A last-minute holiday is a great way to surprise a loved one with a well-deserved break. It can also be an excellent way to get more value for your money, especially as interest rates continue to fluctuate.

While future interest rates aren’t certain, the heatwaves experienced in Europe during the summers of 2023 and 2022 are likely to return in 2024. As Europe shows no signs of cooling down, travel agents may see a “dramatic spike” in travelers booking last-minute summer holidays again.

Will you be one of them this summer? If you book a last-minute break in June or September—two of the most popular months for vacations—you can avoid the peak season and high costs.

To help you plan a relaxing summer (without the heatwave), we’ve compiled some great destinations and discussed the benefits of booking a last-minute vacation. We’ve also highlighted the best ways to book and what to watch out for. Let us explain further.

Why Book Last-Minute Holidays?

Booking a last-minute vacation offers several benefits, including:

• Less Stress: Last-minute bookings eliminate the stress of planning far in advance. There’s more assurance that your chosen destination is safe and welcoming for travelers. You can check for updates on safety by visiting the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) website.
• Lower Costs: July and August are typically the most expensive months to book holidays. By booking outside these months, you’ll avoid peak-season prices and benefit from fewer crowds. This means a more relaxed experience exploring your destination.
• More Excitement: Last-minute bookings can add excitement to your trip because you don’t have to wait months for your getaway.
• Convenience: You can quickly book a break on the go via a mobile device or travel app.

The Rise in Natural Disasters and Travel Insurance

If you book a last-minute trip, your insurance may not cover cancellation or delays caused by natural disasters. Natural disasters include events like:

• Avalanches
• Snowstorms
• Earthquakes
• Fires
• Flooding
• Wildfires
• Hurricanes
• Lightning
• Storms
• Tornadoes
• Tsunamis
• Volcanic eruptions

However, if your vacation is part of a package deal, you’ll have better coverage in case something unexpected happens. For package holidays with flights, you should be protected by ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s License) or ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) protection.

If you book a last-minute, package, or extended holiday, you may also have legal protection. Flexi flights and open tickets may be subject to change or cancellation with minimal fees, depending on your provider.

Travel insurance, such as from Free Spirit Travel Insurance, allows you to modify your trip dates or destinations if no claim has been made.

What Insurance Coverage is Provided for Natural Disasters?

Travel Risks (Section L) cover: Limits up to $950 for extra expenses related to travel and lodging. Cancellation and Curtailment Cover (Sections A & D): Up to $3,800 (Super Plan) / $7,600 (Super Duper Plan) if your accommodation is damaged due to a natural disaster, and alternative accommodation is not provided. Unrecoverable costs: If you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen events like fire, earthquake, or civil unrest, these costs are covered. Extended Trip Interruption Cover (Section I – Super Duper only): Pays up to $1,200 for additional lodging and transport expenses if you’re forced to move to a different accommodation due to a natural disaster.

How to Book Last-Minute Vacations

7 Steps to Book a Last-Minute Vacation

1. Do Your Research: Visit package holiday websites and comparison sites. Compare the best deals and the cost of booking flights and accommodation separately.
2. Sign Up for Discounts: Once you’ve found the company offering the best deal, sign up for their newsletters to receive discount alerts.
3. Check Flash-Sale Websites: If you’re ready to travel within 48 hours, check special websites for deals not listed on comparison sites.
4. Be Flexible: Don’t just settle for what you see in the advertisements. Contact tour operators directly to find out about last-minute availability. Flexibility in your travel dates could lead to better deals. You can also consider quieter destinations for more offers and less crowd.
5. Read Customer Reviews: Check past customers’ reviews of accommodations to ensure you’re booking into highly rated hotels or resorts.
6. Know When to Book: Book a last-minute holiday at the end of the season, outside peak travel times, or choose mid-week flights for better deals.
7. Negotiate: Once you’ve chosen your holiday, contact the travel agent directly to negotiate. While it’s becoming more difficult, it never hurts to ask for a better deal. You can also ask a sales-savvy friend or family member to help.

Last-Minute Package Holidays: Are They Cheaper?

Booking last-minute, all-inclusive packages can be more affordable than booking a single flight or accommodation last minute. Make sure to do your research, and always choose a package holiday, as it ensures legal protection with your purchase.

As a U.S. consumer, when you buy a package holiday with flights, the travel company is legally required to hold a certificate. If the company goes into administration, you’ll be protected and won’t get stranded or lose money.

If you’re looking for an affordable last-minute holiday, prices generally drop closer to the departure date. For example, Budapest in Hungary is one of the cheapest cities for a last-minute city break in Europe, and it offers plenty of exciting experiences.

6 Leading Destinations for a Last-Minute Holiday

1. Budapest, Hungary: The capital city of Hungary is perfect for a last-minute city break. Enjoy its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and traditional dishes like goulash and stew soup.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Known for its canals, tulip fields, and art museums, Amsterdam is ideal for a last-minute holiday. Enjoy a canal boat tour or visit famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum.
3. Ireland: Consider Ireland for a last-minute getaway. Relax with a spa retreat in Kerry, Mayo, or Donegal. For a slice of Irish culture, visit Dublin for live music in traditional pubs.
4. France: France offers a variety of experiences, from camping in Normandy to enjoying a family vacation on the south coast. Many campsites include kid-friendly amenities, water parks, and restaurants.
5. Northern Europe: Explore Baltic countries like Denmark, Finland, Poland, Lithuania, and Estonia for a cooler, off-the-beaten-path vacation. These destinations offer scenic beauty, unique wildlife, and fascinating history.
6. Germany: Germany is a great option for a last-minute holiday!

With these tips and destinations, you’re sure to plan an unforgettable last-minute vacation this summer.