Why Book a Last Minute Vacation?

Are you like me and crave some sunshine and sand this summer? Can’t wait to sun yourself beach-side while listening to the kids making a splash in the ocean? If so, you might very well be considering a last minute vacation for the family, and good for you!

We as parents are so stressed throughout the school year and vacation plans are put last on the list. Whether it is a stressful house move or an unexpected bill a last minute vacation can be a great idea. But, what do you need to bear in mind before booking your last minute getaway? And is it ultimately a practical choice? Here are three things to consider when taking a last minute vacation.

Flexibility

Booking in advance means you can choose which days suit your schedule and plan your itinerary down to a T. But, being flexible is the name of the game with a last minute holiday and that’s the thrill of it. Be prepared to travel mid-week at off-peak times when demand is low; not a problem when a hot, sandy beach is your end destination. Start to think about jetting off at least a few weeks in advance, so your plans don’t clash with any upcoming family events. If you have this type of space in your schedule, it’s an ideal option, but if you don’t it probably won’t be convenient.

Cost

Saving money is a big draw when it comes to booking a holiday. You might not find as many last-minute bargains as you used to – with tour operators now assessing numbers better – but there are definitely still lots of hot holiday deals to be had. Compare these to make sure you have the best price going. Then just read the small print and bear in mind that there may be additional costs, such as insurance and car rentals on arrival. Both you and the kids will appreciate having more money to spend on fun times. Booking very far in advance sometimes has the same types of advantages, so you need to weigh up what works best for you.

Destination

You might not end up finding a deal on your dream destination, but you will definitely have a unique experience with your loved ones. Read reviews and recommendations by other travelers, research any up-and-coming hotspots and check weather forecasts to help you decide where to go. It’s also worthwhile finding out about the local area and if there are amenities nearby the accommodation you will be staying in. Exploring new places for a fraction of the price? Exciting stuff! You might even jet off to a country you’d never considered before – and fall in love with it.

Planning vacations in advance may be the easier option for those who like to be super organized, but booking last-minute can both save you money and take you on a whirlwind adventure full of new experiences and memories for the whole family. Just remember to make sure your passports are still valid before you look into this! And if you can’t get late time off or you prefer to save up in advance then stick to booking ahead.

Where would you love to go {last minute} this summer?