'How To Get The Best Deal' Guides

Tuesday, April 1st 2025

"I'm a travel junkie who's hooked on deals from YYC." - Chris Myden


Visas | Tagged Posts

2016
22
August
Should we wait until the last minute to book our spontaneous getaway?

Question:

Profile picture of Sharon

Sharon

My husband and I would like to sneak away late October for a week in the sun. We are all about a good deal. Is it beneficial to book something a week or less in advance if we're not picky where we go? My husband wants to go to the airport one day with a backpack and see where the plane will take us!! Is that possible??

Humans say...

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Ken

Great idea, but limited by need for visas in many places.

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Sharon

Good point

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Alethea

And it would mean paying super high prices for flights. Flights are always cheapest 3 weeks to 1 month out. Try tripcentral.ca

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Sharon

THanks Alethea!!!!

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Cathy

I've heard that it is no longer possible to do that.

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Frank

considering that most flights are overbooked now like the US your taking your chances...and if you do find something going to cost you big time.....check with google flights ahead of time and see for your self. Just pick a flight for today or tomorrow

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Sharon

That would be a good idea. Never thought of it. Ha!

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Larissa

google flights has a discover destinations feature that might be up your alley…you punch in your dates, a continent you have in mind or any interests you have in your travels (beaches, shopping, food) and it'll give you a selection of places and prices for flights during that time. sky scanner (a website & app) has a search everywhere feature as well…just punch in your general dates. happy hunting!

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Serena

We have always had luck buying packages from a week before to up to three weeks prior. There are lots of search engines and once we found the deal we buy either through an agent or the airline directly. Lots of options if you're not set on a specific location/resort.....tripcentral.ca or triplink.ca are our go to sites

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Chris

http://www.yycdeals.com/travel-booking-myths-that-just...
^^ See Myth #1 and #2
Myth #1 - "You can just show up at the airport and get a great deal on a flight! It's called flying standby!"
Myth #2 - "You should wait until the last minute to buy your flight, that's when the best deals are!"
YYCDEALS.COM
Travel Booking Myths That Just Won't Die

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Michelle

true story - I live in Chile and had to get back to Canada when my dad passed away - air canada's bereavement quote over the phone was thousands more than the price I found online. I was advised by the AC employee - book it.

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Lori

Michelle pretty common. Sometimes the bereavement fairs will benefit a person but often you can find a better pricing just booking like normal (same has happened to me within Canada).

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Ev

There was a flight deal on west jet to Costa rica at that time. Not sure if that fits your definition of cheap.

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Sharon

I will check thanks!

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Sharon

I just spoke with my contact in CR. She says it pours rain in the afternoons. Don't come in October

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Holly

One day I plan to book the next flight deal Chris posts on YYC deals, wherever it is! You could do that!

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Michelle

i like that idea

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Sharon

Thanks Holly!

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Sharon

You guys are all so smart!! Glad I posted!!

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Jim

RIU Jalisco in PV Mexico awsome place,,,cheap

Profile picture of Sharon

Sharon

Been there too Jim. Super spot!!

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Jim

Sitting at $940 all incl right now,,might drop some more

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Jim

Been there 5 times,,awsome place

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Jim

Oct 21st or 23rd

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Jim

thru sunwing out of YYC

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Sandra

Work for the airlines - book online - cheaper than booking with us at the airport - always! Also advise you to book directly with the airline - then if there are any last minute issues with your booking - we can help you at the airport - if it's booked through a travel agent or an online company you have a greater chance of missing your flight because we often can't help you with booking problems... As far as visas - not required in a lot of common sun destinations but always check first... Good luck and have fun!

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Sharon

Thank you so much Sandra!


A.I. says...

AI Profile Pic

Spontaneous Vacation Planning: Last-Minute Getaways

If you're the type of couple who thrives on spontaneity and loves a good deal, then planning a last-minute getaway might be the perfect adventure for you. While booking a week or less in advance can be risky, it can also lead to some incredible savings on flights and accommodations.

Booking Last-Minute Flights and Hotels

Airlines and hotels often offer significant discounts for last-minute bookings to fill up their unsold inventory. By being flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can take advantage of these deals and potentially save a bundle.

However, it's important to keep in mind that availability may be limited, and you might need to be prepared to travel on less desirable dates or to less popular destinations. Additionally, you'll have less time to research and plan your trip, which can be both exciting and challenging.

Winging It: The Spontaneous Airport Adventure

Your husband's idea of showing up at the airport with a backpack and letting the airline decide your destination is certainly an adventurous approach. While it's theoretically possible, it's important to consider a few factors:

  • Airlines typically don't sell last-minute tickets at the airport counter anymore, so you'll need to book online or through a travel agent.
  • Availability and pricing can change rapidly, so you may not get the best deal by waiting until the last minute.
  • You'll need to be extremely flexible with your travel dates, destinations, and accommodations.
  • It's essential to have the necessary travel documents (passports, visas, etc.) in order, as you may end up traveling internationally.

If you're up for the challenge and willing to embrace the element of surprise, this approach can lead to some truly memorable experiences. Just be prepared for the unexpected and remember to prioritize your safety and comfort.

The Bottom Line

Last-minute travel planning can be a great way to snag deals and embark on spontaneous adventures, but it requires flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Whether you choose to book a week or less in advance or wing it at the airport, the key is to approach it with an open mind and a spirit of adventure. Happy travels!



2014
23
April
Do Canadian citizens need visas for Japan, Philippines, Singapore, Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Cambodia, and Thailand?

Read more



2014
8
March
Is October/November a good time to backpack Asia? Where to start for a budget-friendly trip?

Read more



   










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