Ever wonder if you can snag a cheaper hotel or flight by waiting until the last second? It feels risky, but many travellers swear by it. The good news is that you don’t have to guess – there are clear patterns you can use to your advantage.
Hotels and airlines often have inventory they need to fill. When a room or seat is still open a few days before departure, they’ll drop the price to avoid a loss. This is especially true for city breaks during off‑peak weeks and for flights on routes with high competition.
But the discount isn’t a guarantee. If demand is high – say a long weekend or a major event – prices can stay high or even rise. Knowing the demand level helps you decide whether to hold out or book early.
1. Be flexible with dates and destinations. Even moving your stay by a day can shave off 20‑30% of the cost. Use a calendar view on booking sites to spot the cheapest nights.
2. Set price alerts. Most travel sites let you create alerts for specific routes or hotels. You’ll get an email as soon as the price drops, so you can jump on the deal.
3. Use incognito mode. Browsers sometimes raise prices after they see repeated searches. Opening a private window keeps the results neutral.
4. Check last‑minute apps. Apps dedicated to flash sales often list unsold rooms and seats at deep discounts. They’re easy to browse on the go.
5. Consider nearby airports or stations. A short train ride can mean a lower airfare, and many city hotels are just a bus ride away from a cheaper airport.
When you’re hunting for a city break, start by looking at mid‑week stays. Business travelers vacate hotels on Fridays, leaving a gap that hotels fill with lower rates. For flights, Tuesday and Wednesday are known for price drops because airlines adjust fares after the weekend rush.
Don’t forget to read the fine print. Some ultra‑cheap fares are non‑refundable and don’t include baggage. If you’re okay with those restrictions, the savings can be huge.
Finally, trust your gut. If a deal looks too good to be true, double‑check the amenities and cancellation policy. A tiny extra cost for a flexible ticket often saves headaches later.
So next time you’re eyeing a weekend getaway, give the last‑minute option a serious look. With a bit of flexibility and the right tools, you can turn a spontaneous plan into a pocket‑friendly adventure.
Thinking about a last-minute getaway but worried about cancelling your trip and getting your money back? Discover key facts about Loveholidays' refund policy, learn practical tips for handling cancellations, and explore customer experiences to make an informed decision before booking your next adventure.