March is on the calendar, and you are already dreaming of the summer sea, mountains or cozy European streets? It's time to start thinking about booking! Planning your vacation in advance is not just an opportunity to save money, but also a way to avoid many unpleasant surprises.
But it is important not to go too far: booking too early can be risky, and too late can be unreasonably expensive. How to find a balance and not regret your decision?
Early booking: profitable, but not always safe
The basic rule is simple and works in 90% of cases: the earlier you book, the cheaper. In autumn (!), tour operators are already starting to offer summer destinations at the most pleasant prices: this allows them to assess demand and flexibly manage supply. The difference in the cost of a voucher between the start of sales and the peak of the season can reach 2-3 times. If you know exactly where and when you will go, do not delay.
But there is a nuance. Booking tickets or a hotel at non-refundable rates six months or more in advance is a risky venture. Remember the pandemic, closed borders and canceled flights... Sometimes it is better to overpay a little for a return fare, but sleep peacefully.
The best option is to take care of the trip 2-3 months before departure. This is the golden mean: prices have not yet soared, and the likelihood of force majeure is minimal.
Booking time varies by destination
City Travel
If you dream of spending a weekend in Paris or walking along the cozy streets of Prague, take your time, it is better to plan such a vacation on your own: you can buy tickets and book accommodation 2-3 weeks before the trip. The main thing is to check the calendar of city events in advance. If a large-scale conference, holiday or festival takes place during this period, prices will soar, and it will be more difficult to find a hotel room.
Resort holidays: the earlier, the better
If Turkey, Egypt or Greece are on the agenda, the logic is the opposite - here it is more profitable to turn to tour operators: they book hotel rooms and plane seats in advance at a reduced cost. The best time to buy a tour is 3 months before departure: this gives you a chance to catch an adequate price and not worry about a lack of seats.
Europe, Asia and the Middle East
Prices for air tickets to these destinations begin to rise 1-2 months before the trip, hotels also raise the cost as they fill up. So if you want to fly to Barcelona or Bangkok, book 3 months in advance, no later.
Sea Cruises: Think Ahead for the Year
Cruise lovers should start planning 6-12 months in advance: the closer the departure date, the higher the prices and the fewer cabins to choose from (and the last factor is almost more important than the price!).
When is it not worth booking?
There are periods when prices are artificially inflated due to the hype. For example, the end of the year and January are the traditional time for paying annual bonuses: at this moment, demand rises sharply, and with it the cost of vouchers.
It is also worth considering the seasonality of specific cities.
Don't fall for marketing tricks
"Only one ticket left!", "Discount only today!" - sound familiar? Tour operators and hotels often create artificial scarcity to encourage impulse buying.
Take your time! Sometimes, if you take a break, you can find an even better offer.
Most importantly: summer begins now! So if you want to spend it stress-free, start planning.
