When Should You Book a Holiday?

Travel Tips
Written By Janeen Ratcliffe

Knowing when to book a holiday can save you hundreds of pounds. While many travellers assume last-minute deals are always cheaper, the reality is that the best time to book depends on where you’re travelling, when you’re travelling and how flexible you can be.

In this guide, we’ll explain when to book flights and package holidays, how far in advance to plan for peak travel periods, and when waiting for a deal might actually work in your favour.

Book Early for Peak Travel Periods

If you’re travelling during busy periods, booking early is usually the smartest option.

This includes:

Demand is higher, availability is lower and prices often increase as departure dates get closer. Booking early also gives you a better choice of hotels, flight times and departure airports.

Long-Haul Holidays Often Reward Early Planning

For destinations such as Thailand, Bali, Dubai, Mexico, the USA and the Caribbean, booking several months in advance often provides the best balance of price and availability. Flights can become more expensive closer to departure, particularly during popular travel periods.

When Last-Minute Deals Can Save Money

Last-minute holidays can still offer excellent value, but they work best if you’re flexible.

You may find better deals if:

  • You’re open to multiple destinations

  • You can travel at short notice

  • You’re flexible with departure airports

  • You’re not restricted to school holiday dates

Travel companies occasionally reduce prices to fill unsold hotel rooms and airline seats, creating opportunities for bargain hunters.

Does the Day You Book Matter?

Although there is no single “best” day to book a holiday, midweek bookings and departures are often cheaper than weekends due to lower demand. If you have flexibility with your travel dates, you’re more likely to find better deals and save money on your trip.

Compare Prices Before Booking

Before booking, compare prices across multiple providers to make sure you’re getting the best value.

Useful websites include:

A few extra minutes comparing prices can sometimes save hundreds of pounds.

Final Thoughts

For school holidays, summer travel and other peak periods, booking early is usually the safest approach. For flexible travellers, last-minute deals can still offer excellent value.

The key is to compare prices, stay flexible where possible and book when you’re happy with the overall value. A great holiday deal isn’t always the cheapest one — it’s the one that gives you the most for your budget.

Janeen Ratcliffe
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How to Find Last-Minute Holiday Deals