How to Score Amazing Last Minute Travel Deals

Have you ever had the sudden urge to get away on an affordable, spontaneous trip? It may seem impossible to do with expensive last-minute flights and hotels, but with some simple yet effective strategies, any savvy traveller can score amazing deals even at the eleventh hour.

By following just a few key tips, you can finally take that last-minute dream holiday without blowing your budget. In this easy how-to guide, we reveal some of the best ways to save big when planning travel at the last minute.

Be Flexible with Destinations

The best way to save money on last-minute getaways is to stay flexible with destination options. While your dream spot may be Hawaii, being open to alternative locations that have sales during your timeframe can lead to major savings opportunities. Sign up for travel newsletters to get alerts on limited-time discounts and flash sales for upcoming trips. Also, use explore tools like Transfer Travel to easily see cheaper destination choices for your target dates. Expand your geographic range to increase your chances of scoring a deal.

Opt for Midweek Travel

Most leisure travellers book weekends away, so aim for midweek flights and hotel stays on Tuesday through Thursday nights and you can easily save 40% or more. Schools are still in session and most people are working, meaning hotels and airlines deeply discount midweek dates to fill unused inventory. The same amenities and activities are available – often at discounted midweek rates and with fewer people competing with you for them.

Check Alternate Nearby Airports

Don’t just search your home airport when looking for airfare deals. Expand flight searches to include surrounding airports within a 3-5 hour drive, as you may find much lower fares at nearby hubs that are vying to fill seats. The extra driving or public transport time often pales in comparison to hundreds of pounds in airfare savings. Stay open-minded about airport options.

Book Private Accommodation

Unlike hotels, private holiday rentals via sites like Airbnb and Vrbo often offer last-minute deals, especially for midweek dates when occupancy is lower. Owners would rather make some income as opposed to leaving rooms empty, so scoring 20-25% off standard rates is common if you are booking close to the date. You’ll enjoy home-like amenities, often with kitchens to cook meals and save more, as well as plenty of space – all while paying under market price by being flexible on lodging options.

Fly at Off-Peak Times

If your dates are flexible, flying at off-peak times can lead to big savings. Avoid morning and early evening flights during peak business commuting times. Opt instead for overnight or mid-day flights when airports are less crowded. This allows you to take advantage of lower demand pricing. Avoid flying on Fridays and Sundays when most travellers are heading out or returning from weekend getaways.

Using these simple yet effective tricks, you can now easily book affordable last-minute trips and finally take that spontaneous getaway you’ve been dreaming about! The ability to be flexible and open-minded is key to unlocking amazing travel savings, even at the very last minute.