Are hotels cheaper if you stay longer?
How much can I save booking last-minute?
When it comes to booking hotels, many people wonder if it is cheaper to book last-minute. According to a study by NerdWallet, last-minute hotel deals are real, especially at high-end hotels. Their data suggests that it is actually cheaper to book a hotel room 15 days out compared to booking four months in advance.
However, it's important to note that the savings could be negligible. While you may find some great last-minute deals, the difference in price may not be significant enough to justify the risk of waiting until the last minute to book your hotel.
What about international vs. domestic hotels?
The NerdWallet study also looked at the difference between booking last-minute for international hotels versus domestic hotels. They found that the savings were generally greater for international hotels. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as fluctuating exchange rates or lower demand for international hotels.
What about booking luxury hotels last-minute?
One interesting finding from the NerdWallet study is that booking luxury hotels last-minute can often lead to greater savings. Luxury hotels may have higher prices initially, but if they have empty rooms close to the date, they may be willing to offer significant discounts to fill those rooms.
Why you may not want to book last-minute
While there are potential savings to be had by booking last-minute, there are also some reasons why you may not want to wait until the last minute to book your hotel. First, availability can be a concern. If you have specific dates or locations in mind, waiting until the last minute may limit your options. Second, the stress of not having a hotel booked in advance can be overwhelming for some people. Lastly, if you have specific preferences or requirements for your hotel, such as certain amenities or room types, waiting until the last minute may make it harder to find a hotel that meets your needs.
If you're debating when to book your hotel
If you're unsure whether to book your hotel in advance or wait until the last minute, here are a few tips to help you make the decision:
- Consider the destination and time of year. If you're traveling to a popular destination during peak season, it may be wise to book in advance to secure the best deals and ensure availability.
- Monitor prices over time. Keep an eye on hotel prices leading up to your travel dates. If you notice a downward trend, it may be worth waiting to see if prices continue to drop.
- Be flexible with your travel dates. If you have some flexibility in your travel dates, you may have a better chance of finding last-minute deals.
- Sign up for hotel loyalty programs. Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that provide benefits such as discounted rates, room upgrades, and other perks. These programs can help you save money regardless of when you book your hotel.
Educational and Conversational Benefits of Booking Last-Minute
In addition to potential cost savings, booking a hotel last-minute can also have educational and conversational benefits. By waiting until the last minute, you may have the opportunity to learn more about the local area and culture from hotel staff or other travelers. This can enhance your overall travel experience and provide unique insights that you may not have gained if you had booked in advance.
Millennials and Last-Minute Hotel Bookings
Millennials, in particular, are known for their spontaneous and flexible travel preferences. Booking a hotel last-minute allows them to take advantage of any sudden travel opportunities that arise, without the need for extensive planning or commitment. This flexibility aligns with the millennial mindset and can add excitement and adventure to their travel experiences.