[waialua359]

This isnt about whether Id book the team's trip early or not with payment.
As a lead coordinator for years, I am able to reserve airline seats 30+ at a time without actually putting a down payment, until very late.
This helps me lock in cheaper rates and guarantees me flights that all of us can get on. We dont allow student travel by themselves at various times, just so that we can get better rates/available seats.

If I'm #100 on the waitlist, I wouldnt sweat it. But if I was #5, I'd certainly think that I have a good chance on getting in via at-large and can spend time early enough planning.

Try booking 30+ people 2 weeks before you have to go from Hawaii to the East Coast. My airfare costs alone for the team to Atlanta has never been under $20,000+ ever/year. Driving is one thing, but flying is a whole different animal 4-5000 miles away.