When Is the Best Time to Book a Hotel? Save Big With These Secrets!

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Did you know that booking a hotel just 15 days in advance could save you up to 13%? Crazy, right? I didn’t believe it until I tried it myself.

Booking a hotel can feel overwhelming with prices changing daily. One minute, the rate is perfect, and the next, it’s sky-high! It’s frustrating and confusing.

I’ve been in your shoes, trying to figure out the best time to book without blowing my budget. After some trial and error (and a little research), I found a strategy that works.

If you’ve ever asked, “When should I book my hotel to save money?” you’re in the right place. Let me share what I’ve learned to help you save big on your next trip!

The image shows a man and a woman sitting on a bed in a hotel room. They are both wearing white bathrobes and are smiling at each other. On the bed, there is a wooden tray with two plates of food and a bottle of champagne. The tray is placed on the bedside table. The bed has white linens and there are two nightstands with lamps on either side of the bed. The walls are painted in a light color and there is an artwork hanging on the wall. The overall mood of the image is happy and relaxed.
How Far in Advance Should You Book a Hotel?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but statistics suggest last-minute bookings often save you more money. According to a 2022 NerdWallet study analyzing hotel rates from 2019 to mid-2021, booking just 15 days in advance can save you an average of 13% compared to booking four months out.

But keep these tips in mind:

  • For busy travel periods (like holidays), book earlier to secure your stay.
  • For popular vacation spots (e.g., Hawaii or the Caribbean), rates tend to drop 2–3 months before your trip.
  • For business hubs (like New York or Chicago), prices typically drop closer to the stay date.

The Risks of Last-Minute Hotel Bookings

While last-minute bookings can save money, they come with risks:

  • Your preferred hotel might sell out.
  • Nearby hotels could get fully booked, leaving fewer options.

To avoid these issues, consider booking a room with free cancellation. This way, you can lock in a reasonable rate early and cancel if a better deal comes along.

Pro Tip: Monitor hotel prices after booking. If rates drop, cancel and rebook at the lower price (just make sure your original booking allows free cancellations).

Does the Day or Time Matter?

The idea that certain days or times yield better rates is largely a myth. While hotel prices fluctuate, savings from booking on a specific day or time are minimal. Instead, focus on timing your booking window:

  • 2–3 months in advance for vacation destinations.
  • About 15 days in advance for business cities or low-demand areas.

Whenever you find a deal you’re happy with, go ahead and book it.

Key Takeaways for Booking Hotels

  • Last-minute savings: Booking 15 days before your trip can often save money.
  • Plan for peak times: Book early for holidays or high-demand travel periods.
  • Monitor rates: Take advantage of free cancellation policies to rebook if prices drop.
  • Timing matters: Look at booking windows instead of specific days.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to save more and stress less while planning your trip.

Avatar of Rahul Siddharth

He is a dedicated travel writer with a wealth of 10 Years + experience that enriches his narratives. He holds a degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IHM Dehradun, which he couples with hands-on expertise in the field. Drawing from his diverse experiences, Rahul's writings offer readers a captivating glimpse into the world of travel. Embark on a journey of exploration and inspiration with Rahul as your guide. Read More


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