federal states rather than the national government [3]. Historic agreements, based on a 1964 agreement that fixes the total number of holiday days and sets the timeframe for the summer break depending on the dates of Easter and Pentecost, also impact the holiday calendar [1].
While on holiday, it's important to be aware of potential unwanted guests. The likelihood of wasps as unwanted guests during outdoor dining is lower in July [10]. On the other hand, the Bavarian Environment Agency warns that as the summer progresses, the living conditions for blue-green algae could improve [11]. It's essential to be aware of potential algae blooms and avoid swimming in affected waters.
The Association of the German Textile and Fashion Industry predicts bargains for summer and swimwear towards the end of July and beginning of August [12]. Many hotel rooms and holiday apartments are cheaper in September [3], making it an ideal time for those looking to save on accommodation costs.
In summary, the six-week summer school break in Germany varies by state and year, influenced by tradition, a rotating holiday schedule, and autonomous decisions by each federal state coordinated through a national conference [1][3]. By considering these factors, vacationers can plan their trips to make the most of their summer holidays in Germany.
- For those planning their summer holidays in Germany, late August might offer the advantage of lower travel costs and less traffic due to the main travel season ending.
- Late vacationers might encounter mild autumnal weather at the start of schools, providing a longer anticipation period compared to early starters still experiencing summery temperatures.
