This is how far in advance you should book a holiday to get the best deals

Preparation is key (Picture: Getty Images)

With the UK set to face even more freezing temperatures in the coming days, most of us are already anticipating our summer holidays.

To help us all fulfil our travel fantasies in the next few months, travel operator Ski Vertigo, has identified the best time to book summer getaways for maximum savings in 2024.

Get your calendars out right now, folks!

When is the best time to book European trips?

Booking this far in advance can lead to savings of around 47% (Picture: Getty Images)

The sweet spot for booking is around 141 days (or five months) before departure, typically in February.

Booking this far in advance can lead to savings of around 47% which means you can reserve the cash you would’ve spent for souvenirs and activities.

This timeframe also allows holidaymakers to take advantage of early bird offers and avoid last-minute bookings, which can be costly.

When is the best time to book Eurostar trips?

Don’t hesitate when booking your train tickets (Picture: Getty Images)

If you’re planning on whisking yourself away to Paris, Lille, Amsterdam or Brussels via Eurostar, the specific number of days you should book your tickets before your intended departure date is 120.

This is four months in advance and it should help you secure the best fares. It’s especially beneficial for those looking to explore multiple destinations via rail, offering a budget-friendly and environmentally sustainable mode of travel.

Booking 120 days in advance could also help you get a better seat and choice of travel times. Train travel also offers a scenic, relaxed alternative to air travel.

When is the best time to book long-haul flights?

This is when you should book your plane tickets (Picture: Getty Images)

Here’s a question countless travellers have asked themselves. According to the experts, you should book long-haul flights approximately 178 days (six months) in advance.

Planning this far in advance can give you a 54% reduction in costs. This means for a summer holiday in July, the ideal booking period falls in January. So, you still have a few weeks left to decide on where your next (affordable) adventure should be.

This significant saving opens a world of opportunities, allowing travellers to explore destinations previously considered beyond their budget. It’s not just about the savings; this also ensures better availability and choice of flights.

How else can I save money when booking a holiday?

Here are some tips from Ski Vertigo about all the ways you can save some cash when booking your next adventure.

Flexibility: Adjusting travel dates and times can open up many cost-saving opportunities. Take advantage off-peak times or on less popular travel days.

Price Tracking Tools: These tools provide real-time updates on price fluctuations, alerting travellers to the best times to book flights and accommodations.

Deals and Sales: Keep an eye on the flash sales and exclusive promotions offered by airlines and travel agencies by subscribing to newsletters and following travel brands on social media.

Last-Minute Deals: While early booking is generally recommended, there’s also a place for last-minute deals. These are particularly beneficial during off-peak seasons or for less popular destinations, offering substantial discounts for spontaneous travellers.

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