Booking a holiday can feel like a puzzle—should you book months in advance for peace of mind, or wait for a last-minute deal? The truth is, the best time to book your holiday depends on your destination, travel style, and budget goals. Airlines, hotels, and tour operators all have pricing strategies designed to maximize revenue, but if you know how to time your bookings, you can save hundreds on flights, accommodations, and packages.

In this guide, we’ll dive into expert tips and data-backed insights to help you choose the right time to book your next getaway—whether it’s a city break, family vacation, luxury resort stay, or all-inclusive escape.

The Best Time to Book Flights

Flights are often the most expensive part of a holiday, so getting this right is key:

1. Book Domestic Flights 1–3 Months in Advance

For travel within your country, booking too early doesn’t always mean savings. The sweet spot for domestic flights is typically 6–12 weeks before departure. Airlines often release promotional fares during this period to fill seats.

2. Book International Flights 3–6 Months in Advance

For long-haul trips, book 3–6 months ahead for the best deals. Airlines release seats about 11 months in advance, but the cheapest fares usually appear closer to the travel date when demand is clearer.

3. Midweek Flights Save Money

Flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays is often cheaper than weekends. Booking midweek also tends to yield lower ticket prices.

4. Use Fare Alerts and Flexible Dates

Platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Hopper let you set price alerts and see price trends, so you can book at the lowest possible rate.
Pro Tip: If your schedule is flexible, use the “cheapest month” feature on flight search engines to find the lowest fares.

When to Book Hotels for the Best Rates

Hotels use dynamic pricing, meaning rates fluctuate based on demand, seasonality, and even local events. Here’s how to time it right:

1. City Breaks: Book 1–3 weeks before your stay for the best price. Hotels often drop rates to fill empty rooms, especially for weekend getaways.
   

2. Resorts & Holiday Destinations: Book 3–6 months in advance to secure the best rates and rooms, especially during school holidays.
   

3. Luxury Hotels: Apps like HotelTonight and websites like Secret Escapes often release last-minute luxury deals at deep discounts.
   

4. Loyalty Programs: Join free programs like Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, or IHG Rewards for exclusive discounts and upgrades.

All-Inclusive Packages and Cruises

For all-inclusive resorts, package holidays, and cruises, early booking is usually best:

• Tour operators release packages up to 12 months in advance with perks like free upgrades or transfers.
  

• Cruise lines often offer “early bird” deals 9–12 months out.
  

• Last-minute cruise sales (30–60 days before departure) can also yield huge savings if you’re flexible.

Use Technology to Save

Booking smartly is easier than ever with travel tools:

• Skyscanner & Google Flights: Track fares and compare airlines.
  

• Hopper: Predicts the best time to book.
  

• Kayak Price Alerts: Sends notifications for airfare drops.
  

• Booking.com & Hotels.com: Great for last-minute or early-bird deals.
  

• Vacation Package Sites: Use LastMinute.com, TravelSupermarket, and Expedia to bundle flights + hotels.

Early Booking vs. Last-Minute Deals

Should you book early or wait for a last-minute bargain? Here’s how to decide:

Booking Early is Best For:

• Families needing guaranteed availability during school holidays.
  

• Luxury travelers wanting premium rooms or resorts.
  

• Securing perks like free upgrades, transfers, and excursions.
  

Last-Minute Deals are Best For:

• Flexible travelers open to spontaneous trips.
  

• Short city breaks, where hotels drop prices to fill rooms.
  

• Cruise lovers looking for discounted unsold cabins.

Insider Travel Hacks to Save More

• Check flights from alternative airports for lower fares.
  

• Fly midweek (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) for cheaper flights.
  

• Use a VPN to see if fares are cheaper based on location.
  

• Sign up for loyalty programs to earn points and perks.
  

• Set fare alerts to book at the right time.
  

• Travel in shoulder seasons for lower costs and fewer crowds.

Example Holiday Planning Timeline

Planning a 7-day summer holiday in Greece:

• 9 months out: Browse package deals and set flight alerts.
  

• 6 months out: Book accommodation for peak season availability.
  

• 3 months out: Reserve excursions and airport transfers.
  

• 1 month out: Search for upgrades or last-minute offers.
  

This approach ensures savings while avoiding stress.

Final Thoughts

The best time to book your holiday is a balance between early planning and strategic spontaneity. Families and peak-season travelers should book early for security and perks, while flexible travelers can save big with last-minute deals.

By leveraging price alerts, loyalty programs, and travel apps, you’ll get unbeatable prices on flights, hotels, and all-inclusive packages. In 2025, timing your bookings right will make your holiday both affordable and unforgettable.