Whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend escape or a well deserved long vacation, one of the most common concerns travellers ask is how far in advance should they book their accommodations. The answer is determined by a variety of circumstances, including the destination, season, type of accommodation and budget. Getting the timing right, could mean the difference between an ideal stay and a last minute rush.
In this blog, we will go over the optimal booking times, to help you get the greatest bargains and minimise unneeded stress. Especially, if you’re looking for luxury accommodation in Cairns, Queensland or other high demand destinations.
Peak vs. Off Peak Seasons
The timing of your booking is heavily influenced by whether you are travelling during peak season. Peak periods in popular destinations such as Cairns, Queensland, include school holidays, public holidays, and the dry season (May to October). It’s recommended to plan 3 to 6 months ahead of time, especially if you’re seeking for luxury hotels or family friendly resorts. Off peak travel offers greater flexibility, although it is still advisable to plan at least four to eight weeks in advance.
Type of Accommodation
Booking habits vary depending on the type of lodging. Hostels and cheap hotels, can frequently be booked last minute, with little price variation. However, premium accommodations in Cairns, QLD, boutique hotels and one of a kind stays, such as eco resorts and lodges tend to sell out sooner, especially those with restricted availability or exclusive offers. For them, two to four months’ notice is optimal.
Event Driven Bookings
Local events such as festivals, sports competitions, and conferences can cause lodging rates to skyrocket as availability disappears. If your vacation coincides with a large event in the area, book as soon as the dates are confirmed, which is typically six months or more in advance. For example, Cairns has a number of large scale events such as the Ironman and the Reef Festival, which attract thousands of tourists.
Booking Flights First?
Many travellers wonder whether to book flights or accommodation first. In general, book your flights first especially for foreign or long haul trips. When you have your specific dates, book your lodging. However, if you have your sights set on a specific luxury accommodation in Cairns, QLD, you should verify availability before confirming your flights.
Flexibility Pays Off
If your travel dates or location are flexible, you can take advantage of last minute offers. Apps and booking portals frequently provide discounts for unfilled rooms within a week of the visit. However this method does not work well for high end or distant lodgings with limited capacity.
Using Cancellation Policies to Your Advantage
Many booking sites now provide free cancellation and flexible rebooking. This enables tourists to book early, and change their itinerary as needed. For peace of mind, especially when booking far in advance, select motels with clear and fair cancellation policies.
Conclusion
In reality, there is no universal solution to how far in advance you should book lodging, but preparing ahead usually provides you more options, and lower pricing. If you want to stay in popular areas or premium accommodations in Cairns, Queensland, you should book at least three months in advance. Whether you’re looking for a bargain or the perfect seaside property, a little planning can help make your trip relaxing and pleasurable.
