The Savvy Traveler’s Guide: 7 Tips for Saving Big on Last-Minute Travel
Get Ready!
As a Digital Nomad for the last several years, I’ve learned a few things about travelling the world. Contrary to popular belief, I have learned that last-minute travel doesn’t always mean breaking the bank.
With the right strategies and flexibility, you can snag those elusive deals and make your spontaneous travel dreams a reality without ruining your budget. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or an urgent business trip, these tips will guide you to clever, budget-friendly choices.
Get Set!
1. Be Flexible with Your Dates: Flexibility is your wallet’s best friend when booking last minute. Shifting your departure or return date by just a day or two, or even a few hours, can lead to significant savings. Keep an open mind about when you travel, and you’ll open doors to lower prices.
2. Consider Alternative Destinations: Sometimes, the destination you have in mind might be out of your budget, but there are always hidden gems awaiting discovery. Be open to exploring less popular or off-season locations. These destinations often offer the same excitement at a fraction of the cost.
Suppose you need to be in a specific location. Flying into a city reasonably close to your desired location and then bussing it might be cheaper. I found that flying into Dublin, Ireland, and taking a luxury bus up to Belfast, Northern Ireland, was more reasonable and took the same time — all this was because of screwy airline policy. In this case, from Toronto, Canada, you fly into Dublin regardless. Then you must go to Heathrow, England, before returning to Belfast. The same applies to international flights in Poland; Krakow to Warsaw is just as weird.
The travel busses are just and sometimes more comfortable than planes, and off-season often means that you have easier access to places that are a nightmare to get into during high season.
3. Use Travel Apps and Websites: Leverage technology to find the best deals. Websites like Expedia offer comprehensive travel options, often with discounts on last-minute bookings. Their user-friendly interfaces make comparing prices and finding the best deals easy. I’m constantly comparing prices even when I’m not planning an immediate trip — I like to imagine where I might want to go next, especially in cold Canadian winters.
4. Sign Up for Alerts: Stay ahead of the game by signing up for price drop alerts and last-minute deal notifications from your favourite travel sites. This way, you’re always in the loop when prices dip.
I once got a great deal for a luxury hotel; The Royal York Hotel was a treat I never would have known about had I not gotten an alert on a sweet deal!
5. Leverage Loyalty Programs: If you’re part of an airline or hotel loyalty program, don’t forget to use your points or rewards. These can often be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or upgrades, significantly reducing travel expenses.
Collecting points through the VIA Rail Preference Reward Program got me a free trip, and I’m close to another!
6. Book Package Deals: Look for package deals that bundle flights, hotels, and car rentals. These packages can offer substantial savings compared to booking each element separately. Travel platforms like Expedia often have exclusive package deals for last-minute travellers.
7. Travel Light to Avoid Baggage Fees: With airlines charging hefty fees for checked bags, packing light can save you money. Stick to carry-on luggage if possible, especially for short trips.
I have an exceptional bag I use all the time and have lived out of it for months. It’s a convertible backpack with wheels and a long handle. It also has lots of pockets to keep everything safe and organized. It is, however, on the larger side of the acceptable limit for most airlines. Bonus tip: ensure you know the carry-on bag measurements and other rules. I once travelled on a budget airline, and they wouldn’t let me take my unique bag on the plane. I had to remove my computer from its designated sleeve, carry it, wrap it in a jacket, and hope it would be safe in the overhead bin. Thankfully, it was OK, but it was a worry. As a Digital Nomad — my computer is my office and often my only connection to family and friends worldwide.
Go!
Last-minute travel doesn’t have to be synonymous with expensive travel. By following these seven savvy tips, you can enjoy spontaneous trips without the stress of overspending. Remember, flexibility, clever planning, and using the right resources like Expedia can turn you into a last-minute travel pro. So, pack your bags and prepare to explore the world on a budget!
Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase. I recommend these products because I actively use them and find them beneficial, not because of my small commissions.
