Planning a big trip, international camp, or even a weekend away with your youth group?
One of the most common questions leaders ask is: when should we start fundraising? Whether you’re part of a Scout group, Guide unit, or youth organisation in the UK, getting ahead with your fundraising plan makes all the difference. In this post, we’ll help you work backwards from your event date and share practical tips to make your fundraising journey feel exciting not overwhelming.
It might feel too soon to think about raising money for a 2026/27 trip, but the most successful groups plan 12–24 months ahead. Early planning gives you more flexibility, lowers pressure, and allows your group to try different strategies, without the stress.
Why fundraising timelines matter for youth groups
Many groups naturally begin fundraising once a trip is confirmed, but if plans are in place early, starting ahead of time can make a big difference. Spreading out the effort reduces pressure and gives you more freedom to choose the fundraisers that really work for your group.
When you start early, you:
Whether you’re planning a fundraiser for an international trip, school expedition, or local Scout or Guide camp, starting your fundraising early helps build excitement and reduces stress down the line.
A seasonal fundraising timeline that works
Here’s a flexible planning framework that can help Girlguiding units, Scout sections, and school teams pace their efforts, without burnout.
Tip: This approach works especially well for groups planning 2026/27 trips — starting in 2025–2026 is ideal.Why easy product fundraisers work so well
When you’re stretched for time or have a small team of volunteers, simple product fundraisers can be a lifesaver.
That’s why more groups are turning to low-risk options like candle sales. Collective Sales, for example, offers:
Involve your group early on
Whether you’re taking 6 Explorers to Japan, 15 teens from a youth theatre group to perform in Edinburgh, or a Year 11 class on a cultural trip abroad, make it a team effort from day one.
Teenagers thrive when they feel involved and empowered. Families are more likely to support when they’re kept in the loop, and leaders benefit from the shared momentum and commitment.
Starting early doesn’t just help your bank balance. It builds group confidence, momentum, and clarity.
Whether you’re taking 6 Explorers to Japan, 15 teens from a youth theatre group to perform in Edinburgh, or a Year 11 class on a cultural trip abroad, make it a team effort from day one.
Teenagers thrive when they feel involved and empowered. Families are more likely to support when they’re kept in the loop, and leaders benefit from the shared momentum and commitment.
Starting early doesn’t just help your bank balance. It builds group confidence, momentum, and clarity.
Discover more posts
Easy fundraising Ideas for schools and youth groups in the UK
Fundraising for schools, university societies, and youth organizations doesn't need to be complicated. From school trip fundraisers to activity-based university societies or local youth organisations, this guide offers fundraising ideas that are simple, [...]
Set up for autumn fundraising success
It's time start planning your next fundraiser Autumn is one of the best times of year to start planning your fundraiser. The back-to-school season, the return of weekly group meetings, and the anticipation of [...]
A Letter to Fundraisers
You've got this! Dear First-Time Fundraiser, Take a breath — getting started is often the hardest bit. Whether it’s for a trip or a local cause, just beginning is something [...]
