In today’s fast-paced world, not all trips are planned weeks in advance. Sometimes you need a hotel for the night, whether you’re on an impromptu road trip, missed a connecting flight, or just decided to escape the daily grind for a quick getaway. But last-minute bookings don’t have to leave you broke. In fact, with the right strategies, you can score incredible deals that those who book weeks in advance will envy. Here’s how to save big when booking a hotel last minute.
Why Hotels Offer Last-Minute Deals
Hotels prefer to fill empty rooms at a discount rather than leave them empty. Every night, an empty room represents lost revenue. This works in your favor: if you know where and how to search, you can get premium stays at affordable prices.
1. Use specialized apps for last-minute bookings
Some apps are specifically designed for last-minute hotel bookings. Some popular options include:
HotelTonight: This app selects unsold rooms and offers deep discounts. It’s easy to use and covers major cities worldwide.
Priceline Express Deals: Priceline’s “Tonight Only Deals” or “Express Deals” often offer deep discounts.
Hotwire Rates: Like Express Deals, you can book without knowing the hotel name until after payment, but the savings can be considerable.
💡 Tip: These apps often update deals throughout the day, especially after 2:00 PM, when hotels begin clearing unsold inventory.
2. Be flexible with your location
The more flexible you are, the better the deals. Stay a few blocks from the main tourist area or the city center. Often, hotels that are a bit out of the way offer better last-minute discounts to attract bookings.
3. Join loyalty programs
Many hotel chains reward their members with exclusive last-minute deals. Joining programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or IHG Rewards is free, and sometimes, just logging into your account reveals hidden fees.
4. Call the hotel directly
Don’t underestimate traditional tactics. Calling the front desk in the late afternoon can sometimes get you a better deal than the online rates. Be polite, mention you’re booking last-minute, and ask if they can match or beat the online offers. Hotels may waive the fees or even offer free upgrades.
5. Book non-refundable rates
If you’re confident about your stay, non-refundable rates are almost always cheaper. Many last-minute booking apps offer these options by default. Just check the fine print to avoid surprises.
6. Take advantage of your credit card or membership discounts
Travel credit cards and certain memberships (such as AAA or AARP) often offer hidden perks, such as last-minute discounts or extras like free breakfast, parking, or late checkout.
7. Check for Hidden Fees
A cheap rate isn’t always the cheapest if you add in parking, resort fees, or Wi-Fi. Read the terms and conditions carefully. Sometimes, paying a slightly higher base rate at a hotel with free parking and breakfast actually saves you more.
8. Travel during the week or off-season
Last-minute rates are even cheaper if you travel on off-peak days. Sunday nights, for example, often have deep discounts because the weekend crowds have left. Similarly, shoulder seasons (just before or after peak tourist season) offer better last-minute deals.
9. Bid on Rooms
Websites like Priceline’s “Ask Your Own Price” (when available) allow you to bid on hotel rooms. The trick: You won’t know the exact hotel before you pay, but you can choose the star rating and area.
10. Rack up savings with cashback and rewards apps
Booking through cashback portals or using travel reimbursement apps can add even more savings. Rakuten, Honey, or some credit card portals give you a percentage back; every little bit counts!
Final Thoughts
Getting a great last-minute hotel deal is all about timing, flexibility, and knowing where to look. The next time you need a room tonight, use these tricks to turn a potentially unnecessary expense into a great travel opportunity.
Next time, let spontaneity take over, because sometimes the best adventures (and the best deals) aren’t planned.
