Traveling on a budget is possible, even when booking at the last minute. With a little know-how and flexibility, you can snag great deals on flights, hotels, and more. Here are some best practices for finding last-minute travel bargains.
Be Flexible with Your Dates
Flexibility is key to scoring last-minute travel deals. Prices for flights and accommodations can vary greatly depending on the day of the week, time of day, and season. Use tools like fare comparison websites and apps that allow you to search for the cheapest dates. If you’re open to traveling during off-peak times, you’ll find more affordable options.
Use Last-Minute Booking Apps
Several apps and websites specialize in last-minute travel deals. Apps like HotelTonight, LastMinute.com, and Priceline offer discounted rates on hotels and flights close to the departure date. These platforms often have exclusive deals that aren’t available through traditional booking methods. Download a few and set alerts for your travel preferences.
Sign Up for Deal Alerts
Many travel websites and apps offer email alerts for last-minute deals. Sign up for notifications from sites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Travelzoo to get updates on sudden price drops and flash sales. These alerts can help you grab deals before they’re gone, as last-minute offers often have limited availability.
Check Airline and Hotel Websites Directly
While comparison sites are useful, don’t forget to check airlines’ and hotels’ own websites. Sometimes, they offer exclusive deals or special promotions not listed elsewhere. Be sure to also check for any loyalty program discounts if you’re a member of an airline or hotel rewards program.
Consider Alternate Airports and Locations
If your destination has multiple airports or nearby cities, check all options for better rates. Flying into a secondary airport or staying in a neighboring city can sometimes be much cheaper than booking directly into the main destination. Just factor in any extra travel time and costs to get to your final stop.
Use Reward Points and Travel Credit Cards
If you have reward points or travel credit cards, now is a good time to use them. Many credit card companies offer travel rewards or cash back that can be applied to last-minute bookings. Check your card’s benefits and redeem points for flights, hotels, or car rentals to reduce your costs.
Look for Package Deals
Sometimes, bundling your flight, hotel, and car rental into one package can lead to significant savings. Travel agencies and websites like Expedia or Orbitz often offer last-minute package deals that include discounts on multiple travel elements. Compare package deals with separate bookings to find the best value.
