Whether your plans changed suddenly or you’re embracing spontaneous travel, last-minute hotel bookings don’t have to mean sky-high prices. With the right strategies—and a few reliable tools—you can find great rooms at surprisingly reasonable rates. In fact, some travelers save more by booking late, especially if hotels are eager to fill empty rooms.

Here’s how to secure a quality last-minute hotel stay without blowing your budget.

Use Apps and Websites Built for Last-Minute Travel

Several platforms specialize in last-minute hotel inventory, offering same-day or next-day deals with steep discounts.

• HotelTonight is one of the most popular apps for finding discounted last-minute hotel rooms. It’s available in most major cities and focuses on vetted properties with unsold rooms.

• Priceline Express Deals offer reduced rates on unnamed hotels, revealing the property after booking.

• Hotwire also features “Hot Rate” hotels, where prices are slashed in exchange for some booking flexibility.

• Expedia and Booking.com often release mobile-exclusive deals for same-day stays, particularly for hotels looking to boost occupancy.

Look for Price Drops on the Day of Check-In

Many hotels adjust pricing dynamically. As check-in time approaches and unsold rooms remain, they may lower rates to attract last-minute guests. You can monitor price changes using Google Hotels or tools like Trivago and Kayak.

Tip: Start checking prices in the morning and refresh periodically. Discounts often appear in the late afternoon when properties reassess inventory.

Join a Hotel Loyalty Program for Perks and Flexible Rates

Even when booking last-minute, joining programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, or World of Hyatt can provide lower member-only rates, easier cancellation policies, and faster check-in through mobile apps.

These programs also help you earn points for future stays—even on bookings made just hours before arrival.

Stack Rewards with Cashback and Discount Tools

You can further reduce your last-minute booking cost by using cashback portals or discounted gift cards.

• Rakuten and Ibotta often offer cashback on hotel bookings made through their affiliate links.

• Fluz allows you to purchase hotel brand gift cards—like Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott—with instant cashback, even for exact amounts.

For example, if you book a Hilton hotel and pay using a gift card from Fluz, you can earn cashback with a Hilton gift card while still earning loyalty points from the stay. This tactic turns a last-minute expense into an opportunity for rewards.

Be Flexible With Your Hotel Choice

If you’re open to different neighborhoods or room types, you’ll find more competitive rates. Look beyond the city center or major tourist districts—hotels in business areas often offer better weekend rates due to lower demand.

Also consider boutique or independently owned properties. These hotels may not be listed on every third-party platform but often offer direct booking deals, especially close to the check-in window.

Avoid Pitfalls with Last-Minute Booking

• Check cancellation policies carefully. Some last-minute rates are non-refundable.

• Read recent reviews. Fast decisions shouldn’t mean poor choices—use platforms like Tripadvisor for honest guest feedback.

• Call the hotel directly. Sometimes they’ll match or beat online prices and clarify fees in advance.

Conclusion

Last-minute doesn’t have to mean last resort. By combining loyalty programs, discount booking apps, and platforms like Fluz to buy a Marriott gift card online or get rewards with a Hyatt gift card, you can turn even a rushed hotel booking into a savvy travel move.

Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or a little of both—smart tools and flexible planning can help you sleep well without overspending.