Travel planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you know what to book and when to do it. By organizing your timeline and tackling reservations in the right order, you’ll save money, avoid stress, and increase your chances of landing the best deals. This smart traveler’s checklist walks you through exactly when to secure each major piece of your trip, plus pro tips to streamline the process.

3–6 months before departure: Flights and accommodations

Airfare prices generally start climbing as you get closer to your travel date. For international trips, book flights at least 3–6 months in advance to secure the best fares. Use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to monitor price trends and set alerts.

This is also the best window to book hotels, especially if you’re traveling during peak season or visiting a high-demand destination. For extra savings, you can get rewards with a Hotels.com gift card when booking your stay through Fluz.

2–3 months out: Tours, transportation, and major attractions

Once your flights and lodging are set, turn your attention to guided tours, train passes, and must-see attractions. If you’re traveling in Europe, regional rail passes like Eurail can be cheaper when booked early.

Many popular attractions—such as the Eiffel Tower, Vatican Museums, or Sagrada Família—sell out weeks in advance. Book online to lock in your spot and avoid long queues.

1 month before: Dining and activity reservations

Fine dining restaurants, especially Michelin-rated ones, often require advance bookings. Use platforms like OpenTable or TheFork to reserve top tables.

Also reserve activities with limited capacity—such as spa treatments, cooking classes, or outdoor adventures like kayaking or ziplining. If your plans involve bundled bookings, make sure to check for discounts or cashback options before purchasing.

2 weeks before: Insurance, documents, and currency

Purchase travel insurance if you haven’t already. Compare plans using Squaremouth or World Nomads. Confirm that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date, and check visa requirements via the U.S. State Department or equivalent source.

For international travel, notify your bank of your plans and order foreign currency in advance if needed.

1 week before: Transportation and final details

Arrange airport transfers, public transport passes, or rideshare pickup. Download apps like Rome2Rio or Citymapper for route planning in unfamiliar cities. Reconfirm all reservations, check weather forecasts, and finalize your packing list.

Now’s also a good time to buy any last-minute items—just don’t forget to use cashback tools. Whether you’re booking travel gear, transportation, or lodging, platforms like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fluz can help you earn on purchases you were already planning to make.

Final thoughts

Efficient travel planning isn’t just about being organized—it’s about being strategic. Knowing when to book what can lead to lower prices, better availability, and a smoother overall experience. Use this checklist as your roadmap for a well-timed, well-prepared adventure.