# Booking Timeline & Checklist

## Critical Dates

| When | What | Why |
|------|------|-----|
| **Now - March 2026** | Book ferry | Early booking = best prices, choice of dates |
| **January - February 2026** | Book gîte | High season gîtes go fast in popular areas |
| **March 2026** | Finalise details | Activities, insurance, car check |
| **April - June 2026** | Prepare | Packing lists, research specific towns |
| **18 July 2026** | Depart! | Holiday begins |

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## Booking Checklist

### Ferry
- [ ] Check Brittany Ferries prices for chosen route
- [ ] Compare dates (flexibility saves money)
- [ ] Book cabin for overnight crossings
- [ ] Print confirmation

### Accommodation
- [ ] Browse Gîtes de France for chosen region
- [ ] Check Airbnb / Booking.com for alternatives
- [ ] Read reviews carefully
- [ ] Book and pay deposit
- [ ] Confirm amenities (kitchen, WiFi, parking, etc.)

### Insurance & Documentation
- [ ] Travel insurance (family policy)
- [ ] EHIC/GHIC cards for all (free from NHS website)
- [ ] Check passports valid (6+ months remaining)
- [ ] Car insurance covers Europe (call insurer)
- [ ] European breakdown cover (check if already have)

### Car Preparation
- [ ] Service check before travel
- [ ] UK sticker (post-Brexit requirement)
- [ ] Headlight beam deflectors (for driving on right)
- [ ] Warning triangle, reflective vests (French legal requirement)
- [ ] Spare bulbs, first aid kit (recommended)

### Money
- [ ] Notify bank of travel
- [ ] Consider travel money card (Wise, Revolut)
- [ ] Some cash in euros

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## Money-Saving Tips

1. **Book ferry early** - Brittany Ferries discounts for early bookers
2. **Stay inland** - Gîtes 20-30 mins from coast are much cheaper
3. **Self-cater properly** - Cook at gîte most nights
4. **Mix free and paid activities** - Beaches, villages, markets are free
5. **Avoid motorways** - Take scenic routes, skip tolls
6. **Shop at markets** - Cheaper than supermarkets for produce
7. **Picnic lunches** - Don't eat out for every meal
8. **Book gîte direct** - Avoid platform fees where possible

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## Files Reference

| File | Purpose |
|------|---------|
| `REQUIREMENTS.md` | Your requirements and constraints |
| `OPTION-1-northern-spain.md` | Full details for Spain option |
| `OPTION-2-france-dordogne.md` | Full details for Dordogne option |
| `OPTION-3-france-brittany.md` | Full details for Brittany option |
| `SUMMARY.md` | Quick comparison and recommendation |
| `TIMELINE.md` | This file - booking checklist |

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*Created: 15 March 2026*