Are You a Book-It-Now Traveller or a Last-Minute Scrambler?
There are two kinds of people when it comes to holidays.
The “Book It the Second We’re Home” crew: They land back on UK soil, the washing machine’s barely on its first spin, and they’re already browsing flights for next summer. They’ve got tabs open. A shortlist brewing. They're ready.
And then there’s the “Let’s Just See” gang: These are the ones who keep meaning to look, but life keeps getting in the way. One minute it’s January, the next it’s June, and they’re staring at sky-high prices and wondering why there’s nothing left but bunk beds and 10pm flight arrivals.
Let’s be clear – both approaches are valid. But the way the travel industry works these days? The early birds are getting more than just the worm.
Here's what booking early gives you: Better flight times
More choice on hotels and room types (especially if you need a family set-up)
Lower deposits and longer to pay
Less stress, because it’s done
And perhaps most importantly: you get something to look forward to. Because let’s be honest, having a trip on the calendar makes even the longest work week that little bit more bearable.
The flip side of the last-minute game: Limited availability – especially in school holidays
Higher prices
Rushed decisions (which often lead to disappointment)
That low-key panic of “why did we leave it this late again?”
Look, I get it. Life is full on. I’m a working mum too. But I also know how good it feels to have something locked in early – especially when you didn’t have to be the one trawling the internet for hours to find it.
So… which one are you? Do you like to get ahead and have something in the diary? Or do you tend to fly by the seat of your pants and panic later?
Either way – I’m here.
If you’re ready to start thinking about 2026 (yes, already), now is the perfect time to get ahead of the rush. And if you’re more of a “leave it until the prices go up” kind of traveller… let’s break that habit this year. Your future self will thank you.
Need help planning your next escape – without the stress? Get in touch: vicki.thompson@travelcounsellors.com Instagram: @vickit_travelcounsellor Facebook: Vicki Thompson Travel Counsellor
