Should you book your excursions in advance?

(Spoiler: Yes, and here's why!)

As you think about your next vacation, maybe you're picturing yourself strolling through charming French villages, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs off the coast of Australia, or marveling at ancient ruins in Mexico. Wherever your imagination takes you, there’s one key element that can transform a good trip into an extraordinary one: booking your excursions before you go.

Should you book your excursions in advance? If you do, will you miss out of the joy of discovering a place as you go along? Will you be too scheduled and rigid to be able to enjoy something that pops up along the way?

As someone who’s been there—and helped countless others experience travel magic—I can confidently say that planning your adventures early is one of the best decisions you’ll make. Here's why, with some of my real-life clients’ experiences:

Stretch your budget further (and have fun doing it)

Booking excursions ahead of time often means securing special early-bird discounts, helping your vacation dollars go further. And especially these days, who DOESN’T want more bang for their buck?

Imagine floating over Cappadocia, Turkey, in a hot-air balloon at sunrise, taking in panoramic views of fairy chimneys and picturesque valleys—all at a friendlier price because you booked early.

Or picture yourself sampling fresh Greek salads and a Gyro sandwich on a sunset cruise along Greece’s Santorini coastline, knowing your early reservation allowed you extra indulgences during your stay.

Experiences tailored just for you

Everyone has different travel dreams, and booking excursions early ensures you get exactly what you're envisioning.

Are you captivated by art? How about a private guided tour through the Louvre in Paris, leisurely admiring masterpieces without the bustle of crowds?

Or maybe cooking is your passion—imagine rolling fresh pasta with a local chef in a cozy kitchen tucked away in Tuscany’s rolling hills.

Adventure seekers might dream of spotting lions and elephants during a carefully curated safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

Securing these experiences early guarantees they're available, especially for those popular, sought-after tours.

Travel with confidence and peace of mind

Let's be real—when you’re far from home, peace of mind is priceless. Booking your excursions ahead of time means you'll be traveling with reputable, vetted providers known for their exceptional service and safety standards.

Think about cruising through Norway’s dramatic fjords, trusting fully in your chosen operator's reputation.

Or visualize yourself wandering through Japan's iconic temples in Kyoto, guided by someone who deeply respects the local culture and traditions.

Even a stroll through Rome’s ancient ruins becomes more enriching when you're guided by trusted, knowledgeable professionals.

Discover authentic, hidden gems

Early booking allows you to skip crowded, cookie-cutter experiences in favor of something genuinely authentic.

Picture yourself paddling quietly through the awe-inspiring beauty of New Zealand’s Milford Sound, your kayak gliding effortlessly through crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering peaks.

Or perhaps you envision navigating Bangkok’s vibrant streets on a personalized food tour, uncovering culinary secrets only locals know.

These thoughtfully curated experiences ensure you’ll connect deeply with your destination.

Pre-planning means more time for joy

Booking in advance isn’t just about securing spots—it’s about freeing up your mental space so you can fully immerse yourself in the excitement and anticipation of travel. Instead of worrying about availability or scrambling to find last-minute alternatives, your itinerary will flow seamlessly, allowing you to relax and truly savor each moment, from start to finish.

Ultimately, booking excursions early enriches your vacation on every level. It grants peace of mind, personalized adventures, savings, and unforgettable moments tailored specifically to you.

But…what about having time for unexpected things you want to explore?

My secret is to book excursions that will help you feel immersed in the destination, along with leaving some additional time to discover and explore on your own. I find that a combination of scheduled excursions plus free time is a perfect mix to see and do the best things in each place.

Whether your next trip takes you halfway around the world or closer to home, investing in a little advance planning ensures your travels are filled with the meaningful, memorable experiences you deserve. From Africa to Anchorage, or Zion National Park to Zurich, a few amazing pre-booked excursions will deepen your relationship with your destination and your people! Because the best adventures require a little planning.