When To Start Planning For Your Next Trip

One of the hardest challenges as a working parent is figuring out when to go on vacation and how to fit it into everyone’s schedule. Maybe you’re juggling kids in different schools with mismatched calendars or navigating endless sports commitments. Planning a trip often falls to the bottom of your to-do list, and before you know it, you’re booking the same tried-and-true summer beach vacation because it feels like the easiest option.

But deep down, you’re longing for more. Maybe it’s exploring the world with your family or elevating that beach getaway by heading somewhere like Costa Rica. This article is here to help! We’ll cover when to start thinking about your vacation (chances are, you already are!), the best time to book it, and how working with a travel advisor can make the entire process easier and more enjoyable.

Plan 6–9 Months in Advance

Ask any travel advisor, and they’ll tell you the sweet spot for booking is six to nine months out. This is the ideal window for trips that require more coordination or are in high-demand destinations.

Here’s why:

• Best Availability: Popular hotels, unique accommodations, and family-friendly resorts often book up far in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking early ensures you have your pick of rooms and locations.
• Convenient Flights: Securing the best flight times and seats is much easier when you plan ahead, saving you from awkward layovers or skyrocketing prices closer to departure.
• Tours and Experiences: Iconic activities, such as private tours, unique excursions, or dining at sought-after restaurants, can fill up quickly. Planning early ensures you don’t miss out.

What Should You Book 6–9 Months in Advance?

• International Travel: Destinations like Europe, the Maldives, or Africa require early planning, especially for summer travel or holiday periods.
• Bucket List Adventures: Think safari trips, Alaskan cruises, or trips to the Amalfi Coast—these destinations are in high demand.
• Disney Vacations: Planning six to nine months in advance allows you to secure dining reservations, park passes, and accommodations in prime spots.
• Multi-Generational Travel: Coordinating schedules and securing larger accommodations (like villas or family suites) works best with more lead time.

Why Work with a Travel Advisor?

Partnering with a travel advisor takes the stress out of planning, especially when booking far in advance. Here’s how we make the process seamless:

• Insider Access: We have connections to secure exclusive perks, upgrades, and experiences that may not be available to the general public.
• Expert Guidance: From finding the best accommodations to suggesting unique activities, we’ll tailor the trip to your family’s needs and preferences.
• Time-Saving: We handle the research, booking, and coordination so you can focus on your busy life without the overwhelm.
• Support: Should anything go wrong, you have an advocate ready to assist before, during, and after your trip.

What Can You Plan in Under 3 Months?

Not everyone has the luxury of planning months in advance. The good news? Many vacations can still be booked with less than three months to go. The key is where you want to go. Some vacations are perfect for short-notice planning, while others, like the Amalfi Coast in August, require more lead time.

Here are a few destinations and vacation types that work well for last-minute planning:

• Beach Vacations at All-Inclusive Resorts: Destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America often have availability, especially if you’re flexible with travel dates and room types.
• Domestic City Escapes: Cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, or San Francisco offer plenty of accommodations and activities, even on short notice.
• Road Trips or National Park Visits: While the most popular parks may book up months in advance, lesser-known gems like Shenandoah, Great Smoky Mountains, or Joshua Tree are excellent alternatives.
• Cruises: Last-minute cruise deals, especially for the Caribbean, Alaska, or the Mediterranean, can often be found if you’re flexible with cabin selection.
• European City Breaks: Cities like Lisbon, Dublin, or Paris are great for last-minute travelers, particularly in non-peak seasons (late September to early May) when flights and hotels are more available.
• Staycations or Regional Getaways: Consider a luxurious stay at a boutique hotel or resort within driving distance. It’s a quick way to recharge without heavy logistics.
• Winter Ski Trips: Ski resorts in the U.S. or Canada often have availability mid-season. Smaller or lesser-known ski towns may offer last-minute lodging options.

Pro Tip: Work with a Travel Advisor for Last-Minute Travel

When you’re booking with a tight timeline, a travel advisor can make all the difference. We have insider connections to secure last-minute accommodations, tours, and even exclusive perks. Instead of scrambling to pull everything together, let a professional handle the details so you can focus on packing and getting excited for your trip!