3 tips for getting the best last-minute package deals

Looking to save big on your next vacation? Here are a few tips to booking a last-minute package that could save you some serious bucks on an upcoming getaway.

It is extremely unlikely you will find last-minute packages during peak travel times, such as the winter holidays or spring break.

• In fact, if you do wait until the last minute during these times, it's much more likely that you will be paying twice as much as those who booked in advance.
• On the other hand, if you're travelling off-season, such as the back-to-school months of September and October, there may be a variety of last-minute deals waiting for you.

The biggest savings on last-minute travel are to be found in packages, not in flight tickets alone.

• This is because travel agencies and major hotel chains will often buy up flights when they are inexpensive to pair them with hotel room deals when vacancy levels are high.
• Travel sites often have last-minute packages that can save you up to 70 per cent, provided you are flexible enough to take whatever hotel deal is being offered with the flight.

Apps are revolutionizing the way travel is booked.

• Some apps immediately scans all departures for any given airport within the next 24 hours to find travellers the best deals available.
• Others allow users to search a wide database of last-minute travel packages taking off in a few days rather than immediately.

Flexibility is the key to saving big on travel with last-minute packages. With some patience, you can get a great deal on travel for a quiet weekend away for two, or a trip for the whole family!