We’ve all been there — a sudden need for a hotel, whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or an unexpected business trip. Booking accommodations at the last minute can feel like a gamble, especially if you’re trying to balance comfort with affordability. But with the right strategies and tools, you can score great last-minute hotel deals without the stress.
Here’s how to make it happen, while keeping your travel budget firmly under control.
Use the Right Apps for Last-Minute Savings
When it comes to snagging deals on short notice, specialized booking apps are your best friend. Platforms like HotelTonight and Priceline Express Deals specialize in offering deep discounts on unsold rooms. Hotels often prefer to fill vacancies at a reduced rate rather than leave them empty, and these apps give you direct access to those last-minute offers.
For same-day bookings, HotelTonight is especially useful. It curates options based on your location and filters by price, ratings, and amenities, helping you make quick decisions under pressure.
Stack Savings with Cashback Apps
Before finalizing your booking, maximize your savings by using cashback apps. With Fluz, you can buy hotel gift cards and earn instant cashback — essentially giving you immediate savings on your stay. Whether you’re booking through third-party platforms or directly with the hotel, Fluz helps you stretch your budget even when you’re short on time.
Rakuten and Ibotta also regularly feature hotel booking partners. Activate offers on these apps before making your reservation to stack extra cashback on top of your last-minute discount. For example, Rakuten often includes deals for Expedia, Booking.com, and other popular platforms.
Book Flexibly to Get the Best Price
If your travel plans allow for flexibility, try searching for hotels in nearby neighborhoods rather than just the city center. Expanding your search radius can reveal less obvious, more affordable options.
Additionally, weekdays typically offer better rates than weekends, and checking in later in the day can sometimes unlock last-minute discounts as hotels adjust pricing to fill empty rooms.
Check Hotel Websites for Direct-Booking Perks
While third-party apps and cashback portals are powerful, don’t overlook direct hotel websites. Many hotel chains offer last-minute deals directly to customers — sometimes even undercutting aggregator prices. Hilton’s “Last Minute Deals” page or Marriott’s “Deals & Packages” section are worth a quick check.
Some hotels also include perks like free breakfast, Wi-Fi, or parking when you book directly, which adds extra value to your stay.
Sign Up for Price Alerts
Even if you’re booking at the last minute, you can set up price alerts with platforms like Google Hotels or Kayak. These tools monitor hotel prices and notify you of drops, helping you catch flash sales and temporary discounts.
