When Is The Best Time To Book A Summer Holiday?

For most of us, the thought of summer means one thing: escaping the daily grind for sun, sea and a cocktail or two. But before you can relax, there’s one question that can make or break your plans: when is the best time to actually book your summer holiday?

Booking too early might mean missing out on last-minute deals, while leaving it too late could land you with sky-high prices and limited options. So, timing really is everything.

Generally, the sweet spot is between six and twelve months before your planned trip. This window gives you the best chance to secure lower prices while keeping plenty of options open for flights, accommodation and activities.

Why Does Timing Matter So Much?

Airlines and hotels are experts at adjusting prices based on demand. The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have, but not always at the best price. 

Wait too long and prices climb as seats and rooms fill up. The sweet spot lies somewhere in between, where prices haven’t yet peaked but availability is still decent.

According to data from Skyscanner, flights to popular European destinations are, on average, 20% cheaper when booked six to twelve months in advance. That means if you’re planning to travel in July, booking between the previous July and January gives you the best chance of snagging a bargain. It’s when airlines are starting to firm up their summer schedules and offering competitive fares to fill planes.

Is Booking Summer Holidays Early Always Better?

Not necessarily. Booking early can give you peace of mind, especially if you’re travelling as a family or want a specific hotel, villa or resort. 

But for solo travellers or couples with flexibility, waiting can pay off. Some airlines and package holiday providers release flash sales to fill remaining seats or rooms closer to departure. These flight deals can save you hundreds, though they come with less choice and a bit more risk.

That said, early bookers often win when it comes to school holiday dates. Once mid-July hits, demand skyrockets, and prices follow. If you need to travel during that period, locking something in as soon as possible, ideally before the end of winter, is usually wise.

When Do Airlines Release Their Cheapest Fares For Summer Holidays?

Airlines typically open bookings 10 to 12 months before departure, but the first prices aren’t always the lowest. Carriers use dynamic pricing, adjusting fares based on booking trends. 

The first dip in price tends to appear around six to nine months out, when competition between airlines intensifies. For long haul trips, such as to the Caribbean or Asia, consider booking closer to 12 months in advance, as those flights tend to fill faster and prices are more volatile.

What About Package Holidays?

For package holidays, travel companies often offer “early bird” discounts, free child places, or added perks like room upgrades if you book months in advance. These can be excellent value, especially for families. 

However, it’s also worth signing up for alerts from deal websites and travel clubs like Secret Flight Club so you can jump on limited-time discounts that pop up closer to departure.

When Do Last-Minute Summer Holiday Deals Really Appear?

Last-minute deals are the travel world’s version of roulette. You might hit the jackpot or end up paying more for less. Traditionally, the best last-minute bargains appear two to four weeks before travel, once tour operators realise they need to fill remaining rooms or seats.

However, since the pandemic, demand patterns have shifted and true last-minute steals have become rarer during peak summer months. Still, if you’re flexible with dates and destinations, keeping an eye on price drops can be worth it.

Which Destinations Are Hot This Summer?

Every summer, a few destinations steal the spotlight. The Mediterranean remains a firm favourite, with Greece, Spain, Italy and Portugal topping most travellers’ lists. Each offers a mix of sun-drenched beaches, delicious food and rich culture. 

For those looking to venture a little further, Croatia’s islands, Turkey’s turquoise coast and the South of France continue to shine. Meanwhile, more adventurous travellers are heading to places like Montenegro, Albania and Morocco for a mix of affordability and authentic charm.

If you prefer something cooler, Scandinavia has become increasingly popular for summer escapes. Think long days, stunning fjords and a slower pace of life. Iceland, Norway and Finland are perfect for travellers who crave open space and crisp air rather than heat.

What Is The Smart Way To Find The Best Price?

Flexibility is your best friend. If you can shift your departure date by even a few days, you might save a surprising amount. Flying midweek is often cheaper than at weekends, and early morning or late-night flights usually come with lower fares. 

Use fare comparison tools, set price alerts and track trends before booking. Signing up to travel clubs and deal newsletters can also help you catch hidden discounts before they go public.

Accommodation costs follow a similar pattern. Hotels and rental hosts adjust rates based on demand, so try booking your stay directly or checking smaller, independent websites for offers. Many now offer free cancellation, which gives you room to rebook if prices drop later.

So, When Is The Best Time To Book A Summer Holiday?

If you want a simple rule: aim to book your summer holiday between six and twelve months before you plan to travel. That’s when you’re most likely to find the balance between choice, price and availability. 

For peak school holiday travel, secure your trip even earlier, ideally before the end of winter. For flexible travellers happy to take a gamble, keep watching deals right up until the last few weeks before departure.

In short, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re chasing the Greek sun, exploring Italian vineyards or lounging by a Portuguese pool, booking at the right moment can make your dream summer escape that bit sweeter—and easier on the wallet.

How Can Secret Flight Club Help With Cheap Summer Holidays?

At Secret Flight Club, we take the guesswork out of finding the best time to book. Our team tracks live flight data, flash sales and secret fare drops from hundreds of airlines around the world, alerting you the moment prices hit their lowest point. 

Members regularly save up to 70% on flights and holidays, often bagging business-class upgrades or luxury stays for less than the cost of an economy ticket. Whether you’re planning a family trip to Spain, a romantic week in Santorini or an island-hopping adventure in Croatia, Secret Flight Club makes sure you’re first in line for unbeatable deals—without spending hours trawling the internet.

Sign up today to get cheap flights for the perfect summer holiday!