Planning a holiday is one of my greatest joys whether it’s for my clients or myself – the excitement of choosing a destination, planning about the experiences waiting for you, and, of course, having something to look forward to.
It might seem a bit ahead of the game, but yes, I’ve already booked my holidays for 2026. Why, you ask? Because planning ahead means securing the best options, taking the stress out of last-minute decisions, and giving myself – and my loved ones – plenty of time to dream and prepare for our next adventures.
In this article, I’m sharing why forward-thinking travel planning is one of the smartest moves you can make, whether you’re longing for a relaxing seaside escape, a bustling city break, or an immersive cultural journey. With my years of travel expertise, I’ve seen first-hand how thinking ahead can transform a holiday from great to unforgettable.
So, let’s dive in and talk about why giving yourself a head start is one of the best travel tips you’ll ever hear.
For starters, I’ve come to realise that the earlier I book, the more likely I am to secure the places and experiences that are at the top of my list. There’s nothing worse than setting your heart on a charming boutique hotel or a particular date for a festival, only to find it’s fully booked when you finally get around to arranging things. By booking early, I’ve not only avoided disappointment but have also had the time to research the smaller details that truly make a trip special.
We’re going back to South Africa in February 2026, and right at the top of my list is to return to the fabulous hotel we stayed at in Hermanus, the hotel only has seven rooms (all stunning suites) so availability can be tricky during late Summer and early Autumn when the weather is warm, sunny and dry.
This is part of a much bigger three-week self-drive which takes us from Johannesburg to Durban – exploring the Drakensburg Mountains, Battlefields (Roukes Drift) plus a Malaria-free Safari. We’ll then take an internal flight from Durban to Cape Town, splitting our time in Hermanus and Camps Bay, a seaside town with a beautiful, long stretch of white beach bordered by a promenade full of restaurants, clubs, and hotels and a 20-minute Uber to Cape Town.
Another key reason for my early planning is cost. Travel prices can fluctuate, and booking in advance often means you can take advantage of lower rates or early-bird offers, flights tend to get more expensive the closer you are to travel. If you’re looking for a Child Free Place these get snapped up quickly, also the cheapest sea views tend to sell out first, and if you’re looking for a room for a larger family these are always the first to sell out.
It’s an investment in peace of mind too – knowing my plans are locked in allows me to budget better and spread the costs out, rather than facing a big expense all at once. Also, I can lock in the Dog Sitter, and plan our office workflow.
I’ll admit, one challenge I’ve faced in the past is being unsure about what the future might bring – we all like to keep our options open, after all. But securing my trip with a small deposit is a game-changer, with the balance not due until 14 weeks before travel, or 6 weeks if you pay by Direct Debit
Finally, there’s the sheer joy of having something to look forward to. Having my 2026 holidays lined up gives me a sense of excitement and purpose as I plan all the little touches – like where to eat, what local markets to explore, or even what books I’ll read on the plane. It’s these small details that transform a trip from good to unforgettable.
So, if you’ve been thinking about your next adventure, why not start planning now? Take it from me: the earlier you begin, the smoother and more enjoyable the process will be. And remember, whether you need advice on destinations, support with bookings, or just a chat to bounce around ideas, we are here ready to help make your dream holiday a reality.
Here’s to making 2026 one for the books – have a look at our fabulous trip here!