Passport question - the 6 month issue

[MrsDThaskala]

Hi, I can't find the answer online so asking you wonderful MN'ters.

My teen's passport expires Feb 26. We have a holiday booked for July, and a trip in October. The October trip will need a new passport so she can have 6 months minimum. Should I file for a new one in August, or can I do it before the July trip as in May? That way I've guaranteed arrival time etc. can you apply early or is it best to wait till late August/Sep?

where are you travelling too?

I have this and looked it up and it said you should apply for a new one 9 months before the old one expires.

My recent experience of online renewals was that it was very quick. Anything I could pay for to speed it up, I did. So on that basis, I'd renew immediately after return from July holiday. I would do it online and send the passport in via special delivery.

If the return from holiday is at the very end of July, that may make me feel a bit anxious...perhaps then I'd consider an appointment on my return (presuming you can do the appointment option for children).