4 Money-Smart Reasons To Book Your 2026 Travel in January or February
Written by
Gabrielle Olya
Edited by
Molly Sullivan
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Many Americans are getting a head start on booking travel for the upcoming year. According to a Point.me survey, 61% of travelers who haven’t yet booked their 2026 trips plan to do so in January or February. Not only does this give you something to look forward to, but it can be a wise financial choice.
Here’s why you should consider booking all of your 2026 travel at the beginning of the year.
Get the Best Deals on Peak Travel Dates
Waiting until the last minute to book trips during popular travel times like July Fourth weekend and Thanksgiving means you have less of a selection — and are often stuck paying higher prices. Locking in rates early often means big savings.
“This is the ideal time to plan travel for the year,” Tiffany Funk, co-founder of Point.me, told GOBankingRates. “You have the best availability and prices.”
Hit Ideal Booking Windows for Low Rates
According to Point.me, you can typically get the best fares for international flights two to eight months before departure, but when it comes to peak periods like summer and the December holidays, that window can extend to three to 11 months. By booking in January and February, you’ll hit the sweet spot.
Snag Award Seats Before They’re Gone
If you want to cash in on rewards for upgraded seats for December 2026, it’s best to book those well in advance. For summer rewards travel, the best booking window has already passed — it was months ago when booking first opened — but January to February is the second-best time to book.
“If plans change, award bookings are typically cheap or free to edit,” Funk said.
Maximize Credit Card Rewards All Year Long
If you open a new credit card in January, you’ll have the whole year to reap the travel benefits.
“From a whole-wealth perspective, being thoughtful about your travel and points strategy early in the year allows you to plan for your expenses, maximize your points-earnings relative to your travel goals, and generally make your points work for you,” Funk said.
Booking early sets you up for savings, flexibility and rewards. Start planning now to make 2026 your best travel year yet.
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