Booking a hotel at the right time can make a significant difference in the price you pay. Many travelers wonder whether there’s a “best time of day to book hotel” for discounted rates. The truth is that while timing can influence hotel prices, it’s not just about when you book—it’s about understanding key factors that drive pricing, such as demand, availability, and market trends. In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect hotel pricing and provide actionable tips on how to find the best time of day to book hotel rooms for the best rates.
Key Factors That Affect Hotel Pricing
Before we dive into the specific times of day to book, it’s important to understand the key factors that impact hotel prices. These include demand, supply, timing, and the type of booking method you use.
Demand and Supply
The demand for hotel rooms fluctuates based on the time of year, special events, and local circumstances. When demand is high (for example, during peak seasons or around big events), hotel prices typically increase. Conversely, during off-peak seasons, hotels often lower their rates to attract guests. Understanding these fluctuations will help you identify when prices are likely to be lower.
Timing and Booking Lead Time
How far in advance you book plays a crucial role in the cost of your stay. Booking in advance, especially for popular destinations, can help you lock in lower rates. Conversely, last-minute bookings may offer discounted prices as hotels try to fill empty rooms. However, this isn’t always guaranteed, so knowing when to book for the best price is essential.
Booking Method
The platform you use to book your hotel can also influence the price. Third-party booking sites often offer exclusive discounts, but hotels may reserve their best prices for direct bookings. The choice of booking method is another important factor to consider when searching for the best time of day to book a hotel.
Best Time of Day to Book Hotel for Discounted Rates
Now that we understand the factors affecting hotel prices, let’s explore the best time of day to book a hotel. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are some strategies to help you secure a better deal.
Book in the Late Evening
A common recommendation is to book a hotel in the late evening. By this time, hotels have a clearer view of their occupancy levels for the next day. If the hotel hasn’t filled all its rooms by late evening, you may be able to snag a discounted rate. Hotel prices tend to fluctuate throughout the day based on demand, and as the night progresses, the chances of getting a lower price increase.
However, keep in mind that this strategy may not always work, especially for highly popular hotels or during peak seasons. If the hotel is nearly fully booked, prices could be higher in the evening, as there are fewer rooms left.
Book Early in the Morning
On the flip side, booking a hotel in the early morning hours might also yield discounts, especially for last-minute reservations. Some hotels adjust their prices in the morning, offering deals on rooms that have not yet been booked. In these cases, booking early in the day can help you get the best rate.
However, the key to booking early in the morning is being flexible. The room you want may be gone by the time you book, or the price may still be too high depending on demand. This approach is riskier and may require more persistence to find a deal.
Book Midweek (Tuesday to Thursday)
While the time of day is important, the day of the week you book also affects pricing. Generally, midweek days (Tuesday to Thursday) offer the best rates for hotels. Weekends tend to see higher prices due to increased demand from both leisure and business travelers. Booking your stay during the week, when demand is lower, can save you money.
Additionally, booking midweek gives you more flexibility, as hotels are less likely to be fully booked. It’s a great strategy for avoiding higher weekend rates, especially if your travel dates are flexible.
Book in Advance
One of the best ways to secure a discounted hotel rate is to book well in advance. Hotels often offer lower prices for early bookings to ensure they fill their rooms ahead of time. Typically, booking a hotel around 21 days in advance can give you the best chance of getting a good deal.
If you wait too long, especially for popular destinations, prices can rise significantly as the check-in date approaches. However, some last-minute deals may pop up closer to your travel dates, particularly if you're flexible with your booking.
Last-Minute Deals
For those willing to take a chance, last-minute hotel bookings can sometimes offer big savings. As the check-in date nears, hotels may drop prices to fill empty rooms. Apps and websites like HotelTonight or Booking.com can help you find last-minute discounts.
However, there’s a risk involved. Popular hotels or events in high-demand destinations may not have rooms available at the last minute, leaving you with fewer options. For spontaneous travelers, last-minute deals may work, but it’s not the most reliable strategy for everyone.
How to Find Cheap Last-Minute Flights and Hotel Deals
If you’re looking to book both flights and hotels, the same timing strategies can apply. For example, booking flights and hotels together on platforms like Expedia or Kayak might lead to better discounts. When booking last-minute, package deals can often provide savings compared to booking separately.
Another approach is to use fare comparison tools and set price alerts. Websites like Skyscanner for flights and Trivago for hotels let you compare prices and receive notifications when rates drop.
The Cheapest Time to Book a Hotel
If your goal is to find the cheapest time to book a hotel, you should focus on a combination of factors:
- Booking in Advance: Aim for booking around three weeks before your trip to lock in the lowest rates.
- Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid booking during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Off-peak months such as late fall or winter (excluding holidays) often provide the best rates.
- Midweek Booking: Choose Tuesdays or Wednesdays for your hotel stay, as weekdays typically have lower prices.
- Late Evening or Early Morning: Depending on the hotel, late evening or early morning can offer discounts, especially if the hotel is trying to fill empty rooms.
When to Book a Hotel for the Best Price?
In conclusion, the best time of day to book a hotel depends on a variety of factors, including when you book, where you stay, and how flexible your travel plans are. Whether you’re booking well in advance or waiting for last-minute deals, understanding hotel pricing patterns can help you secure a better rate.
Ultimately, booking early during off-peak seasons and midweek days can provide significant savings. Experimenting with booking times—such as late evening or early morning—can help you find additional discounts. Stay flexible, and don’t hesitate to compare prices across various platforms to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal.
By keeping these strategies in mind, you can navigate the complexities of hotel pricing and secure a discounted rate for your next stay.
