Last-Minute Vacation Tips

Labor Day Weekend is fast approaching and if you think it’s too late to head out of town for the weekend, think again. Here are some great tips for planning an adventure, last minute or otherwise.

Be flexible

In order to pull off a last-minute vacation you need to be flexible with your schedule, your destination, and your service providers. Rigidity in any of these areas can easily translate into paying increased costs.

Have a game plan

Taking a last-minute vacation doesn't mean you shouldn't have a game plan. Start looking for deals during the middle of the week, as most airlines file their Web specials on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If possible, concentrate on flights departing from major hub airports. And when booking your trip, be sure to include a Saturday-night stay.

Search diligently

There is no shortage of great websites for purchasing discounted airfares and hotel rooms. Check out:

Bookingbuddy.com

Here you can enter your search for a flight, hotel, car rental or cruise and compare the prices offered by various sites (Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, etc.) with the click of one button.

Lastminute.com and Lastminutetravel.com

These sites post some great last-minute deals, as well as options for your not-so-last-minute traveling.

Tablethotels.com

This site can help you find great prices on hotel rooms around the world.

Don't forget about travel agents

Many travel agents will purchase bulk deals, giving them access to better prices. It's definitely a good idea to make a few calls as part of your search.

How about a cruise?

Cruises can make for great last-minute vacations, especially if you live near a port of embarkation, and do not require a plane flight. Generally speaking, the price of a cruise includes your travel, lodging, food and much of your entertainment. While some additional charges will apply depending on the cruise, it is a fantastic option that allows you to see many destinations for a lower cost.

Timeshares

Timeshare condos, rented directly from the owner, can offer some tremendous savings as well as more bang for your buck. While it does require diligence and common sense on your part, eBay is a great place to start your search.

When it comes to booking a trip, last minute or otherwise, be flexible and search diligently. The deals are out there, so go out and find them! And have a wonderful upcoming Labor Day weekend.