Kids walking through trees

The 10 benefits of booking ahead

The 10 benefits of booking ahead

We might be biased, but booking a UK holiday is always exciting! One common dilemma, however, is whether to book early or hold out for a last minute offer. The countdown to your getaway is part of the thrill, but knowing when to secure your trip can make all the difference.

While the temptation to wait can be strong, there are plenty of advantages to booking in advance. Here are ten reasons why securing your holiday early is the best choice for your next UK getaway.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Often better prices

Booking early often helps you secure better prices. As peak travel times approach and demand increases, prices can vary. By planning ahead, you can lock in lower rates and take advantage of seasonal perks—like our start-of-the-year Price Promise and the ability to spread the cost with a low deposit for holidays more than 8 weeks away. But hurry—once it’s gone, it’s gone!

Choice of locations

Our holiday parks offer easy access to both coast and country, with a wider selection of accommodation when you book early. With holiday parks dotted up and down the country, finding the perfect getaway for you and your family can be a challenge. Whether you’re planning a trip to Cornwall, Norfolk, or the New Forest, our parks fill up fast—especially during school holidays and the summer season. Last-minute availability is limited, so we always recommend booking early to secure your stay.

First pick of accommodation


Lodge holidays, camping sites, and family caravan parks often sell out months in advance. Booking early ensures you get the accommodation you and your family are looking for, whether it’s a luxury lodge, a family friendly holiday home, a glamping experience, or an electric or non-electric camping pitch.

Start planning things to do

When you book your holiday early, you give yourself plenty of time to research activities, days out, book excursions, and plan a memorable itinerary for all the family. From scenic walks to local attractions, knowing what’s available ahead of time can help you make the most of your trip.

Time to make arrangements for pet or child care

If you’re planning a couple’s getaway, early booking allows time to arrange childcare or pet sitting. If you’re bringing a furry friend, it also means you can reserve pet-friendly accommodation before it sells out. When it comes to us and our parks, we welcome all family members so if you’re planning a getaway just for the two of you, early booking gives you time to make necessary arrangements, whether it’s securing a dog sitter or organising childcare. But don’t forget, if you have a dog, you can choose one of our pet-friendly accommodations and bring up to two good boys or girls along with you.

Research where to eat, drink and explore

Dining out is a highlight of any holiday, and securing a reservation at popular restaurants can be tricky. Booking in advance gives you time to explore top-rated local eateries, from cosy dog-friendly pubs to seafood restaurants, and make reservations where needed. From dog friendly pubs to restaurants in the New Forest, we’ve got no end of local recommendations online and on some of our holiday parks.

Time to save for activities

Booking your holiday in advance allows you to spread out saving for spending money, making it easier to budget for activities, excursions, and dining. This way, you can enjoy more local attractions or even take advantage of any that are happening on park, for example, our Forest Ranger activities if you’re visiting Green Hill Farm in the New Forest. 

Weather Guarantee

One perk of last-minute bookings, especially for camping, is the ability to check the weather forecast closer to your arrival. We heard you, and that’s why we introduced our exclusive Weather Guarantee. As the first of its kind in the UK, it offers peace of mind—simply add it to your booking, and if light rain (1.5mm/hr or more) is forecast between 8 AM and 8 PM, you’ll receive a full refund. If you’d rather not add the guarantee to your early booking, you can still check historical weather trends and pack accordingly.

Something to look forward to

Having a holiday booked in advance gives you and the family something exciting to look forward to. The countdown to your next getaway can be just as enjoyable as the trip itself, but in reality, nothing compares to that feeling when you first arrive after a long drive.

Plan around local events and let the excitement begin 

Booking early lets you align your trip with exciting local events, from Cornwall’s historic Padstow May Day to the lively Rock Oyster Festival. Experience unique British traditions like the Royal Norfolk Show and Dogstival. Plus, once your family holiday is booked, the fun begins. Use our Discover section to plan your day trips and activities, pack your bags, and get ready for the ultimate holiday by nature.

Book early with us to avoid disappointment

Why wait when you can secure the best prices, locations, and accommodation today? Book early for the widest choice of lodge breaks, glamping breaks and holiday homes and start counting down to your perfect getaway.

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