12 Reasons to Book Your Holiday Early
Everyone knows that a superb holiday provides the ultimate stress relief, but when it comes to booking a holiday, it can get quite confusing. There's a lot of conflicting advice from the travel industry on the best time to book. While some love the spontaneity of an impulsive getaway, others love to plan. Ultimately, it comes down to your needs.
Booking in advance vs late booking
Early Booking
Booking nine or more months in advance is generally considered booking early. This is better if you want to travel on specific dates or have a destination in mind. We'd also recommend booking early if you’re travelling with someone who has specific needs, like children and the elderly or disabled. Or if you're booking a large group holiday.
You can book a group holiday with Riviera Travel.
Late Booking
Booking one to two weeks before departure is often considered the best time to book for a late booking. Prices tend to rise again during the last couple of days. If you are flexible on dates and don't mind where you go, late booking can be a great way to grab a bargain and see somewhere unexpected. However, be aware this may mean early morning, late night or indirect flights to your chosen location as the more convenient flights tend to sell out. Not booking in advance tends to be better for solo travellers or couples.
We offer a wide range of solo holidays. So, whether you’re the kind of person who prefers travelling alone, or perhaps like your own space with the option of mingling at times, our solo traveller options bring your perfect holiday within reach.
Find Out More About Solo Holidays
While both have advantages, we recommend booking early and here's why...
The benefits of booking early
1. Cheaper Prices
Due to the laws of supply and demand, airlines tend to optimise their rates: the flights are cheaper when the plane is not full, and gradually they increase their prices as the plane fills. Prices never really go down once they're released.
Luckily, this isn't an issue with a Riviera Travel holiday, as we build strong relationships with our suppliers enabling us to negotiate exceptional rates, and we pass those savings straight back to you. Our prices are fair and straightforward, with no hidden extras.
You're also more likely to be offered extras when you book early as an extra incentive. From free drinks to longer stays, there are plenty of reasons to book early.
2. Buy now pay later
If you book your dream holiday early, you know it's secure. However, you don't have to start paying for the holiday until closer to your departure date, allowing you to buy your holiday now and pay for it later.
3. Budgeting
Alternatively, if you choose to pay your holiday off in instalments, the sooner you book, the longer you have to pay it back. That means smaller instalments, which can be useful if you're sticking to a budget.
4. More destinations
The earlier you book, the more destinations are available to you. Popular destinations get booked up fast. If you have a specific place in mind for your next holiday, booking earlier ensures you get the holiday you want.
If you’ve always dreamed of experiencing Japan’s cherry blossom in full bloom or the great migration in Kenya, you'll need to travel at the right time of year. Unsurprisingly, these are the most popular travel dates - booking in advance ensures you’re ahead of the pack!
Where in the world can we take you? Find your next destination:
5. Pre-booking flight seats
Many airlines offer the option to pre-book your seats, but this is done on a first-come-first-serve basis, so early bookers get the window seats!
6. Petcare
The further in advance you book, the longer you have to arrange pet care during your trip. If you are escaping for a getaway, just the two of you, you have longer to find a friend or relative to take care of your pets.
7. Choose the best rooms
Particularly on our river cruises, where accommodation is limited, booking in advance ensures you get the deck and room you want. Cabins or hotel rooms with a desirable location, such as lake or sea-view rooms, and we find these always sell out quickly, so it’s worth being an early bird and booking early to ensure you have everything you’re dreaming of.
8. Choose the best dates
Book early to visit your favourite destinations at the best times of the year. Enjoy the best European river cruises have to offer, with fine weather and bustling towns and cities. Or simply have the freedom to arrange your holiday around your social commitments - the earlier you book, you more likely you'll be able to get your chosen dates.
9. Researching activities
The sooner you book your holiday, the more time you have to research things to do in your chosen destination and book exciting activities to enhance your holiday. Whether you're looking for the most significant historical sites in the area, museums and galleries, or just a chance to try authentic local cuisine, all this and more is just a google away.
10. Less pressure
While you might grab a bargain when you book last minute, it can be a bit stressful. By booking early, you save yourself from the pressure of making a quick decision and the fear of missing out on your perfect holiday. Use that energy planning what you want to see, do and eat while you're there.
11. It can make you happier
According to a study by scientists in the Netherlands in 2010, we experience higher levels of happiness when we're planning or looking forward to a holiday. So, you'll feel happier after booking a holiday - and these benefits last until your trip.
View our wide range of holidays to find your next holiday. From relaxing river cruises to worldwide tours, our curated itineraries offer an authentic experience delving into the local culture and history of your chosen destination.
12. There's time to get excited
While everyone loves to go on holiday, one of our favourite parts is the anticipation of going. There's plenty of time to get excited before you start to think about what you need to buy and pack when you book your holiday early.
View our wide range of holidays to find your next holiday. From relaxing river cruises to worldwide tours, our curated itineraries offer an authentic experience delving into the local culture and history of your chosen destination.
