The summer holidays have already begun, but you might not have booked your vacation yet. Some travelers prefer last-minute bookings, which may reduce available options but can sometimes lead to good deals and bargains. So, is this still the case, both abroad and in Belgium?
A sudden urge to escape, soak up the sun, and relax. Often, to escape weeks of bad weather, a network of travel agencies in Belgium sees an increase in last-minute bookings, up 10% compared to last year. But does booking at the last minute allow you to score good deals?
To find out, visit a travel agency. “For example, here we are offering trips starting from 700 euros per person, in a double room, for a week leaving next week,” says Maxime Hellin, a travel agent.
A half-price trip to the Costa Blanca, Spain. “It depends on the destination and the time of year,” the agent explains. “But this is still a good price for mid-July.”
Great discounts possible
This last-minute offering is not the only option. With stays at minus 35%, minus 50%. “Perhaps there were cancellations at the hotel,” says Maxime Hellin. “Or maybe the hotelier wants to sell off their remaining rooms.”
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Airlines are also trying to fill their planes. But be careful, industry players tell us that finding attractive last-minute deals is sometimes more complicated than in the past. “You need a bit of luck and a good travel agent who can find good deals for you,” the agent smiles.
Discounts are also available on coach travel.
And in Belgium?
But do you necessarily have to travel abroad to find good deals? Among the 3,000 tourist accommodations in Wallonia, some offer last-minute rates. We found several on this booking platform. “A good tip is to contact the accommodation you are interested in to see if you can negotiate a discount or get complimentary breakfast,” explains Olivier Daloze, director of VisitWallonia. “It’s still possible. Some will say yes, some will say no.”
But before negotiating, you still need to find available accommodations because the main downside of last-minute booking is a more limited selection.
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Last-Minute Holidays: Can You Still Get Great Deals?
The summer holidays are in full swing, but many travelers are still searching for the perfect getaway. Some prefer the thrill of booking last minute, hoping to snag incredible deals and bargains. But does this age-old strategy still hold true, both abroad and in Belgium?
The Last-Minute Booking Trend
A sudden desire for sun, relaxation, and escape – often driven by a week of bad weather – has travel agencies across Belgium witnessing a surge in last-minute bookings. This year, they’ve seen a 10% increase compared to 2023. But does this last-minute booking frenzy actually lead to good deals?
Travel agents report mixed results. For example, a seven-day trip to the Costa Blanca in Spain, leaving next week, can be found for €700 per person in a double room – a price that some agents consider good for the middle of July.
"It really depends on the destination and the time of year," explains Maxime Hellin, a travel agent.
Huge Discounts: When and How?
But last-minute deals are not limited to standard prices. Travel agents often see significant discounts, sometimes reaching 35-50% off the original cost.
"There might have been cancellations at the hotel, or the hotelier wants to fill their last rooms," says Hellin.
The same principle applies to flights – airlines try to fill empty seats by offering last-minute bargains. However, industry experts warn that finding these attractive deals can be trickier than it used to be.
"You need a bit of luck and a good travel agent who can find good deals for you," says Hellin, with a smile.
Last-Minute Deals on Coaches
Last-minute discounts are not exclusively found for flights and hotels. Coach travel also offers potential savings.
Last-Minute Deals in Belgium
But why travel abroad? There are plenty of good deals to be found within Belgium as well. Walloon tourist accommodation providers often offer last-minute rates.
"A good tip is to directly contact the accommodation that interests you to see if they offer any discounts, like a free breakfast," suggests Olivier Daloze, director of VisitWallonia. "Some will say yes, some will say no."
Finding and Securing Last-Minute Deals
While the potential for savings exists, remember that finding last-minute deals is a game of chance. You’ll need to be flexible with your travel dates and destinations and willing to act quickly.
Here are some practical tips for finding last-minute deals:
- Use travel comparison websites: Search engines like Kayak, Skyscanner, and Expedia can help you find the best deals on flights and accommodations.
- Contact travel agents: Travel agents have access to special deals and offers that may not be available online.
- Sign up for email alerts: Many travel companies offer email alerts that notify you regarding last-minute deals and promotions.
- Follow travel bloggers and social media accounts: Travel bloggers often share exclusive deals and tips, while social media accounts will keep you updated on the latest travel promotions.
- Consider alternative destinations: Be open to exploring less popular destinations, which may offer better prices.
- Don’t rule out package deals: Package deals often offer significant savings on flights, accommodations, and activities.
The Disadvantages of Last-Minute Travel
It’s important to note that last-minute travel does have some downsides:
- Limited availability: Last-minute bookings mean less choice. You may have to settle for a less desirable hotel, flight, or destination if your preferred options are already booked.
- Higher prices: While some last-minute deals exist, prices can often be higher than advance bookings.
- Less flexibility: Last-minute bookings may not offer as much flexibility in terms of flight schedules, accommodation options, or activities.
Finding the Right Balance
Last-minute travel can be a rewarding experience, offering great deals and spontaneous adventures. However, it’s crucial to be realistic regarding the potential challenges. Carefully weigh the benefits once morest the drawbacks before embarking on a last-minute trip.