There isn’t a single answer to this question because every journey is different.
If you’re popping into town for dinner, you probably don’t need to think about it weeks in advance. If you’ve got a flight to catch at 4am, you’re organising transport for a wedding or you need a minibus for eight people, leaving it until the last minute isn’t a great idea.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that taxis can always be booked on demand. Sometimes that’s true. Sometimes it isn’t. The busier the day, the more likely it is that the vehicles you want are already spoken for.
So, how early should you actually book?
For everyday journeys
If it’s a straightforward journey across London and you’re travelling during the week, booking the day before is usually plenty.
Some people prefer to book on the day, and that can work too, but it does mean you’re relying on a driver being available when you need one. If it’s an important appointment or somewhere you can’t afford to be late, there’s very little downside to booking ahead.
It takes one thing off your mind and means you know your transport is already arranged.
Airport transfers are worth booking as soon as you can
Airport journeys are different.
Your taxi isn’t just another booking. It’s part of a much bigger journey that includes check in times, security queues and, ultimately, catching a flight.
Once you’ve booked your flights, it’s sensible to book your airport transfer as well.
That doesn’t mean you need to plan six months ahead, but if your holiday is already organised there’s little reason to leave the taxi until the week before.
It also gives you time to confirm things like:
- how many people are travelling
- how much luggage you’re taking
- whether you need a larger vehicle
- your flight number and terminal
Getting those details sorted early makes everything much easier as your departure date gets closer.
Busy times fill up more quickly
There are certain times of year when demand naturally increases.
School holidays, Christmas, New Year and bank holiday weekends are all busy periods, particularly for airport transfers.
The same applies if there’s a major concert, sporting event or festival taking place nearby.
If you already know you’ll need transport during one of these periods, it’s worth booking sooner rather than later. You’ll usually have more choice of collection times and vehicle types than if you leave it until the last few days.
Larger vehicles should be booked early
If you need more than a standard saloon, don’t assume one will always be available.
People often remember to book the holiday but forget about the transport until a few days before they leave, only to discover that larger vehicles have already been reserved.
The same goes for minibuses and executive vehicles.
As soon as you’ve confirmed your plans, it’s worth arranging the transport as well.
Early morning collections deserve a bit more planning
A taxi at 2pm is one thing.
A taxi at 3.30am is another.
Most companies can provide early morning collections, but they’re easier to schedule when they’re booked in advance.
If you’re travelling to the airport before sunrise or you need to be somewhere first thing in the morning, don’t leave the booking until the night before if you can avoid it.
Can you book months in advance?
Yes.
In fact, plenty of people do.
Holidaymakers often book their airport transfer as soon as they’ve booked their flights. Families arrange transport for weddings months before the big day, and businesses regularly schedule journeys well in advance for meetings and events.
If your plans change, most companies will simply update your booking, provided you give them enough notice.
Give as much information as you can
A booking only takes a few minutes, but providing the right information makes a big difference.
Let the taxi company know where you’re travelling from, where you’re going, how many people are travelling and if you’ve got anything out of the ordinary, such as lots of luggage, golf clubs or a pushchair.
For airport journeys, include your flight number if you have it.
It helps the driver prepare properly and reduces the chance of any surprises on the day.
So, when should you book?
If it’s an ordinary local journey, booking the day before is usually enough.
For airport transfers, weddings, business travel, larger vehicles or anything where timing really matters, it’s worth arranging your taxi as soon as your plans are confirmed.
There isn’t really an advantage to leaving it until the last minute, but there are plenty of reasons to get it booked early. You’ll know your transport is organised, you’ll have more choice, and when the day arrives it’s one less thing to think about.
