How far ahead should you book a group trip?

Start planning about three months before you want to travel. For a short trip in Europe, flights are usually good value six to twelve weeks ahead, but accommodation for a big group often goes first, so book the stay as soon as the place is chosen.

Practical steps

1. Start the conversation early. The slow part is the group agreeing, not the booking. Three months gives time to settle dates, budget and place without rushing.
2. Book accommodation first. Houses and flats that sleep six or more are scarce, especially in summer and on bank holidays. Once the place is chosen, book the stay quickly.
3. Watch flights from each airport. Friends flying from different airports see different prices. Check each route rather than assuming one fare fits everyone.
4. Avoid booking too late. Fares on popular routes tend to rise in the last few weeks. Waiting for a last minute deal rarely works for a group, because you need several seats on the same flight.
5. Allow more time for peak dates. School holidays, summer weekends and big events push prices up early. For those dates, start four to six months out.
6. Check leave before paying. Make sure everyone can get the time off work before anyone pays for anything that cannot be refunded.
7. Book everyone in a short window. Agree a day when everyone books their flights. Prices can change within days, and a group that books together pays similar prices.

Where annamo helps

annamo helps with the slow part. Everyone answers a few quick questions, annamo ranks the dates and shortlists places with estimated flight prices from each person's airport, and the group decides quickly. Before anyone books, the organiser checks real fares from every departure airport, so the group books with up to date prices rather than numbers from weeks ago.

FAQ

Is it cheaper to book flights months ahead?

Not always. Very early fares are not always the lowest, but fares on popular routes usually rise in the last few weeks.

When should we book a hen or stag weekend?

Three to four months out. Large groups need more time for leave, rooms and activities.

Should we book flights or accommodation first?

For big groups, accommodation, because suitable places run out first.

Do we need travel insurance?

It is worth it for anything you cannot refund. Each person should buy their own as soon as they book.

Can we book separately?

Yes, but agree a booking day so everyone pays similar prices.