You may think December is ages away, but blink twice and Detty December will be on your neck. For the uninitiated, Detty December is more than just a holiday season, it’s a whole cultural movement. Think endless parties, concerts, family reunions, champagne-fueled brunches, jollof wars, and a few soft life moments sprinkled in between.

If this is your first year flying out for the festivities in Nigeria or Ghana, welcome. But before you book that VIP table or pack a single pair of sunglasses, here’s what you need to do to prep like a true seasoned traveler.

1. Book That Flight, Like, Yesterday
Flights to West Africa in December? Whew. They don’t play. Prices are already sitting pretty at $2.5k–$3k and rising by the minute. The earlier you book, the more your wallet will thank you. Waiting until the fall to secure your ticket is a rookie mistake. And trust, airlines know we’re all trying to get home for Detty season, so there are no deals coming.

2. Handle That Visa (Before It Handles You)
If you’re heading to Nigeria and you don’t hold a Nigerian passport, you’ll likely need a visa, and now is the time to start the process. Visa timelines can be unpredictable, and you don’t want to be stressed out chasing paperwork weeks before your trip. For Nigerians in the U.S., this may include an in-person visit to the embassy in Atlanta or mailing off your documents. Yes, visa-on-arrival is technically an option, but it can get real messy, especially during peak season. Save yourself the headache and get this squared away early.

3. Lock In Your Accommodations
Hotels and Airbnbs book out fast during Detty December, and the good spots? Gone in a flash. Whether you’re planning to stay in Lekki, Accra, Victoria Island, or somewhere more lowkey, securing comfortable (and safe) lodging should be at the top of your checklist. Pro tip: even if you’re rolling with a group, make sure everyone agrees on a location and budget early. The “we’ll figure it out when we land” crew always ends up crashing in places they wish they didn’t.
Let’s be clear: where you sleep does matter. After all, you’ll need somewhere worthy of recovering from a night of dancing and bottle service or at least a place with A/C and decent Wi-Fi.

Final Thoughts: Plan Now, Party Better Later
Detty December is a vibe, a lifestyle, and—for many of us—a yearly reunion with the culture, community, and chaos we crave. But if you want to fully enjoy it without the last-minute stress, the key is preparation. Book early. Get your documents in order. Secure your accommodations like the bougie traveler you are. So go ahead, book that flight. The countdown to December has already begun.