The Best Time To Book Your Holiday Revealed!
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Hotel expert Mark Johnson gives advice for booking your 2024 holiday for the best price.
Thinking ahead to your 2024 holiday? Mark Johnson, from hotel booking website H18YC, reveals the best time to get it booked to save money and guarantee the most availability.
The right time for booking a holiday depends on several factors, including destination, budget, flexibility, and the type of experience you’re looking for. However, here are the guidelines to consider:
Early Booking (8-12 Months in Advance)
If you have specific destinations, accommodations, or experiences in mind, booking early can ensure availability. This is especially true for popular destinations or exclusive resorts. Early bookings can also secure early-bird discounts.
That means that people are at the end of the window for taking advantage of early booking. Mark adds, “While some people hesitate to book early due to concerns about changing plans, it’s important to remember that many booking sites and hotels offer free cancellation policies. This means you can take advantage of early-bird savings without worrying about being locked into your plans. It’s the best of both worlds – securing great deals while retaining the flexibility to adapt if needed.”

Monitoring Deals (3-6 Months in Advance)
If you’re more flexible with your plans, monitoring for deals 3-6 months in advance can be beneficial. That is the sweet-spot for getting the most for your money because airlines and hotels often release promotional deals during this time.
Mark Johnson highlights the advantages of this timeframe, stating, “For those who can afford a bit of flexibility, the 3-6 month window before your trip is often the golden period for booking. Airlines and hotels are keen to fill their remaining capacity during this time, leading to a surge in promotional deals. It’s an opportune moment to snag high-value offers without compromising on quality or preference. This approach strikes a perfect balance between early planning and last-minute spontaneity.”
Last-Minute Deals
While riskier, last-minute deals can sometimes offer significant savings. This approach is better suited for travellers with flexible schedules and destinations. Availability can be limited and so you might end up with less-desirable hotels.
Mark emphasises,”Relying solely on last-minute deals can be risky. While there’s potential for savings, the best hotels often fill up quickly. This could leave you with limited choices, potentially in less ideal locations. In high-demand situations, you might even find yourself paying more just to secure accommodation. It’s a gamble that might not always work in your favour.”
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