Already planning on where to go next? We love that!

We always say you need to get in early to avoid missing out. And this rings especially true when staying in the remote and secluded places we take you, where accommodation options can often be limited. 

Combine that with an opportunity to save and a better chance of securing your desired dates, it'll make you want to get organised – fast.

6 reasons why you should book early

1. Get the dates you want

We had to turn many people away last season because trips were at capacity. By booking your walking or cycling holiday now, your trip is more likely to be confirmed around your preferred day.

2. Greater flexibility

Without worrying about availability, booking in advance offers greater flexibility when it comes to choosing the type of accommodation you wish to stay in. So if you wanted to spoil yourself by getting that room upgrade but know there's limited availability, you get first dibs!

3. Lock in a better flight deal

Once your holiday is locked in, you'll be able to find better flight deals at convenient times for you. So the idea of travelling over the peak season won't daunt you with a hefty price tag. 

4. Save with 'Early Bird' prices

As the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm, so getting ahead and booking in advance can save you big! Plus, if there is a price increase for next season, you'll be able to put those savings towards another incredible adventure.

5. Budgeting made easy

Being organised far in advance will make your dream adventure much easier to budget for. By having things like your accommodation, luggage transfers, certain meals and transportation booked ahead, when your trip day finally arrives, you'll have a better idea of how much to save when it comes to the other smaller incidentals. Plus, the more quality inclusions accounted for earlier in your holiday, the fewer things you need to worry about when out on your trip.

6. Give yourself something to look forward to

Did you know looking forward to something can be almost as good as experiencing it? With numerous studies indicating that having something to look forward to can significantly enhance your mood, boost your wellbeing and reduce stress levels, it’s worth putting something on your calendar! In fact, one study found that when we visualise a positive upcoming activity, it can bring instant happiness.

2024 departure dates: where to go?

There is currently a high demand for popular trips such as England's epic Coast to Coast, experiencing Mont Blanc in Comfort, hiking in the famous English Lake District of Cumbria or taking an incredible long-distance trail across Scotland. To avoid disappointment in 2024, be sure to book ahead.

All of our self-guided holidays in the UK and Europe are offered on an individual basis, so most tours will depart daily. You also have the option to add any extra days you wish. You can find a date range above the calendar on each trip page.

For guided trips, places are often on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you have a specific time frame in mind, getting in early will give you a better chance of travelling exactly when you want to. We’ve released some new guided options on more UK trails for next year, like the 17-day Coast to Coast Guided Walk (Richmond Rest).

Give yourself something to countdown to and put something fun on your calendar!

Which destination is on your radar for next year? Let us know in the comments below.

Page last updated 4 November 2023.