Last-minute travel can be thrilling—a sudden, spontaneous opportunity to visit a new business. The only way to find out is to check.
Check different hotel dates before booking a flight (and vice versa)
If that beautiful beach resort you have been eyeing seems unusually expensive, try searching for slightly different travel dates. A hotel room that costs $250 per night from Oct. 1 through Oct. 7 might drop to $175 per night from Oct. 2 through Oct. 7, simply because a large conference at the property concludes on Oct. 1.
If your schedule is flexible, you are in a much better position to save money. Even if your dates are fixed, checking a few alternative ranges can reveal whether hidden variables are inflating your rate.
Check bundle deals
If you are fortunate, packages that combine a flight and a hotel room can offer incredible last-minute savings. This is due to wholesaling, where large blocks of rooms are purchased or reserved by a company that intends to resell them for a profit. If they find themselves with excess inventory, they may begin slashing prices at the <a t know until you check. If they still have availability, private owners may be willing to lower their rates to ensure their property is occupied.
Know your airline’s 24-hour cancellation policy
Unless you are prepared to pay a premium, most airfare is nonrefundable. However, you might not realize that the “nonrefundable” status often does not take effect until 24 hours after your purchase. All major U.S. airlines allow you to cancel for a full refund within that 24-hour window, as they are governed by Department of Transportation regulations, which other booking platforms may or may not follow.
Since last-minute travelers are dealing with a market of rapidly shifting prices, you might as well check fares again 23 hours after you book, just in case a better deal appears.
Don’t assume award redemption rates mirror cash rates
If you are considering using miles or points to bypass a high last-minute fare, investigate your options first. The formula airlines use to determine when to release saver-level award seats is notoriously opaque. Occasionally, airlines offer well-priced <a t be able to switch rooms if you are dissatisfied, as the hotel is near capacity. You might secure a better rate at a property that still has plenty of vacancies.
Be sure to reserve a car as soon as possible. You do not want to arrive at your destination airport only to discover that there are no vehicles available. Furthermore, just because you can make a reservation online does not guarantee the rental agency has cars in stock. Call ahead to confirm and inquire about any active discounts.
Peruse restaurant and activity reservations online
If you are heading to a ski resort, theme park, spring break destination, or any other likely crowded area, restaurants may be booked weeks in advance. If you are hoping for a sit-down meal or two, take a quick peek at
