So you want to go to Hawaii? We don’t blame you! Next you may wonder, “How far in advance should I book my trip to Hawaii?”. This is an important question, and one a lot of people don’t consider. Keep reading as we explore how far in advance you should book your trip to Hawaii.

First things first, let’s define what we consider “in advance“. If you’re planning a trip to your local beach or state park, one month out is probably plenty. Hawaii, on the other hand, is a different story. Additionally, we specialize in pre-arranged all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages. Therefore, we are looking at the big picture when advance planning. Everything from Hawaii flights to ideal dinner reservation times. We take all of these factors into consideration when we offer recommendations about planning your Hawaii trip.

How far in advance should you book a trip to Hawaii?

We recommend booking six months to one year in advance.

Moreover, we even have clients that book two or more years in advance! One of the perks of booking so early is that it gives you time to comfortably pay off your vacation, before you get to Hawaii. We offer interest-free payment plans, and you get to choose the schedule. As long as you put $225 per person down at time of booking and have it paid in full no later than 69 days before your travel date – the rest is up to you.

Time of Travel

It’s important to remember that certain times of the year are in high demand, and they will sell out. So, when deciding how far in advance to book your Hawaii trip, think about when you will be there.

February

It’s a no-brainer why February sells out. For most people in the northern hemisphere, February is a cold, blah month. For this reason, a lot of folks enjoy taking a trip to warm, sunny Hawaii during this month. Plus, since Valentine’s Day is during February, it’s a popular month for proposals, weddings, honeymoons and anniversary trips. Maui is especially popular in February, and always sells out.

Christmas & New Year’s

In like manner, Christmas and New Year’s sells out at least six months beforehand. These two holidays constitute the busiest travel period for Hawaii all year. This blog post goes into more detail, but long story short: take our advice.

June

This is another month that will sell out. If you’re planning on June through the first week of July Hawaii travel, book at least six months in advance.

Ironman

In October, the Ironman Triathlon is held on the Big Island. Hotels and rental cars sell out during this week, plus airfares increase. This only pertains to the Big Isle, but if you are planning to travel there in October, we suggest booking six to eight months out, or avoiding that week altogether.

How far in advance should you book your trip to Hawaii? Depends on how much you want to save.

No one likes to admit it, but most people are looking for cheap all-inclusive vacation packages, or just cheap vacations period. It’s always a good idea to try to save as much money as possible when planning a Hawaii vacation, so for this reason, book early! As the old adage goes, the early bird gets the worm.

As an illustration, our clients are able to book at current rates for future travel. Sometimes there is a small surcharge added, especially if flights are included, but this is small potatoes to the annual rate increases that occur. Booking in advance locks in current rates and you can travel in the future for less than if you booked last-minute.

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

This point is often overlooked, but hotels and tours do sell out in Hawaii. Occasionally we have seen flights sell out, especially during the holiday season. Time and time again, people express their shock when they want to book last-minute Hawaii, but the hotel is sold out.

Activities and excursions fill up too. For instance, Pearl Harbor is one of the most-visited sites in Hawaii. Space is limited, especially during peak travel seasons. If you wait too late to book, you may not get to visit this infamous historical site. The most-desired times for dinner reservations at the best restaurants get reserved months out.

Get It While the Getting Is Good

To sum all this up, booking your Hawaii trip six months to one year in advance will ensure you get the hotel and activities you want, and at the best price. You can also take your time paying for your trip. Wouldn’t you prefer to go on a vacation that’s been paid in full already, instead of coming home to a credit card balance? This is why we recommend booking early, and booking one of our popular all-inclusive Hawaii vacations. We take care of all the work for you, so you get to sit back, relax and soak up the Hawaiian sun. ☀️

Having said all this, don’t be discouraged if you must book your Hawaii vacation last-minute. Many of our clients book within six months of traveling. Our team of Hawaii specialists will assist you in finding the space you need, and at the lowest possible price. They will work with you as you select your meals and activities, and guide you through any availability challenges. Above all, we want you to have the Hawaiian vacation of your dreams!