How Far in Advance to Plan Every Type of Trip & Why 2026 Should Start Now
If you want 2026 to be the year you finally take that dream trip — the safari, the river cruise, the family villa, the once-in-a-lifetime Europe vacation — the planning clock is already ticking. The best rooms, guides, and experiences are often spoken for 12+ months in advance, and by the time most people start thinking about it, they’re already too late.
Here’s your guiding post to how far ahead to plan different types of travel, and why working with a travel advisor now can mean the difference between a “fine” trip and an unforgettable one. When we book in advance, there are opportunities to break up the payments into a schedule, and still lock in your priority choices.
African Safaris: 12–18 Months Out
Best booking window: Now through early 2025 for 2026 travel
Why: Boutique lodges and mobile camps across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and South Africa have limited rooms (sometimes fewer than 10), and prime migration or wildlife seasons sell out quickly. Planning early also ensures you secure top guides and internal flights, which can be limited.
Advisor tip: Booking 12+ months ahead also gives you more flexibility to combine a safari with an add-on like gorilla trekking in Rwanda or a beach escape in Zanzibar or Seychelles and access to special perks like private vehicles or kids’ “Junior Ranger” programs.
Luxury Cruises & River Cruises: 12+ Months Out
Best booking window: 12–24 months before departure
Why: The most desirable cabins (owner’s suites, aft balconies, connecting rooms) and small-ship itineraries are snapped up by repeat guests as soon as they’re released. Booking early also locks in early-bird fares and often includes added perks like air credits or complimentary excursions.
Advisor tip: Expedition and themed cruises (think Antarctica, Galápagos, wine voyages, or Christmas markets) should be secured even earlier — ideally 18–24 months before sailing. Working with an advisor can also unlock exclusive pre- and post-cruise extensions.
Festive & Holiday Travel: 9–12 Months Out
Best booking window: By January–March for the following holiday season
Why: The most sought-after hotels, villas, and private chalets for Christmas, New Year’s, and school holidays often sell out before spring even begins. Flights also climb dramatically the longer you wait, especially for multi-generational or group travel.
Advisor tip: For bucket-list festive experiences like Christmas in Vienna, New Year’s in Cape Town, or a family reunion in the Caribbean — aim for 12+ months out. Many top hotels require multi-night minimums and full-prepayment during peak weeks, which your advisor can negotiate on your behalf.
Europe Summer Travel: 8–12 Months Out
Best booking window: August–December for the following summer
Why: Demand for Europe shows no sign of slowing, and iconic hotels in places like Lake Como, the Amalfi Coast, Provence, and the Greek Islands are often fully booked by winter. Early planning also ensures better flight options, prime villa dates, and private touring availability.
Advisor tip: Book even earlier if you’re traveling in July or August, when locals vacation and demand peaks. Advisors can also help you strategically build multi-stop itineraries — like combining Paris, the Italian Lakes, and the Croatian coast — without wasting travel days.
Villas, Multi-Gen Trips & Special Celebrations: 12–18 Months Out
Best booking window: 12–18 months ahead
Why: Private villas, estates, and large-format suites that can host milestone birthdays, weddings, or reunions are among the first to go, specially those with chef services or beachfront access.
Advisor tip: Planning well ahead gives you time to layer in bespoke touches like private chefs, wine tastings, yacht charters, or behind-the-scenes tours that elevate a trip from special to spectacular.
The Bottom Line: Think Like a Pro Traveler
The biggest misconception travelers have is thinking they can “wait and see.” The truth is:
Flexibility decreases the closer you book.
Prices increase (often by 30%+) inside the 6-month window.
Best-in-class experiences — the Michelin-booked tables, top safari guides, and balcony cabins are long gone.
The earlier you start, the more choice, value, and VIP access you’ll have. And that’s where working with a trusted travel advisor makes all the difference.
Ready to Plan 2026?
From once-in-a-lifetime safaris and epic cruises to multi-stop Europe itineraries and milestone celebrations, I help my clients secure the best experiences before they sell out. Contact me now to start crafting your 2026 travel calendar — the earlier we plan, the more unforgettable your journey will be.
