33 Trips You Should Book a Year in Advance

"With life's unpredictabilities, planning a trip a year in advance may seem like too much. However, one could argue that it's precisely because of these uncertainties that a good plan, and buffers against any last-minute hiccups, are needed. Getting a head start on an itinerary, and having enough time for preparation, research, and contingencies are absolutely necessary-especially when you're embarking on some of the most remarkable (often, once-in-a-lifetime) travel experiences that the world has to offer. There's no time to be wasted."

""When thinking about travel that should be booked a year in advance, there are a few factors at play like availability, access, and complexity of itinerary and experiences," says Tom Marchant, the owner and co-founder of Black Tomato. In the age of overtourism, increased international travel, and ever-changing policies, it's also become important to think about possible travel restrictions, tourism caps, and potentially necessary permits and visas. Figuring all of this out now is well worth not having to stress later."

Planning bucket-list trips a year in advance allows time to secure limited availability, special access, and complex itineraries. Advance preparation provides buffer against last-minute hiccups and enables thorough research, logistical coordination, and contingency planning. Increasing overtourism, international travel, and shifting policies make early consideration of permits, visas, tourism caps, and travel restrictions essential. Early booking reduces stress and increases the chance of arranging once-in-a-lifetime experiences that require coordination with specialists. A year-long lead time supports arranging seasonal celebrations, historical or cultural excursions, and challenging outdoor adventures that demand detailed planning and permits.

Read at Conde Nast Traveler