The Art of the Spontaneous Getaway: 5 Tips for Planning a Last-Minute Vacation

There’s something thrilling about packing a bag and heading out the door on a whim, but pulling out a last-minute getaway can be a little stressful, to say the least.

The good news is that some of the best trips happen when you least expect them. Last-minute travel just requires a slightly different approach than planning months in advance.

5 Tips for a Stress-Free Last-Minute Breakaway

Whether you feel like heading out into the wilderness or you want to book a last-minute cruise, spontaneous vacations are totally doable, even if you’re used to planning way ahead.

1. Be Flexible with Destination and Dates

Keeping an open mind about where you want to go makes it easier to find affordable and available options. Being flexible with your dates also helps, as the best last-minute deals may not fit in with the exact dates you had in mind.

Even if you’re not too fussed about budget, picking somewhere that doesn’t require half a day of travel makes sense when you’re working with limited time. You want to spend your precious days off relaxing, not sitting in airports.

2. Download the Apps

If it wasn’t for technology, last-minute would look a lot more daunting. Nowadays, dozens of apps and websites, such as Hopper and HotelTonight, specialize in deals on flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities.

Some apps even offer mobile-only discounts, giving you an extra edge when you’re booking on the go.

Fare trackers can also be a big help, as they keep your finger on the trigger when there are price drops and flash deals.

3. Pack Smart and Light

In terms of what to pack, stick to clothing you can mix and match, quick-dry fabrics, and compact toiletries.

Better yet, have a go-bag or a travel essentials packing list ready, so that as soon as you find a good deal, you can pretty much head straight out the door.

Overall, when it comes to packing, keep it light. It saves time, and you get to avoid excess baggage fees.

4. Keep Transportation Options Open

If you’re going to vacation on the fly, it’s best not to have your mind set on one particular type of transport. Cars, trains, planes, and cruise ships should all be options if you truly want to make a getaway happen.

Driving is probably the best choice for last-minute trips, but it can make the journey longer, especially if your destination is a few hours away. Trains and flights often have next-day or standby discounts that work in your favor when booking late.

And if you stay in a city that’s not far from a cruise port, a ship is an ideal mode of transport.

5. Start with the Essentials

Being too rigid with your plans is what usually ends up making a last-minute breakaway a potential nightmare. Remember, it’s about the experience, not perfection.

When you don’t have a lot of time to spare, just focus on booking the essentials. As long as you have a way to reach your destination and a place to sleep, you can figure out the rest as you go.

Embracing a Sense of Adventure

Last-minute means having a little fun, exploring options you’ve never considered before, and going along for the ride. Because chances are, it’s going to be one of your most memorable trips yet.

Just book your travel and lodging, keep a packed bag ready, and let the rest fall into place.