Finding a great hotel deal at the last minute can be a savvy way to save money and snag a spontaneous getaway. Here’s how you can find the best last-minute hotel deals:
1. Use Last-Minute Booking Apps and Websites
- Popular Apps: Apps like HotelTonight, Hotwire, and Priceline are specifically designed for last-minute bookings. They often offer discounted rates for unsold hotel rooms.
- Comparison Websites: Sites like Trivago and Kayak aggregate last-minute deals from various sources, making it easy to compare prices.
2. Check Hotel Websites Directly
- Hotel Chains: Many hotel chains offer last-minute deals on their own websites or apps. Check brands like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt for special offers.
- Hotel Promotions: Some hotels have exclusive promotions or packages available only on their website. Look for any limited-time offers or flash sales.
3. Sign Up for Deal Alerts
- Email Newsletters: Subscribe to hotel and travel deal newsletters. Many hotels and travel agencies send out last-minute offers to their email subscribers.
- Deal Alerts: Set up price alerts on booking platforms. Websites like Booking.com and Expedia allow you to track prices for specific dates and locations.
4. Use Flexible Travel Dates
- Flexible Dates: If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you may find better deals. Many booking platforms allow you to search within a range of dates to find the cheapest rates.
- Midweek Stays: Hotels often have lower rates during weekdays compared to weekends. Consider staying midweek for potential savings.
5. Join Loyalty Programs
- Hotel Loyalty Programs: Membership in hotel loyalty programs can provide access to exclusive rates and last-minute deals. Points can sometimes be used for last-minute stays at a discounted rate.
- Rewards Points: Use accumulated rewards points for a free or discounted stay. Many programs allow point redemptions even on short notice.
6. Check Social Media and Apps
- Social Media: Follow hotels and travel deal accounts on social media. Sometimes, hotels post exclusive deals or flash sales on their social media platforms.
- Apps and Notifications: Enable notifications for travel and booking apps to stay updated on last-minute deals and promotions.
7. Look for Mobile-Only Discounts
- Mobile Apps: Some hotels and booking platforms offer exclusive discounts through their mobile apps. Download relevant apps and check for mobile-only deals.
- App Deals: Use apps like HotelTonight or Booking.com’s mobile app to access last-minute discounts that may not be available on desktop sites.
8. Consider Alternative Accommodations
- Short-Term Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo offer last-minute rental options that can be more flexible and sometimes cheaper than hotels.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Explore alternative accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses, which often have lower rates and availability for last-minute bookings.
9. Negotiate Directly with Hotels
- Call the Hotel: Contact the hotel directly to inquire about any last-minute deals or unlisted discounts. Hotels may offer lower rates to fill rooms as the check-in date approaches.
- Membership Discounts: Ask if they offer any discounts for members of organizations or affiliations you belong to.
10. Book Late at Night
- Late-Night Deals: Hotels sometimes offer last-minute deals late at night to fill remaining rooms. Booking late in the evening can sometimes yield significant savings.
11. Check Hotel Aggregators and Deal Sites
- Deal Websites: Websites like Groupon and Travelzoo often have last-minute hotel deals and packages. Check these sites for discounted rates and offers.
- Hotel Aggregators: Use aggregators like Skyscanner to compare last-minute rates across multiple booking platforms.
12. Be Prepared to Act Quickly
- Availability: Last-minute deals can disappear quickly. Be prepared to book as soon as you find a deal that fits your needs.
- Flexible Cancellation: Look for deals with flexible cancellation policies in case your plans change.
Final Thoughts
Finding last-minute hotel deals can be a rewarding experience if you know where to look and how to act quickly. By using booking apps, checking directly with hotels, and being flexible with your travel plans, you can score great deals and enjoy spontaneous getaways.
