Summer may feel like a lifetime away as we finish out these last few weeks of winter, but even though June 21 can’t seem to come soon enough, now is the perfect time to get your summer travel plans in order.
Traveling in the summer is popular for people all around the world, and while many destinations on the globe have desirable weather in June, July and August, summertime travel comes with a price. During the summer, the cost to travel to regions like Europe is at its peak, with flights often ballooning to more than $1,000 and hotels raising rates to accommodate the influx of visitors. Even with the higher prices, summer travel is still preferred time to travel for many, so if you know you’ll want to put your passport to work come summertime, here’s why there’s no better time than now to get started with your planning.
The Earlier You Start Planning A Group Trip, The Better
As much as I love a solo adventure, the winter is a great time to get your friends on board for an international summer vacation. If you start planning in February, you and your crew can come up with a game plan for saving money, payment arrangements, requesting time off from work and securing your flights, accommodations and activities, all while getting amped for the trip in the process. Group trips don’t happen overnight for most people, so if you want to roll deep in Milan of ball out in Bali, now is the time to put your plan in action.
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Flights Will Only Get More Expensive
Round-trip flights to Europe are a steal when you purchase tickets in the winter, and while fares to Rome, Paris and Greece won’t be cheap for travel during the summer, snagging your tickets now will save you hundreds (and in some cases, more than $1,000) the sooner you buy them.
There’s Still Time To Get Great Deals On Lodging
When it comes to travel, procrastination will cost you. Buy securing your Airbnb, hostel or hotels now, you’re giving yourself enough time to compare rates and amenities so that you’re getting your money’s worth. Booking too late in the game could mean the difference between scoring a reasonably priced room in a prime location versus paying a premium for lodging leftovers.
Anticipation Is Everything
Last-minute trips can be a fun whirlwind that fills your need for spontaneity and adrenaline, but the growing anticipation that builds while waiting to set off on a trip you’ve spent months planning is a one-of-a-kind feeling. In life, it’s always important to have something to look forward to, and when you’re frolicking in the Maldives or sipping Chianti in Tuscany like the Obamas a few months from now, you’ll be glad you started planning today.