Holidaymakers often consider booking a staycation over the weekend for relaxation, but this could lead to higher costs. It is advisable to wait until the weekend rush subsides and corporate travel plans are finalized before booking. Tuesday is suggested as the best day to secure holiday accommodations due to increased availability and platforms eager to fill remaining spaces quickly. Flexibility is key to take advantage of last-minute cancellations that hotels may offer at discounted rates.
While some great hotel deals may surface after 6pm for spontaneous bookers, major chains like Premier Inn and Travelodge operate differently. Travel specialist Linda Reynolds recommends booking early for the best deals. Platforms like Google Hotels, Kayak, and Trivago can alert users about price drops, helping them find affordable holiday options.
Choosing hotel dates between Sunday and Thursday tends to offer better value and avoids weekend price hikes. Avoiding school holidays, bank holidays, and local events can help save money. Bookings on Sunday nights in cities are usually cheaper than on Fridays or Saturdays, while midweek stays in rural areas are often more affordable than weekends.
For those planning a getaway to cities like London, considering accommodation in zones two to three outside the city center can provide better value with good transport links. The same principle applies to other major cities like Glasgow, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Bristol. Money coach Maddy Alexander-Grout suggests exploring the Plans Change marketplace to find discounted trips, with discounts starting at 25% off.
Opting for alternative accommodation locations and staying flexible with booking times can lead to significant savings on holiday expenses.
