Work schedules and kids’ school calendars sometimes mean you have to vacation during peak travel seasons. Vacationing in the less expensive off-season isn’t always an option. How can you find an affordable Gatlinburg cabin rental during the busiest time of year? These tips show the way.

1. Reserve your cabin as far in advance as possible

As soon as you know potential dates for your Gatlinburg getaway, hit our Colonial Properties website and reserve your cabin:

• June through August is the most popular time to visit Gatlinburg, and it’s advisable to book six to 12 months in advance. 
• From October through mid-November, foliage and festivals bump tourism up again, so book six to nine months before you travel. 
• From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, cabins are in such high demand that you should book 12 to 18 months in advance.

If you can’t plan that far in advance, don’t worry! You can still enjoy Gatlinburg and the Smokies, if you’re willing to be flexible.

2. Be flexible about dates

If possible, adjust your vacation dates to secure the cabin you want. Check local calendars of events. Unless you’re coming here specifically for certain events, try to avoid visiting during popular celebrations, such as the Fourth of July or the River Raft Regatta.

3. Avoid weekend stays

Weekends during peak seasons have less choice of cabins and higher prices per night. Plan a trip for Monday through Thursday for more choices and lower rates. 

4. Be flexible about how many bedrooms you need

If you think you need a particular number of bedrooms, dig deeper into cabin listings. An example: Some one-bedroom cabins comfortably accommodate four, six, or more guests, thanks to sofa beds, lofts with bonus beds (which aren’t listed as “bedrooms”) and other sleeping spaces. If you’re focused only on the number of bedrooms, you might be missing out on less expensive cabins. 

5. Share the costs

Bring friends or extended family to share expenses. Gatlinburg is an attraction-packed destination for a family reunion, friends’ getaway, or wedding party trip, at any time of year.

6. Take advantage of discounts

When you book your cabin directly through the Colonial Properties website, you’ll save 10 percent. Colonial also offers a 10 percent discount for military members, first responders, teachers, and seniors. AAA members score a 10 percent discount too. 

You can visit Gatlinburg affordably even in the most crowded seasons! Browse our cabin listings now.